The CU Denver Tracks Collection: physical transfer, curatorial upgrades, and internet access

University Of Colorado At Boulder, Boulder CO

Investigators

Abstract

The University of Colorado Denver Fossil Tracks Collection includes thousands of fossil tracks and track replicas from dinosaurs, crocodilians, turtles, birds, hominids and other ancient animals from 21 countries on five continents. Fossil footprints are fundamentally important for interpreting past ecosystems: they shed light on animal behavior, patterns of movement, posture, and ancient habitats. The National Science Foundation award will be used to transfer this exceptional collection to an accredited, permanent home at the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History (Boulder). It will also fund curatorial improvements to the collection, enhancing the physical care of specimens, upgrading associated data, and providing on-line access to specimen information. This project will benefit a broad spectrum of people. Development of an educational website on fossil footprints will teach students, educators, and the lay public about the informative value of these fossils, and the scientific analysis and conservation of field sites. Professional paleontologists will be able to utilize the on-line catalog of tracks, as well as an interactive map showing the global distribution of fossil track sites. In addition, K-12 curricular activities on dinosaur tracks will be created to teach children about how science works, through web-based activities and public education collaborations with nearby Dinosaur Ridge National Natural Landmark.