The one rule here is a BLM Arizona Rule, not implemented nationwide. 

• Identify proposed cache locations to the local BLM office before placing a cache

This rule would be difficult for Groundspeak to enforce as BLM lands are not identified on any nationwide map system we currently have available.  The other rules, such as archeological sites and large group permits do exist everywhere I am familiar with.

And for clarification, the BLM representative I talked to used the term “overzealous”, not me.  I merely asked if there was a change in policy and explained the situation.  All caches in that area are away from any visible archeological sites and other such restrictions.  Plus, the individual was seeking a cache, not placing a cache.

So… returning from this tangent…

Crap happens.  We will continue to work on education of the general public so this type of stuff can be reduced.

About a year ago, the bomb squad was called in for a suspicious container place in a field behind an apartment building.  The robot was sent out and the camera saw a clear container with the word “geocache” on it.  They studied the camera image a bit better the walked out and signed the logbook and added some police stickers and other SWAG.  Although there are a couple Geocachers on the Police Force, none of these officers were Geocachers.

From: az-geocaching-bounces@listserv.azgeocaching.com [mailto:az-geocaching-bounces@listserv.azgeocaching.com] On Behalf Of ShadowAce
Sent: Wednesday, April 22, 2009 9:31 PM
To: listserv@azgeocaching.com
Subject: Re: [Az-Geocaching] Yeeehaw!

Well that's interesting..

 Maybe you would be willing to contact the Arizona BLM offices and explain to them that they are wrong as well then?

http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/prog/recreation/geocache.html

BLM's Geocaching Game Rules

• Identify proposed cache locations to the local BLM office before placing a cache
• Do not place caches at archaeological sites
• Obtain a BLM permit for any competitive events, contests for prizes, paid participation, or caches hosted by commercial business
• Advise BLM if you observe any misuse or abuse of a cache location

Kind of sounds like the BLM says NOT allowed on BLM land unless they get permission to those of us who try to follow the rules.

On Wed, Apr 22, 2009 at 9:26 PM, Moose Mob <moosemob@cox.net> wrote:

 Just last week a cacher from the Bay Area confronted by an overzealous BLM Ranger “rather strongly” explained that geocaches are NOT allowed on BLM land unless they get permission.  I had a short conversation with the District Office they did apologize and that Ranger was informed of the BLM standing policy.