What we don't know is how much is there. July's public dig is an effort of the Geological Survey, the state Parks and Recreation Department and the Tourism Department. Melanie Thornberg, with Soli's Pembina Gorge Tours in Walhalla, said the dig is part of a plan to increase tourism and boost economic development in northeastern North Dakota. Within a week of putting information about the dig on the Internet, organizers had received about 50 responses. Seventy more followed.
All fossils found on state land become state property.
They are displayed, with the finder's name, in a fossil display at the Heritage Center. Plans are in the works for more digs and other ecotours, such as birding and museum tours. The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.