WAMS was organized to stimulate interest in the study and collection of agates, minerals, gems and fossils, and support lapidary work, education, scientific study of natural earth sciences.
From rockhounding field trips to classes at the Center 50+ lapidary, WAMS has multiple opportunities for rockhounds of all ages and experience levels to learn new skills and share their knowledge. WAMS members in good standing have access to a private Facebook group that features educational materials as well as club announcements and field trip information.
Members and non-members can access the public Willamette Agate and Mineral Society Facebook Group which includes WAMS news and topics of interest to rockhounds. WAMS is also proud to support for the annual Prineville Rockhound Pow Wow, held in June at the Crook County Fairgrounds. Several of our members volunteer their time to help organize and staff this four day event that draws visitors from the around North America and abroad.
The Willamette Agate and Mineral Society, Inc. (WAMS) is a nonprofit organization and an Oregon Corporation, founded November, 1947. WAMS is affiliated with the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies (AFMS), the Northwest Federation of Mineralogical Societies (NFMS), the Oregon Council of Rock and Mineral Clubs, the American Lands Access Association (ALAA), and the Special Congress Representing Involved Bulletin Editors (S.C.R.I.B.E.).
Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm at the Salem Center 50+, 2615 Portland Rd NE (503-588-6303), in Salem, Oregon. Executive Board meetings are held with upcoming meetings announced at the general meeting, and all members are invited to attend. WAMS was organized to stimulate interest in the study and collection of agates, minerals, gems, and fossils, and support lapidary work, education, scientific study of natural earth sciences, and charitable purposes within the meaning of Section #501(C)(3) IRS.