Close up of Allosaurus and Stegosaurus skeletons

Paleontological Resources

The Bureau of Land Management preserves and promotes the incredible paleontological resources of America’s public lands. Through scientific research, responsible stewardship, and public engagement, the BLM enhances our understanding of ancient life and ecosystems and ensures that irreplaceable fossils are safeguarded for future generations.

BLM oversees nearly 250 million acres of public lands in the United States, encompassing vast and scientifically important paleontological resources. Based on acreage and known fossil localities, BLM is believed to be the world’s largest steward of paleontological resources. Some of the most awe-inspiring dinosaur exhibits displayed in museums nationwide were collected from lands administered by BLM. Millions of additional fossils from BLM-managed public lands are studied and curated by universities and museums.

Explore awe-inspiring glimpses into Earth's distant past as revealed through stories that originate from discoveries on BLM lands.
A BLM employee holding a fossil for display.
Many important fossil discoveries are made by the public! We all play a critical role in preserving our nation’s heritage by recreating responsibly.
A person holds fossils, rocks, and sand in their hands
Museums, visitor centers, and signed hiking trails showcase the rich fossil heritage of BLM-managed public lands.
A girl wearing a green shirt with a white daisy in her hair looks at a fossilized footprint on the ground.
Find information about how the BLM manages their paleontological resources.
Partial dinosaur skull displayed on a black cloth

Partner Agencies

BLM is one of numerous public lands agencies with incredible paleontological stories, including: