Although most of the rush took place in the gold fields of northern California , the San Gabriel mountains have been the source of an estimated $13 million in gold. The East Fork region, 30 miles north of Azusa, is also home to a small group of modern prospectors who comprise a small community along the river that flows deep within the Angeles National Forest. Most notable perhaps is Bernie McGrath, the unofficial "mayor" of the group. He's our guide to the river and its denizens.
What draws the modern prospector? Is it the thrill of the hunt? Its evolution into a primarily recreational activity? Does anyone really make a living off of what they find? With the price of gold hovering near $1000 this year, does that mean there's a modern day rush?
We also speak with weekend warriors who are coming up en masse to mine for riches you would think were long gone.
RELATED RESOURCES:
Camp Williams Resort and Campground in East Fork, CA
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Hi,
I just watched this segment and wanted to say thanks for giving some exposure to small scale prospecting. I have been working on a program for homeless veterans (WOLF Camp) and the core idea of the operation is to teach veterans about the independent earning potential of small scale prospecting/mining. Here is a couple of links to articles I've written on my Newsvine column that outline the program and about myself:
VIL-OP/WOLF Camp program outline-
http://robertlyn-schultz.newsvine.com/_news/2008/07/24/1693312-veterans-independent-living-operation
A piece about a bit of my personal philosophy-
http://robertlyn-schultz.newsvine.com/_news/2008/07/25/1696353-embracing-the-temporary-nature-of-life
I would be happy to hear any thoughts about this idea from anyone.
Thanks again for the segment.
Yule Blessings everyone
Aloha