Just where can you use your metal detector?
Our Bounty Hunter metal detector had finally arrived and I was more excited than my kids were. Since we hadn’t given any thought to rules and regulations until we were at the park feeling a little sheepish about tearing up turf that was so perfectly manicured in search of our first find with the new metal detector. Consequently we were questioning the legalities of what we were about to do. So we jumped on the internet and searched for any rules or regulations that we could find for metal detecting Boise Idaho. Sure enough, there are rules that regulate where you can metal detect in Boise.
During our search we learned that you have to be licensed to metal detect in Boise parks. So We left the park feeling relieved that we hadn’t torn up the nice grass yet and had avoided getting into trouble. One thing was for sure! We wanted to get a license to metal detect in Boise parks. It took us quite a bit of searching to figure out where we were supposed to go to get this license.
During our search we stumbled upon Boise Park and Recreation’s policies and procedures page where we located a document outlining what was needed to acquire the metal detector license. Unfortunately, the document didn’t list any contact information regarding where to get the permit. Only after making a few phone calls were we able to acquire the information we needed.
We Were Told that Conn’s Wampum Hut provides metal detector training and issues the permits.
The Conn’s have been located at the same location for close to 50 years with the whole family involved in the metal detecting hobby. When we called ahead to schedule an appointment Pat Conn, answered the phone and gave us the information we needed. Donna Conn, 85 years old, issues the permits. She informed us that she has regular hours but you should always call ahead. She taught us how to retrieve (not dig), our finds with a flat head screwdriver. A flat head screw driver is the only tool you can use in Boise City Parks. She also gave us a great tip: by recommending we dull the ends of our screw drivers to prevent scratching a potential find.
Wheelchair bound using a modified long screwdriver, Donna Conn showed us how to roll the turf, extract the dirt, replace the disturbed grass and heel in the area. This retrieval method assures that you don’t damage the turf. With our metal detector in hand, Donna had us locate finds in her yard. She has lots of coins buried including some older ones that she lets you keep. She required us to properly retrieve three coins prior to issuing the metal detector permit. We found a couple wheat pennies that we were pretty excited about!
There is an initial fee of $10 for the permit and a $3 annual renewal fee. She assured us that she provides the training and permits as a community service and doesn’t profit from the fees. We spent about an hour and a half, some of it visiting, while we earned our permits. Our family had a great time! Donna gave us some good advice and a few perfect spots to start detecting!
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