Frequently Asked Questions

Do Not Disturb the Site: Please leave the fossil(s) undisturbed and refrain from altering the surrounding area. This practice is essential for maintaining both the context and integrity of the discovery.

No. Unlike human remains, cultural artifacts or endangered species, you do not have to report fossils found on your private property in the United States. This means you can keep, sell, donate or do whatever you want with them. Discovery of fossils on your land will not cease any ongoing or upcoming construction projects on your property.

Our first initial visit to the property is a simple walk-through (no digging) to examine the area of potential fossil remains (we provide the property owner with a Hold Harmless Agreement in advance). If we believe that there are fossil remains that warrant removal, we then move forward with a license agreement with the property owner to do so.

Depending on the size of the fossil(s) and its location on the property, you more than likely won’t even know we’re there. Typical collection practices with most fossils are done by hand and not with large machinery. Any holes are filled back in restoring its stability and to ensure its cosmetic appearance with the natural landscape. 

Our small, two person field crew (husband & wife) will not interfere with the daily workings of the ranch or the stock fencing.

Every fossil collection is a different case. Fossil size, quantity and site accessibility are usually the three most important deciding factors.

Once the fossil(s) are removed, they then are prepared for sale. Depending on the quantity and quality of the fossil(s), this process can take up to a few years to complete.

We offer complete transparency throughout the entire process, from discovery to sale. We check in daily to keep the owner(s) informed of the day’s outcome during the discovery process, especially of any new finds.

During the preparation phase, we’ll update you with photos and data from the lab.

Land owners receive a percentage of the final sale price (with a receipt of the purchase price) from fossils recovered from their property. That price varies greatly depending on a variety of factors such as species, quality of fossils, overall percentage of the recovered skeletal remains, any unique qualities of the fossils, etc.