Fossil Collecting DO’S AND DON’TS
As with shells along the beach, it’s tempting to take a few home, but should we? As a general rule, according to the United States Department of the Agricultural, “Fossil hunting allows the collection of petrified wood, invertebrate and plant fossils for personal use. Invertebrate fossils, such as clams, do not have an internal skeleton. Collection of vertebrate (has internal skeleton) fossils requires a permit (36 CFR 261.9i).” This allows hobbyists to bring home fossils of the marine life found along these wonderful hikes, but be sure to check with district oces before collecting to ensure there is no exception.