AUTHORIZATION TO CONDUCT GEOLOGICAL DATA GATHERING ACTIVITIES

As an alternative to applying for a state mineral lease, any party may apply to the commissioner for authorization to conduct geological data gathering activities on state-owned land. The applicant must meet the qualifications to hold an authorization to conduct geological data gathering activities as specified in part 6125.0410 . For the purposes of this authorization, geological data gathering activities include geophysical and geochemical activities, sampling of glacial overburden, and the sampling and drilling of bedrock, provided that any drilling and sampling of bedrock is limited to a maximum penetration of 20 feet into bedrock. Each authorization granted by the commissioner is limited to the size of one township, or portion of the township. The fee for each authorization is $100. The authorization does not grant any rights to a mineral lease and is nonexclusive.