How to Dig Your Own Fossils in Arizona

Preparation

• 1

  Learn about the geologic time scale --- the division of Earth's history into geologic eras and periods. Choose the era or period from which you want to find fossils.

• 2

  Obtain the proper permissions. For each area you intend to visit for fossil hunting, find out who owns the land and whether fossil hunting is allowed. The majority of the land in Arizona is under the control of the state or federal government. Collecting fossils on U.S. Forest Service land or state land requires a permit. Before entering or fossil hunting on private land, obtain permission from the owners.

• 3

  Choose the best time to hunt fossils, considering climate and time of year. Looking for fossils in the southern deserts of Arizona can be physically taxing and potentially dangerous during the hottest months of the summer. Wait until late October to do your fossil hunting there. Conversely, winter storms often visit the high country near Flagstaff and the rim country in the eastern part of the state. The pleasant summer months there make for a great vacation as well as a fossil hunt.

Digging

• 4

  Dig with a round-edge shovel to remove dirt around the fossil. Include a rock hammer in your tool kit. The closer you get to the fossil, the smaller the tool you will need to excavate it without damaging it. Loosen compacted soil with a small pickax. Use a flat-bladed, pointed mason's trowel to scrape fine layers of soil from the area where the fossil is located. Bring a whisk broom and a paintbrush to sweep material away from around the fossil. A dental pick assists with very fine work.

• 5

  Wear durable but comfortable clothes and hiking boots. Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands. Bring plenty of water so you won't get dehydrated from being out in the dry desert climate. Always have a cell phone with you so you can call for help if you are injured while digging.

• 6

  Photograph your fossil hunting site to record where you discovered interesting finds. Keep a log book that lists the locations where you dig. You may find something of potential importance to paleontologists, and if so, you need to be able to direct them to the site for further study.