Who to Contact When You Discover a Large Fossil in Your Backyard
Imagine you're digging in your backyard and come across a large, intriguing fossil. What do you do? Who can you contact to help you properly document and preserve this find?
What to Do When You Discover a Fossil
The first and most important step is to contact the appropriate experts. Experts in paleontology, natural history museums, and universities are well-equipped to handle such discoveries. These professionals can advise you on the significance of your find and whether it's worth pursuing a more in-depth investigation.
Who to Contact
Depending on your location, here are some potential contacts you can reach out to:
Paleontologist - Specializes in the study of fossils and prehistoric life. Natural History Museum - Houses collections of fossils and related artifacts. University with biology or geology education - May have professors or researchers who can assist you. Paleontological/Geological Association - May provide connections to local experts.Permission and Property Rights
It's essential to remember that the fossil belongs to the landowner, you, in this case. Experts may be interested in studying the fossil, but they will always ask for your permission first. Here’s what you can expect:
Seeking Permission
Before any digging or removal, the experts will seek your permission. They understand the importance of respecting property rights and will approach you with respect and professionalism.
Financial Considerations
While most fossils aren't worth a fortune, there are exceptions. In rare cases, a particularly significant discovery, such as a T. rex, could be highly valuable. If your fossil is rare or of great significance, the experts might even be willing to offer you a financial compensation. This is especially true for highly valuable fossils like a T. rex.
What Happens Next
Once you grant permission, the professionals will typically begin the process of extraction. However, they won't just jump right in. They will use proper excavation techniques to ensure the fossil is handled with care. The process can be time-consuming but is necessary to protect the fossil's integrity.
What Happens to the Fossil
After the excavation, the fossil will likely be stored temporarily at the site or transported to a museum, university, or research institution. Here's what you can expect:
Borrowing the Fossil
Experts will generally ask for your permission to borrow the fossil for research or display in a museum. They will handle the fossil with great care and usually return it in the same condition as they found it. However, in the case of a large, highly valuable fossil like a T. rex, there could be negotiations regarding the long-term ownership of the fossil.
Ownership Rights
While experts may need to borrow the fossil, they don't have the right to take it without your explicit permission. Taking a fossil without the landowner's consent is illegal and considered theft.
Protection of Your Fossil
It's crucial to protect your fossil to ensure its preservation for future generations. Here are some tips:
Keep it dry and cool to prevent damage. Avoid handling it too much to prevent potential damage. Consider consulting a professional to ensure the correct method of storage. Inform local authorities or the appropriate organizations about your find to maintain a record of the discovery.Conclusion
If you ever come across a fossil in your backyard, you should contact the appropriate experts to handle the investigation. By doing so, you can ensure that the fossil is preserved and studied properly. However, remember that the fossil is your property, and you must always have a say in how it is handled and eventually displayed.