News Release

Paleontology Lab Manager Wraps Up Big Summer of Programs at Agate Fossil Beds

Sam Wright speaks at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: October 3, 2023

Contact: Tera Lynn Gray, 308-436-9768

Last Saturday, September 23, 2023, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument proudly concluded its summer programming with a fascinating presentation by Sam Wright, Lab Manager at the Museum of Geology at South Dakota School of Mines. As the final speaker in a season brimming with educational and entertaining events, Sam brought the world of fossil excavation to life, allowing visitors to delve into the secrets of our prehistoric past.

"Sam's presentation provided a unique glimpse into the world of fossils, from their in situ discovery to their eventual display," said Tera Lynn Gray, lead ranger at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.

Throughout the summer, Agate Fossil Beds hosted a series of enlightening paleontology presentations, including talks by Ed Welsh, a paleontologist and park ranger from Badlands National Park, and Dr. Robert Hunt, a geologist and adjunct professor at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.

Agate's commitment to promoting science education extended to the night sky as well, with the park hosting six programs designed to bring them closer to achieving their International Dark Sky Certification. The park rangers are determined to finalize their application and secure the certification before next summer's night sky programs begin.

"The night sky programs are a testament to our dedication to preserving the pristine beauty of our skies," Gray said.

The monument also celebrated the long history of friendship between the Cook family and the Oglala Lakota. June 5th featured the annual tradition of raising Lakota tipis at the visitor center, this time with Darrell Red Cloud and the Red Cloud Singers. The tipis will be taken down in mid-October to safeguard them from the winter weather.

Cultural demonstrations added another layer of richness to the visitor experience. Jina RedNest showcased her exquisite beadwork, providing visitors with an opportunity to witness her craft and acquire beautiful handcrafted items directly from her. The park is actively seeking more cultural demonstrations from local Lakota artists for next summer.

In an effort to engage the community, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument invited volunteers to participate in a service project on September 11th, focusing on the Daemonelix Trail. This initiative aimed to widen the trail for enhanced accessibility and better opportunities for observing the park's unique wildlife.

"Volunteers play a crucial role in our conservation efforts, and we welcome their support year-round," Gray said.

As summer 2023 draws to a close, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument transitions to its winter hours, operating from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until May 15th, 2024. The park's dedicated rangers are already gearing up for another exciting schedule in the 2024 summer season.

About Agate Fossil Beds: Admission to Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is always free, providing everyone with an opportunity to explore its treasures. For a comprehensive list of upcoming events and activities, please visit the park's website at https://www.nps.gov/agfo/planyourvisit/calendar.htm.
Those interested in volunteering at the park can find more information on the volunteer page at https://www.nps.gov/agfo/getinvolved/volunteer.htm 
or the national volunteer webpage at https://www.volunteer.gov/s/.

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, located 34 miles north of Mitchell, NE, or 22 miles south of Harrison, NE on Highway 29, and 3 miles east on River Rd, welcomes visitors throughout the winter months. The Visitor Center's winter hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., and the trails remain open from dawn until dusk.

For more information and updates, please visit us at www.nps.gov/agfo and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.For more information about Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, please visit www.nps.gov/agfo.

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