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| Families can search for dinosaur fossils as part of the Dig For A Day program. | ||
Dig For A Day
Discover, collect, and document Jurassic dinosaur fossils with technicians of the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. After a 15-minute van trip to the dig site, you are introduced to the dig sites and activities fossil stabilization and excavation, quarry mapping, and documentation. Experienced staff are on hand to answer questions and provide assistance.
The Wyoming Dinosaur Center quarries are located on the Warm Springs Ranch in Thermopolis, Wyoming. The fossil-bearing beds overlook the picturesque red hills at the northern end of the Wind River Canyon. The rocks were deposited during the Late Jurassic Epoch (154-144 million years ago) and are part of what today is known as the Morrison Formation. This Formation has yielded one of the richest dinosaur fauna in the world.
In 1993, the first dinosaur fossils were discovered in a thick mudstone layer on the Warm Springs Ranch. Many locations have since been identified. Excavation work at our two main quarries has yielded well-preserved sauropod material (Camarasaurus and Diplodocus).
As a participant, you help with current scientific research designed to provide valuable information about the environment in which dinosaurs lived about 145 million years ago. You gain hands-on experience on one of our current sites. All activities are designed to assist in current scientific research projects. These projects will provide valuable information concerning the environment that existed in the Thermopolis area.
Schedule of Activity
- 8:00 AM - (Wyoming Dinosaur Center) Brief orientation on geology and paleontology of ranch; digging and data collection procedures.
- 9:00 AM - Van leaves for dig site.
- Noon - Lunch break on site.
- 12:30 PM - Resume activity.
- 4:00 PM - Complete site work and documentation. Check in equipment. Van returns to Wyoming Dinosaur Center.
Note: If needed, you may return to the Center earlier on one of the hourly tour buses.
Who may participate
- Individuals age 18 and over, in good physical condition (work can be strenuous).
- Families; children if accompanied by adult/parent. Please consider whether your children are well-suited for such activity.
See also our Kids' Dig Program for information on a similar program for children.
Dig For a Day Program Digs are limited to six participants a day. Fossil collection is a serious scientific endeavor. Care must be taken in excavation. You are responsible for the tools you use.
Dig Seasons: Monday through Friday, late Spring to early Fall (weather permitting).
Registration Deposit: $50 (Advance Registration Required)
Please call 1-800-455-DINO for more details.
Daily Fees
- Individuals: $150
- Children: $80 each.
Cancellations
- If the dig is cancelled because of weather, money will be refunded in full; or you may reschedule for the next possible open date.
- If you choose not to participate, cancel 30 days prior to your reserved date for a full refund of your deposit. Cancel within 30 days and the deposit will be forfeited.
Further Opportunities
You are trained in our methods as you attend our programs. If you successfully master basic skills for proper field work, you may wish to join us in more delicate and critical work. You may earn "Volunteer Status" if you master certain skills. Volunteers are not charged for their participation. Contact us for more information about our Volunteer Program.