Field Trips will be offered Saturday, March 25 and Sunday, March 26

Trips will be to the Sierra County Rock and Gem Society’s claim near Hatch, NM both days.

You will be able to collect barite, calcite, other beautiful rocks and minerals, and fossils. There are petroglyphs a short drive away.

Trips will depart from the Sierra County Fair Barn at 10 am. Meet there to learn about the trip, sign waivers, and convoy to the site. Carpooling is encouraged. The drive is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes each way.

Although any passenger car can drive the majority of the way to the claim, 4WD is recommended for the last half mile. The field trip leader will stop at that point to condense vehicles. Those with 4WD are encouraged to invite other attendees to share their vehicle.

For any rockhounding field trip, sturdy, closed toe shoes are a must. Long pants are recommended. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, gloves, and lunch or snacks. Bring a bucket or bag to collect your pretty rocks. This is mostly a surface collecting location, but a garden claw or trowel can be useful to dig or pry things out.

Due to the rough terrain, children must remain under close supervision at all times.

Field trips are $5 per adult. Children under 12 are free.

Please email scragssierracounty@gmail.com with any questions.