What is Paleontology?
Paleontology is the study of ancient or past life.
Paleontologists study the fossilized remains of life, including vertebrate organisms such as fishes, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and dinosaurs (vertebrate paleontology); invertebrate organisms such as ancient snails, clams, ammonites, foraminifera, and arthropods (invertebrate paleontology); and preserved plants such as leaf impressions and petrified wood (paleobotany).
By studying fossilized organisms, ancient soils, geochemistry, and biochemistry, paleontologists are currently engaged in answering questions of global and regional climate change and investigating the anatomical and evolutionary changes of life over time.
Quick link to the Paleontology Permitting page
Utah Paleontology
Utah is famous for its paleontological resources. Nearly 300 different species of dinosaur have been discovered from the state of Utah and most of them are from BLM-administered lands. The BLM has a mandate to protect and interpret heritage resources (including scientifically significant paleontological resources).
We are currently undergoing a renaissance in the discovery, research, and interpretation of fossils from Utah.
Below, click on the various districts (West Desert, Green River, Color Country, Canyon Country, or Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument) to find out more about paleontology in that area.
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