Gold prospecting sees revival with price surge

The rising price of gold in the midst of economic uncertainty is resulting in a mini-revival in 19th-century-style prospecting.

The lure of $1,700 per-ounce gold is sending some Calgarians into rivers and streams with a pan, just like in the 1890s.

"It's very pretty. It sparkles. It almost sits in the pan and says here I am. I'm right here," said Lois Friesen, who speaks for the Alberta Gold Prospector's Association.

Friesen admits, though, that the retro-hobby of prospecting is no way to make a fortune. In about 20 years of panning for gold, she's found a couple of ounces, she said.

Bill Robinson, 72, who has been panning for gold for even longer, said his total haul hasn't amounted to very much.

"Oh, I don't think you would count it in the pounds. You'd count it in the ounces, probably about six or seven," he said.

Panning is mostly an excuse to spend time outside, he said.

But there is apparently money to be made outfitting would-be prospectors. Clayton Green, who sells gold panning equipment, said business is booming.

"Definitely noticed an increase in sales of gold pans this year over last, and years previous," he said.