Are you fascinated with watching TV programs and online videos of fossil discoveries? Why not join our fossil (paleontology) field program and experience the excitement first hand. Join museum staff as we explore the beautiful Uinta Basin and Mountains near Vernal Utah for dinosaurs, mammals, plants, insects, and other fossils (depending upon available sites). Participants will work along with experts in the field of paleontology to collect specimens for the museum.
Who can participate
Anyone 16 years old or over, individuals ages 16-18 needs to be accompanied by a paying adult legal guardian.
Cost
$500 per person (for 5 days); includes expert leadership, surveying for new fossil sites and practical experience in collecting fossils, and possible preparation of fossils. Equipment used in collecting/preparation will be provided. Registration is limited to 15 participants/week. We accept cash, checks, or credit cards, and payment must be received by April prior to the start date.
When
Summer 2021 – Dates to be announced
What Participants must provide
Lodging, meals, transportation (high clearance vehicles recommended) to sites, gas for the vehicle, personal items such as work gloves, hiking boots, sunscreen, bug repellent, water containers, sunglasses, hats, coolers, etc.
Program experiences details
The paleontology program will include, but not limited to, exploring for and collecting fossils (using standard professional techniques) for the museum, under adverse field conditions. Hiking in mountainous or badland terrain, where steep and rocky slopes exist will be part of the program. Bugs, hot temperatures, dusty environments, unpredictable weather, and other natural elements will be encountered. Field techniques may include the excavation, collecting, and documentation of fossils. Heavy lifting, use of chisels and hammers, and operation of power tools are part of the excavation process. Participants will leave and return to the museum each day.
The lab portion of the program (if held) may involve small power tools and the application of adhesives and consolidants. Dust and rock debris may occur due to preparation work. Participants may lift heavy objects over 20 lbs using equipment or by hand. Intermittent periods of sitting, bending, or standing may be possible.
How to sign up or questions: Contact the museum at johnfoster@utah.gov or stevesroka@utah.gov or 435-789-3799, 496 E. Main, Vernal Utah 84078.
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