National Fossil Day at Big South Fork

Date: October 12, 2011
Contact: Howard Duncan, 423-569-9778

To celebrate our nation's rich fossil heritage, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the American Geological Institute have teamed up to host the second annual National Fossil Day on October 12, 2011, during Earth Science Week. Visit https://www.nature.nps.gov/geology/nationalfossilday/ to learn more about fossils, find a National Fossil Day event in your area, or enter the National Fossil Day 2011 Art and Photography contest.

National Fossil Day promotes awareness and stewardship of fossils, and fosters greater appreciation of their value. More than 185 partners in 48 states, including museums, federal and state agencies, fossil sites, universities, professional organizations, and avocational groups, are joining forces with the National Park Service to support this nationwide celebration. Visitors to National Parks sites are reminded that fossils and all natural features are protected and may not be collected, removed or disturbed.

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is featuring a display of some fossils common to the Cumberland Plateau at the Bandy Creek Visitor Center. Park Rangers at the Bandy Creek Visitor Center will present a special program about fossils on Saturday, October 15 at 10:30 a.m. (Eastern Time). Children will have the opportunity to earn their Junior Ranger Paleontologist Badge and have an opportunity to make their very own "fossil". Visitors to the Blue Heron Mining Community will have the opportunity to learn more about the important role that coal, a true fossil fuel, played in the history of the Big South Fork. For additional information about these opportunities to learn about fossils and the Big South Fork, call 423 286 7275.