News Release

Shed Hunters Reminded that Collecting is Not Permitted in the Monument

Date: April 29, 2020
Contact: Kim Acker, 3078008404

Kemmerer, WY – Gathering shed antlers is a popular and lucrative activity, as antlers are used for a wide variety of purposes. Monument staff would like to remind shed hunters that all objects, including deer, elk, and moose antlers within Fossil Butte National Monument are protected by law and may not be removed. Collecting antlers within the monument is a violation of 36 CFR 2.1(a)(1)(i), which includes possessing, removing, or disturbing wildlife parts such as antlers. Violating this regulation will result in a fine of up to $5000 and/or up to six months in prison.
The monument boundary is marked by a fence and boundary signs, but shed collectors are responsible for knowing land ownership, management, and its rules and regulations. To report suspicious or illegal activity on the monument, contact 307-877-4455 or the local police station.
Disturbing deer, elk, and moose during early spring when food sources are scarce and animals’ fat reserves are low can cause stress, starvation, or the death of unborn calves. Shed antlers are also an important food source that provides nutrients, including calcium, to many small mammals. These small mammals pass nutrients on to other larger mammals and birds when they are caught and consumed.
 “We want all visitors to experience the excitement of discovery at Fossil Butte National Monument, including signs of wildlife,” says Superintendent Angela Wetz. “Leaving the monument as you found it for others to enjoy helps protect this special place.” In addition to antlers, archaeological remains, fossils, and other natural items such as rocks, feathers, nests, and plant material are protected.
While the monument visitor center is closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak, day-use outdoor spaces such as roads and trails remain accessible to the public in accordance with the latest federal, state, and local health guidance. Park Rangers remain on duty and regulations are being enforced.

The NPS encourages people who choose to visit park sites during this pandemic to adhere to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state and local public health authorities to protect visitors and employees. As services are limited, the NPS urges visitors to continue to practice Leave No Trace principles, including pack-in and pack-out, to keep outdoor spaces safe and healthy.  






Fossil Butte was set aside to protect diverse, abundant, and well-preserved fossils from the Eocene Epoch in the Green River Formation. It is also home to a high desert sagebrush ecosystem. For more information about Fossil Butte, visit www.nps.gov/fobu, call 307-877-4455, or follow #FossilButteNPS on social media. There is no charge to enter the monument.
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