800 LAS VEGAS STUDENTS CELEBRATE NATIONAL FOSSIL DAY
LAS VEGAS -Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument celebrated National Fossil Day with nearly 800 Las Vegas students at Kitty Ward Elementary School Oct. 14.
Las Vegas Mayor Pro Tem Steve Ross spoke to the students about the new national monument. UNLV paleontologist Dr. Josh Bonde spoke about fossils, and Superintendent Jon Burpee taught the students about National Fossil Day and how Tule Springs can help scientists learn about the past.
The students observed a few of the specimens and casts and asked questions about the fauna. The students also participated in a 'mock dig' after learning about the importance of preserving the fossils at Tule Springs. They also learned why it's important to tell an adult if they see anyone taking fossils.
The Fossil Day celebrations will continue 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. The park service, museum and Protectors of Tule Springs will provide a variety of family-friendly fossil activities.
National Fossil Day activities will also be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 17, 24 and 31 at the Nevada State Museum at the Springs Preserve.
Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument was established Dec. 19, 2014. This is its first National Fossil Day celebration. In 2016, Tule Springs will be featured in the annual National Fossil Day logo for the Oct. 12, 2016, event.
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Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
