BLM UT Consultants

Vermillion Cliffs--Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT

Utah



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BLM UT Paleo Consultants

Information about Consulting Paleontology

The Paleontological Resources Preservation Act (PRPA) requires that paleontological resources be managed and protected on public land using scientific principles and expertise, and that appropriate plans be developed for inventory, monitoring, and the scientific and educational use of paleontological resources. These plans must emphasize interagency coordination and collaborative efforts with non-federal partners, the scientific community, and the general public. In addition, the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) also require that scientifically significant paleontological resources on BLM-administered lands be managed and preserved.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do we need to do a paleontological survey before digging into the ground?

IM 2008-009 on Potential Fossil Yield Classification (PFYC) System for Paleontological Resources on Public Lands
Potential Fossil Yield Classification (PFYC)
Potential Fossil Yield Classification (PFYC) - Guidance

What are the requirements for paleontological survey and mitigation?

IM 2009-011 on Assessment and Mitigation of Potential Impacts to Paleontological
Paleontological Assessment and Mitigation Guidance
Paleontological Assessment and Mitigation Flowchart

Where can we find a consulting paleontologist?

Active Consulting Paleo Permits in the State of Utah

Paleontological Permitting

BLM UT Paleo Logo

For specific questions, please contact Scott Foss, Regional Paleontologist, 801-539-4272

For general information on permitting visit the BLM UT Permittees page. This page contains information that is specific to Consulting Paleontologists doing work in Utah.

Need a BLM UT Consulting Report Cover Sheet? Click here to download one.

For specific information about Paleontology Consulting Reports, click here.

Consulting Reports

Surface disturbing activities may cause direct adverse impacts to paleontological resources through the damage or destruction of fossils; or loss of valuable scientific information. Under PRPA, the BLM has a responsibility to manage and protect paleontological resources on Federal land using scientific principles and expertise. Generally, the project proponent is responsible for the cost of implementing mitigation measures including the costs of investigation, salvage and curation of paleontological resources.

After completing a field survey, the consulting paleontologist must file a written report with the BLM and the designated curation facility. There are specific guidelines for these written reports. Please follow the link for specific information and guidance about consulting reports.