As metal detecting continues to gain popularity, it is essential for enthusiasts to adopt responsible digging practices. Proper digging techniques not only minimize damage to the environment but also preserve the integrity of the items we find.
The objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive guide on proper digging best practices to prevent damage to discovered targets and minimize ground disturbance to avoid further regulations that could hinder metal detecting activities.
By promoting these guidelines, the metal detecting community can work together to ensure the long-term sustainability and legality of the hobby we all enjoy.
Minimizing Impact to the Ground
Reducing ground disturbance is essential to maintain the integrity of the environment and ensure the sustainability of metal detecting as a hobby. By minimizing the impact on the ground, detectorists can preserve natural habitats, prevent soil erosion, and maintain a positive public image of the hobby.
Why should you care about public perception? Because maintaining this positive perception helps to avoid additional restrictions or regulations that could be imposed due to environmental concerns.
As you learn more about the rules and regulations impacting metal detecting, you will quickly realize it’s not a ban on a metal detector that shuts off a location. Parks and public areas will often have laws and regulations against “disturbing the ground”, “displacement of soil”, or the “use of a digging device/shovel”.
With this in mind, it is clear that the damage a detectorist leaves behind is the primary culprit giving our hobby its negative public image and causing additional restrictions.
Tools and equipment for minimizing ground impact
Specialize Shovels and Trowels for Metal Detecting
Using small shovels and trowels specifically designed for metal detecting can help minimize ground disturbance. These tools allow for more precise and controlled digging, reducing the risk of unnecessary damage to the surrounding area.
This is often accomplished by having a narrow head to improve control over ground penetration. Some options will also have a serrated edge to help cut through roots.
Handheld diggers
Handheld diggers, also known as digging knives or serrated diggers, are another useful tool for minimizing ground impact. These diggers often have a serrated edge for cutting through roots and soil, making it easier to create clean and precise cuts while extracting the target.
Probe tools
Probe tools, such as metal detecting probes or screwdrivers, can be used to locate and extract shallow targets without causing significant ground disturbance. These tools are particularly useful in areas with sensitive vegetation or where minimal impact is crucial.
Pinpointers
Pinpointers are handheld devices designed to help metal detectorists precisely locate their targets before and while digging. By using a pinpointer, detectorists can minimize the size of the hole they need to dig and reduce the overall impact on the ground.
Pinpointers can also help prevent damage to the target by reducing the likelihood of accidentally striking it with a digging tool.
Techniques for minimizing ground impact
Plug cutting
Plug cutting involves removing a small, intact section of turf or soil (known as a plug) to access the target beneath. Once the target is extracted, the plug can be carefully replaced, leaving minimal evidence of digging. This technique is ideal for maintaining the appearance of grassy areas and reducing the impact on the environment.
Overlapping flap technique
The overlapping flap technique involves cutting a small, semi-circular flap of turf or soil around the target area. The flap is then gently lifted, allowing access to the target without completely detaching the flap from the ground. After extracting the target, the flap can be carefully folded back and pressed down, leaving minimal disturbance to the area.
Test hole method
The test hole method involves digging a small hole adjacent to the target area and using a probe tool or a small trowel to gently push the soil towards the hole, gradually exposing the target. This technique minimizes ground disturbance by keeping the digging area small and controlled. Once the target is retrieved, the hole can be easily filled, and the surface restored.
Preventing Damage to the Target
Preserving the integrity of discovered items is crucial for several reasons. Undamaged items are more valuable, both in terms of their monetary worth and historical significance. Furthermore, maintaining the condition of discovered targets helps to promote a positive image of metal detecting as a responsible and respectful hobby.
Pinpointing the target’s exact location
Before digging, it is essential to pinpoint the target’s exact location as accurately as possible. This step reduces the risk of accidentally damaging the item during excavation. Many metal detectors come equipped with built-in pinpointing features, or separate handheld pinpointers can be used to achieve greater precision.
Safe excavation practices
Careful digging around the target
When excavating the target, it is essential to dig carefully and methodically, avoiding contact with the item itself. Begin by digging a wider hole around the target area, gradually working inward while monitoring the metal detector’s signals. This approach helps to prevent accidental damage to the target by keeping tools and hands away from the item until it is fully exposed.
