Paleontology in South Dakota

Fort Galpin Fur Trade Post, near Pierre

The Galpin fur trade post was built and used for one year in 1856, following the sale of the Fort Pierre Chouteau to the military and the construction of Fort Pierre II.

Volunteers are invited to take part in this excavation. Call the Archaeological Research Center at 605- 394-1936 or visit www.sdsmt.edu/wwwsarc. E-mail mike.fosha@state.sd.us for dig dates.

Big Pig Dig, Badlands National Park

In June 1993, two visitors at Badlands National Park made an incredible discovery - a fossil bed more than 32 million years old. The site is thought to represent a prehistoric watering hole where thirsty animals became stuck. Paleontologists have uncovered 18 types of animals, including a cow-sized rhinoceros, a pig-like animal, a small, three-toed horse, a type of tortoise and rabbit-ancestor.

Site excavations continue this summer (2008) through mid-August. The public is invited to observe paleontologists in action. Visitors can also view fossils of the ancient creatures on the Fossil Exhibit Trail. Open daily 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (2008 is the last year for the Big Pig Dig.)

Park entrance fee required. Call Rachel Benton, Badlands National Park, at 605-433-5261 or e-mail rachel_benton @nps.gov or visit www.nps.gov/badl

Giant Fossil Sea Reptiles, southern Black Hills

Paleontologists are working to discover fossiles from the Late Cretaceous Western Interior Sea. Excavations continue during the first two weeks of August (2008). Join the expedition to search for and help collect Cretaceous marine reptiles, particularly mosasuars and plesiosaurs.

Fee charged. Call Dr. James Martin, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, 605-394-2467, e-mail James.Martin@sdsmt.edu or visit sdmines.sdsmt.edu/museum

The Mammoth Site, Hot Springs

The simple act of getting a drink of water led to the deaths of hundreds of animals 26,000 years ago at what is now The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs. After they entered the spring-fed sinkhole to drink and bathe, the mammoths were unable to climb back up the slippery banks and became trapped, ultimately starving to death. Since 1974, 53 Columbian mammoths and three woolly mammoths have been unearthed, making this the first site both species have been found together. Other fossils discovered include camel, llama, giant short-faced bear, wolf, coyote and prairie dog.

Visitors may tour the working dig and Ice Age exhibit in Hot Springs year-round. The Earthwatch Institute sponsors an excavation at The Mammoth Site each year, June 30-July 26. The Mammoth Site also offers the Junior Paleontologist Program seven days a week, June 1-Aug. 15. This simulated dig allows participants to dig for replicas of actual bones found at the site. Merit badges in geology for Boy and Girl Scouts are offered. Advance, pre-paid regsitration is required.

Admission charged. Call The Mammoth Site at 605-745-6017 or visit www.MammothSite.com.