GEOL 471/571  Field Paleontology

 

Two Weeks, Two Credits

 

 

Field Paleontology is a two-week experience that is designed to introduce students to the procedures of preserving and documenting fossil discoveries.  We emphasize the fact that fossils are information so the geologic context of fossils as well as the distribution of fossils at a given site is meticulously recorded.  Topics covered include field stabilization and excavation of fossil material, recording stratigraphic data, quarry mapping techniques, reading and interpreting topographic maps, proper documentation, and fossil systematics of each site.  Students taking the course for undergraduate credit will be graded based on their field notes, daily observations, and participation in field activities.  Graduate students will be required to conduct a follow-up research project the following fall semester. 

 

SUMMER 2024 CAMPS

 

CRETACEOUS MARINE REPTILES OF THE BELLE FOURCHE SHALE

June 17 - 28

 

Join us at scenic Belle Fourche Reservoir in western South Dakota on the edge of the Black Hills. here we will explore the outcrops of the Green Horne, Carlile and Belle Fourche formations, ho me to fossils of short-and long-necked plesiosaurs, giant bulldog fish, and ammonites.

 

MARINE REPTILES OF THE CRETACEOUS INTERIOR SEAWAY OF SOUTH DAKOTA

July 29 - August 9

 

Eighty-million years ago, during much of the Age of Dinosaurs, North America was covered by a shallow inland seaway.  Join us to help document fossil discoveries; including marine reptiles, pterosaurs, gigantic fish, sharks and baculites; while surveying along the Missouri River in central South Dakota.  Based out of Chamberlain, SD. 

 

Cost: $2250 undergraduates, $2750 graduates. Cost DOES NOT include meals or lodging.. Students are responsible for transportation to sites and for arranging lodging. Daily travel to the sites will be provided.

 

Register Online

 

For more information contact:

Dr. Darrin Pagnac

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

501 E. St. Joseph Street

Rapid City, SD 57701

(605) 394-2469

darrin.pagnac@sdsmt.edu

 
 

 

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