Using appropriate tools to avoid scratching or bending the target
Choose tools that are suitable for the task at hand and minimize the risk of damaging the target. For instance, use a plastic trowel or probe instead of a metal one when digging around delicate items, as plastic tools are less likely to scratch or bend the target. Similarly, using tools with rounded edges can help prevent accidental damage to the found item.
Handling and cleaning the target properly
Once the target is exposed and removed from the ground, handle it with care to avoid causing any damage. Avoid using excessive force or abrasive cleaning methods, as these can damage the target’s surface. Instead, gently clean the item using a soft brush or cloth and, if necessary, consult experts or online resources for guidance on the best cleaning techniques for specific materials and artifacts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ideal Digging Process
Scanning and pinpointing the target
- Slowly sweep your metal detector over the search area, maintaining a consistent speed and height above the ground.
- Listen for changes in the detector’s tone or visual indicators on the display, signaling a potential target.
- Once a potential target is detected, use the built-in pinpointing feature or a separate handheld pinpointer to determine the target’s exact location and depth.
Choosing the appropriate digging technique
- Assess the surrounding environment and the type of surface you will be digging in (e.g., grass, soil, sand).
- Determine the target’s depth based on the metal detector’s readings and your pinpointer.
- Select the most suitable digging technique for the given situation (e.g., plug cutting for grassy areas, overlapping flap technique for more sensitive environments, or test hole method for shallow targets).
Executing the chosen digging technique
- Gather the appropriate tools, such as a small shovel, trowel, handheld digger, or probe tool.
- Follow the steps for the chosen digging technique, ensuring you work carefully and methodically to minimize ground disturbance and prevent damage to the target.
- Continuously monitor the metal detector’s signals or use your pinpointer to help guide your excavation and ensure you are working in the correct location.
Safely extracting the target
- Once the target is exposed, carefully remove it from the ground using your hands or appropriate tools, taking care not to scratch, bend, or otherwise damage the item.
- If the target is fragile or delicate, use extra caution when extracting it, and consider using additional protective measures such as gloves or soft padding.
Filling in and restoring the excavation site
- After retrieving the target, begin filling in the hole or replacing the plug or flap by carefully placing the removed soil or turf back into its original position.
- Tamp down the soil or turf gently to ensure it is level with the surrounding ground and secure.
- If necessary, clean up any excess soil or debris around the excavation site to leave the area looking as undisturbed as possible.
Importance of Responsible Digging Practices
Environmental preservation
Responsible digging practices play a critical role in preserving the environment. By minimizing ground disturbance, metal detectorists can reduce soil erosion, protect vegetation, and maintain the integrity of wildlife habitats. Following conscientious digging techniques ensures that the hobby remains sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Protection of historical and cultural heritage
Many items discovered through metal detecting hold significant historical and cultural value. By employing proper digging techniques, detectorists can prevent damage to these artifacts, preserving them for future generations. Responsible excavation helps maintain the historical record and enables researchers and historians to study and learn from these valuable finds.
Positive public perception
Adhering to responsible digging practices contributes to a positive public perception of metal detecting as a legitimate and respectable hobby. Demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of historical artifacts helps to counteract any negative stereotypes associated with metal detecting and fosters greater acceptance and support from the public.
Prevention of increased regulation
If metal detectorists consistently engage in irresponsible digging practices, it could lead to a negative public image and prompt authorities to impose stricter regulations or bans on metal detecting activities. By following responsible digging techniques and promoting good stewardship within the metal detecting community, enthusiasts can help to prevent the imposition of such restrictions and ensure the hobby remains accessible to all.
Building a strong and supportive community
Responsible digging practices also contribute to building a strong and supportive community of metal detectorists. By sharing knowledge, resources, and a commitment to responsible behavior, enthusiasts can foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect within the metal detecting community. This collaborative spirit can help to promote the growth, development, and enjoyment of the hobby for both current and future generations.
Final Thoughts on Digginer Best Practices
By learning the proper methods to minimize ground disturbance, and prevent damage to discovered targets we can all help ensure the long-term availability of metal detecting as a hobby.
The last thing this hobby needs is more laws and regulations that hinder metal detecting activities throughout the United States.
As metal detecting continues to grow in popularity, it is vital for our community to adopt and promote responsible digging practices in one form or another. By being mindful of the impact their activities have on the environment, the historical record, and public perception, metal detectorists can help secure the future of this exciting and rewarding pastime.
It is the responsibility of every enthusiast to follow these guidelines and encourage others to do the same.