Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, Deinonychus, and Pentaceratops once roamed what is now public land. All are preserved on our public lands. Fossils are the remains or traces of any organism preserved in the earth's crust, and paleontology is the study of these fossils. Scientists get clues from the tiniest bacteria to some of the largest creatures ever to roam the Earth, swim in its seas, or soar in its skies. These clues help us solve the fascinating riddles of how life on Earth evolved.
Fossils illustrate how all forms of life are interdependent and affected by their environment.
Fossils or fossil fragments make up the bulk of some rock types such as coal, phosphate, and limestone. They also serve as indicators of other commodities, such as oil and gas, which are important in our economy and everyday lives. You can collect a variety of fossils on public lands, with certain restrictions. Special management designations restrict access and types of activities on some public lands. It is always a good idea to stop by the nearest BLM office to check on local conditions such as land status, fire danger, or road closures.