§ 8560.4-5 - Gathering information about resources.

(a) Any person desiring to conduct any activity for purposes of gathering information about natural resources in wilderness may do so provided it is carried on in a manner compatible with the preservation of the wilderness environment. Where required by other law or regulation, such person shall obtain the necessary permits or authorizations. The authorized officer in granting such permits or authorizations shall allow such activities, subject to such restrictions as he/she may impose to insure that they are carried on in a manner compatible with the preservation of the wilderness environment. This section shall not apply to mineral prospecting under the

mining or mineral leasing laws conducted prior to the date when the mining and mineral leasing laws cease to apply to the respective component of the system. (See § 8560.4-6.)

(b) Any person desiring to use motor vehicles, motorized equipment, mechanized transport, or to land aircraft for mineral prospecting or for gathering information about resources, shall notify the Bureau in writing. No form of overland mechanical transport may be used unless approved in accordance with subparts 2920, 3045, 3209 or 3509 of this title. If a permit is required, it shall provide for the protection of public land resources, including wilderness characteristics, protection of the public and restoration of disturbed areas, and may provide for the posting of performance bonds.