APPLICATION OF A PARTNERSHIP IN PALEONTOLOGY FOR BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, TEXAS

As part of a mandated inventory and monitoring program within the National Park Service, a large-scale study of paleontological resources is being initiated within Big Bend National Park. A team of resource managers and researchers will be assembled to develop a baseline paleontological study using the following criteria. First, managers need to have a basic appreciation and understanding of paleontological issues. Secondly, Park managers need partnerships with paleontologists familiar with management related issues. Though paleontological research is an objective, development of products helpful to resource managers is also a significant component of the project.

Responsibilities for the project are divided along areas of training. Researchers pursue research objectives while managers assist in logistical operations and develop criteria for products to assist park management staff.

Partnering with museum-based paleontologists provides the National Park Service additional benefits that include access to additional experienced interpretative and exhibits staff, potential development of public education programs and exhibit programs that serve to increase public awareness of NPS park units.

The basic field design for this study incorporates standard paleontological mapping and collecting methods. Extensive field notes and photographs will be taken during the surveys and hand specimens will be collected at key locations. Key sites will be recorded using a hand held GPS unit, these data will be downloaded and incorporated into a GIS. Park management will use these data for resource planning and budgeting.