§460y–5 Applicability of Mining Laws; Prospecting Commenced or Conducted and Mining Claims Located Subsequent to October 21, 1970, as Subject to Regulations; Patents Issued on Mining Claims Located Subsequent to October 21, 1970, as Subject to Regulations; Provisions of Regulations; Rights of Owner of Existing Valid Mining Claim as Un­affected

Summary

Federal land in the Area stays under U.S. mining laws, as long as existing valid rights are respected. Any prospecting or mining claims started after October 21, 1970 must follow reasonable rules the Secretary creates to carry out this law. Any patent (title) issued for a claim located after that date must say it is still subject to those rules. The rules must help protect scenic and aesthetic values and prevent pollution of streams and waters. The rights of owners of any existing valid mining claim are not reduced or limited.