The optimism of Wide Bay treasure-hunters is taking a toll on the local council.

It appears that overzealous fortune-seekers have been damaging infrastructure by plunging their shovels too hastily into the earth on the wayward advice of their metal detectors.

Reports say dozens of underground irrigation pipes in the coastal town of Bargara have had to be repaired in the past week, and the Bundaberg Council says action may be taken.

Authorities are working on the theory that a modern day Jim Hawkins has identified the metal fittings on the council pipes with a metal detector, and subsequently damaged them out of eagerness to find the buried loot.

Grassed areas in council reserves have been dug up several times this week, and while the council says it is not against the hobby, it would take action against anyone found to have damaged public infrastructure.