DISCOVERY AND PRESERVATION OF AMERICA’S PALEONTOLOGICAL HERITAGE THROUGHOUT THE U.S. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

The fossil record preserved throughout the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) spans over 2 billion years of Earth’s history. Paleontological resources have been documented in 283 national parks and are recognized as significant resources in 74 National Natural Landmarks and 32 National Historic Landmarks. NPS fossils have been documented from geologic strata, within caves, along coastlines, and from other geologic settings. Collectively NPS fossils reflect the rich and evolving biodiversity of flora and fauna across the North American continent available for scientific research and public education.

The human dimensions of NPS fossils involve a remarkable history of discovery, collecting, research, conservation, and preservation. Active research, inventory, monitoring, and other management continues to yield globally significant fossils expanding our understanding of the scope, significance, distribution, and management issues associated with NPS fossils.

NPS fossils are managed on behalf of the American people using scientific principles, resource management practices, a variety of federal laws, policies, and practices. Formal partnerships with professional paleontologists enable the NPS to collaborate with specialists on a wide range of scientific, resource management, curation, and other fossil related needs.

Science education is fundamental to the management of NPS fossils. A wide variety of interpretive programs, media, websites, and exhibits have been developed for the public to learn about and understand fossils from our national parks and landmarks. The Junior Paleontologist Program is a popular activity for young park visitors to participate during park visits or from their homes or classrooms.

In 2009, the NPS approached the American Geosciences Institute about establishing a day during Earth Science Week dedicated to fossils and celebrating the scientific and educational values of fossils. The National Fossil Day (NFD) partnership was established and has grown to include 420 professional science and teacher organizations, museums, universities, agencies, fossil sites, amateur groups, and other entities, across the U.S., to celebrate America’s paleontological heritage. According to the American Geosciences Institute, NFD reaches millions of Americans annually.