We closed out the blog last week with the hint, "it involves a pan." We're thinking you have carefully studied the clues, ruled out the alternatives and determined that we will be offering gold panning this year!!!!
Nailed it!
Beginning in May this year we will be offering onsite gold panning, historical gold panning demonstrations, guided adventures and gold panning supplies!
There are several reasons Echo Adventures has decided to offer gold panning. First, the discovery of gold and the ease of placer mining are a pivotal moment in Yosemite's history. It defines that moment when history books transition for traditional, indigenous human history to western settlements. This practice has incredible historical and cultural importance that we cannot wait to share with you!
Additionally, we want to focus on the sustainability of gold panning by focusing on several factors, including the techniques used, the scale of operations, and the environmental impact.
On a small scale, gold panning can be sustainable if done responsibly and with care for the environment. This includes using non-toxic and biodegradable materials, not disturbing sensitive habitats or wildlife, and following local regulations and guidelines. In some cases, gold panning can even have a positive impact on the environment by removing trash or pollutants from the waterways.
However, large-scale gold mining or careless mineral extraction can be highly unsustainable and destructive to the environment. These operations often involve the use of heavy machinery, toxic chemicals, and the destruction of entire ecosystems. Even small scale, careless operations can cause soil erosion, water pollution, and harm to wildlife populations.
We'll be focussing on a type of panning called placer mining. Here's your word of the day: Placer mining is the mining of minerals (often precious metals, such as gold) that have accumulated in alluvial deposits, such as streams, rivers, and other waterways. The term "placer" comes from the Spanish word "placer," which means "sandbank."
Placer deposits are created when gold or other minerals are eroded from their original source and transported by water to another location where they are deposited, typically in riverbeds, streambeds, or other areas where water flow slows down. The gold in placer deposits is usually found in small particles, such as flakes or nuggets, and can be separated from the surrounding sediment using a variety of methods, but we'll focus on sustainable panning and slicing.
In closing, we are super excited to take you gold panning on your next visit to Yosemite! P.S. We don't actually have any gold in this here Yosemite Basecamp, and we DO NOT dress up in gold rush era clothing.
Gold Panning Prices:
Onsite Gold Panning: $6.00 per person
Available anytime!
Includes pan and snuffer bottle.
Keep what you find!
Child 5 years and younger free with adult admission
Video instruction included
Onsite Historic Gold Panning Demonstration and Lesson: $15.00
Every Friday at 6pm
Child 5 years and younger free with adult admission
Includes pan and snuffer bottle
Enriched pay dirt - Keep what you find!
Guided tour through Groveland's storied gold p
Demonstration on sustainable gold panning with local nugget snuffer
Sluice juice, coffee and water available during demonstration.
Pan Parties: $100.00
Private party for up to 10 people of any age - Must schedule in advance.
All rentals are included
Enriched pay dirt - Keep what you find!
Guided tour through Groveland's storied gold panning history
Demonstration on sustainable gold panning from local nugget snuffer
Sluice juice, coffee and water available during demonstration.