‘This is a rare opportunity to see the past come alive.’ Free fossil exploration events to take place this summer
Published at
POCATELLO — Community members are invited to participate in free fossil exploration events happening throughout the summer in Pocatello and Hagerman.
The National Park Service and the Idaho Museum of Natural History are hosting the events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the designation of the Hagerman Fauna Site National Natural Landmark. The landmark is within the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument between Boise and Twin Falls.
The fossil exploration events will take place at the Thousand Springs Visitor Center, 17970 U.S. Highway 30 in Hagerman, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 18, July 16 and Aug. 20. Events will also be held at the Idaho Museum of Natural History on the Idaho State University campus at 698 E. Dillon Street in Pocatello, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 4, July 2 and Aug. 6.
“It’s not just (going to be) fun, it’s a chance to connect with the ancient history beneath your feet!” Kendra Kersting, lead park ranger for the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, told EastIdahoNews.com.
The Pliocene
During the Pliocene (4 to 3 million years ago), this place looked quite different. Lush wetlands, forests and grasslands provided excellent habitat for a variety of animals. From fascinating, now-extinct creatures like the saber-toothed cat, mastodon and ground sloth, to more familiar animals like horses, beavers and birds, the scientific study of Pliocene fossils is the key to Hagerman.
Kersting said the events will feature hands-on fun for all ages. There will be a special activity just for kids, take-home treasures, handouts about fossil facts and Idaho’s prehistoric past, as well as fossil talks.
“(People who attend can) learn all about Idaho’s rich fossil history, especially the amazing Hagerman Fauna site,” Kersting said. “The site contains the world’s richest deposits of Upper Pliocene-age terrestrial fossils. Expect a day filled with discovery, fun and a little prehistoric adventure!”
Not only will there be fossils from the Pliocene era and the Hagerman Fossil Beds, but the Idaho Museum of Natural History will be showcasing fossils from multiple time periods.
“You’ll get a much broader glimpse into Idaho’s prehistoric past,” Kersting said.
There will be dinosaur fossils, and the museum is planning to bring shark fossils to Hagerman at some point, according to Kersting.
“These events are about more than just looking at old bones. They’re a chance to learn about Hagerman Fossil Beds and the amazing stories they tell about life millions of years ago,” she said. “They’re a chance to understand why preserving these sites matter, not just for science, but for future generations.”
Kersting encourages people to come to the events and explore their local history in a way that’s “hands-on, fascinating and uniquely Idaho.”
“Whether you’re lifelong local or new to the area, this is a rare opportunity to see the past come alive, right in your own backyard!” Kersting said.
For those interested in visiting the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, visitors are encouraged to check current conditions by viewing the park website or calling the park visitor center at (208) 527-1335.