"Paleo-Discovery Digs"

Program Overview

Judith Gap, Montana, High School Expedition, June 2010

Thank you for inquiring about our Paleo-Discovery Digs! When you join us, your time will be spent delving into the science of paleontology. Participants will learn basic skills for fossil collection, and gain the background knowledge that Paleontologists use to interpret these fossils. No prior experience is necessary.

The goals of our dig programs are as follows:

Montana students dig in Lewis Shale Formation

Your week will be spent experiencing the various dig sites we offer in Wyoming. One day may be spent searching for ocean creatures and the next day may be spent looking for T-Rex and Triceratops. We have many options and like to design our outings around our vacationist's interests and goals.

Director of Paleontology Sean Smith will be your instructor along with field personnel that are present to guide and help you wherever necessary. They bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience, so be prepared to stimulate your mind.

Fran Swensgard: Superintendent; David Baird: Board Member/Parent; Nathan and Shane Baird, Zach Hajenga, John Miller: Students; Stuart McCrary: Paleon Staff

Our area is considered high plains short grass plains, with semi-arid environment. Our weather is highly unpredictable and you should be prepared for temperatures up to 100 degrees during the day, and cool nights. The elevation in Glenrock is 5,009 feet, so be aware that the air is thinner and sun more intense at higher elevations. Participants should be able to walk up to 2 miles on uneven, hilly terrain. You should also expect to bend, sit and stoop for long periods of time. We recommend children be at least in middle school, for the interest, physical ability and attention span required. Of course, high school and college students are given more challenging sites and tasks, and can learn a great deal about paleontology.

Cameras are welcome and encouraged to record your experience with us. Wyoming is famous for its spectacular scenery and wildlife. You will likely see deer and antelope as well as a variety of birds and other wildlife.

Since the Glenrock Paleon Museum is an education and research facility, it is important that all identifiable fossils found at the dig sites remain with the museum for further study. The selection of dig sites and length of time spent at any site depend on many things, weather primary among them, and are at the sole discretion of the Paleon staff member directing the dig.

Topography is quite steep

The cost for this week long experience is $1,200.00 per person which includes local transportation, hotel rooms, and meals. Meals other than those provided and alcoholic beverages are not included (alcohol is prohibited at the dig sites or in the museum). While in Glenrock, meals will be provided by the Paisley Shawl, premiere restaurant of the Historic Hotel Higgins.

A $200.00 per person non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration with the remaining balance due 4 weeks prior to the dig date.

We are excited that you are considering allowing us to show you the fascinating world of Paleontology. We look forward to teaching you about Wyoming's natural history, while showing you a behind the scene and hands on look at the excavation and preparation of the fossils we find. We certainly hope you will join us for this out of the ordinary experience.

Collection by Montana Team of Baculites grandis

Please feel free to contact us wiith any questions you may have regarding our programs. You can reach us at 1-307-436-2667, Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Thank you for your interest and we look forward to seeing you.

The weeks that are available this year are;