The search for gold was a major factor in attracting people to the west and northwest from the mid 1800’s to about 1900. Gold prospecting still has a vital place in the development of our natural resources AND can be done without harming nature.

      The NorthWest Mineral Prospector's Club (NWMPC) was organized to provide support for a group of people wishing to learn about minerals and prospecting and who love the outdoors.

      NWMPC has gold claims at the following locations:

• Quartzville Creek near Salem, Oregon
• Chetco River in southwest Oregon
• Copper Creek near Mt. St. Helens in Washington,
• Willow Creek in Eastern Oregon just south of Baker City
• Mollalla Recreational Area just east of Mollalla Oregon

Thus giving its members the opportunity and the right to prospect for gold and other minerals in a designated area. Many of our members have their own private claims in California, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, to which club members are periodically invited.

    NWMPC has various pieces of mining equipment available for member’s "use" and a mining library. The club sponsors monthly raffles and a "gold drawing" to encourage membership and attendance. Our members vary from the novice to the dedicated experienced miner.

     A complimentary newsletter is sent to interested guests. We feature club outings to our claims, films on prospecting, clinics on various methods of gold recovery (including electronic detection), treasure hunts, potlucks and other fun events.