You Can Now Dig For Fossils At Stonerose Interpretive Center In Washington
By Jessica Wick|Published August 01, 2020
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Jessica Wick
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Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
We always sat that there’s something for everyone in Washington — and as it turns out, there’s even something for our aspiring paleontologists. The Stonerose Interpretive Center, which you’ll find in the small Eastern Washington town of Republic, has recently opened back up to the public. And although there are some restrictions put in place due to current conditions, you’re welcome to dig for fossils here once again.
While the Stonerose Interpretive Center and Fossil Site has been open for years, they've recently reopened in a temporary new location.
After closing their doors for a while to keep Washingtonians healthy, they reopened in a new location at 15 N. Clark. This is a temporary location and meant to help comply with social distancing guidelines.
Stonerose is the name of a fossil site, a place where you'll spot impressions of plants and fish that lived millions of years ago embedded in shale.
Over time, layers of sediment built up on the lakebed, most of it volcanic ash from activity that occurred in the area. The layers of shale hardened, then split open like a book to reveal the Stonerose fossils inside.
You get to keep three fossils of your choice... and if you happen to discover a brand new finding, the paleontologist working will classify it and name it... and you'll get the credit.
Stonerose is currently open from Wednesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Right now, thanks to a generous grant from Innovia Foundation, they are offering free admission to children from low income families (and no proof is required). Check out their website and plan your dig!
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