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Date: October 13, 2009
Contact: Jeff Wolin, 719-748-3253

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument protects one of the richest fossil deposits in the world. In addition to preserving fossils, the national park service also continues to search for fossils and conducts research. Have you ever wondered how scientists find fossils? How do they know where to look? What do they do when they find a fossil? You can find the answers to these questions by coming to Saturdays with a Scientist which is a program that takes place at the Florissant Fossil Beds from 1 – 3 PM on most Saturdays. Call (719) 748-3253 for details. Join Bob Carnein, geologist, professor, and National Park Service Volunteer as he looks for fossils in his lab in the visitor center at Florissant Fossil Beds. This is also a good opportunity to bring in your rocks and fossils to get them identified.

While you are at the Monument you can see the park film and exhibits and hike on smaller self-guided trails or go for a longer hike on one of the Monument’s 14 miles of trails. Kids may want to earn a badge or patch through the Junior Ranger Program.

There is no charge for the program beyond the normal entrance fee which is $3.00 for anyone 16 or over. Anyone 15 or under is free. Pets are prohibited.

To reach the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, travel 35 miles west of Colorado Springs on Highway 24. At the town of Florissant, turn left onto Teller County #1 and travel 2 miles south to the Visitor Center.