I did call the office and they are allowing metal detectors. The thing is if you find something of value and it has a description, they are asking for you to turn it over to them. If its not claimed after a certain amount of time then they will give it back to you. its really all about the hunt any ways. I have tried this metal detecting in a lake that was drained. Be prepare to have mud all over yourself. its not easy doing. If I felt better I would try and meet you there. its a 2 hour run for me, but if you live close I would go for it. When they drained the lake in Pine Grove there was a man detecting. he showed me what he found and he had over 50 rings. Some had initials and descriptions but others had nothing. pretty sure he even made the local news. if you go you should be with someone. that mud if you get stuck, it could get ugly..Good luck to you............Pete