WDC offers new and expanded Earth Science Education Programs for 2023

The Wyoming Dinosaur Center has expanded its education program this year and will be offering a wider range of earth science-oriented activities for both adults and young people. The core program of the full- or multiple-day “Dig for a Day” continues daily-–whereby groups and families learn dinosaur fossil excavation techniques at the Center’s nearby dig sites—as does the half-day excavation program, “Shovel Ready.” The dig site excavations run from May to September.

Instruction in fossil preparation techniques returns with the minimum three-hour laboratory program “Paleo Prep.” Participants engage in removing dinosaur bone specimens from their jackets, cleaning them with both hand and air-driven tools, and assembling and repairing them. “Paleo Prep” is offered weekdays, all year.

Also returning is “Dino Expedition: Generations.” First launched with two sessions last year, this year will see four sessions for this five-day introduction to paleontology and geology that includes dig site excavations and fossil preparation work. “Generations” is primarily designed for —though not limited to—grandparents and their grandchildren. Sessions will begin June 12, July 10, August 7 and 21.

The popular “Kids’ Dig” returns with a total of 12 sessions. These are single-day events on selected Saturdays and Thursdays beginning June 8. “Kid’s Dig” is where young people ages 7 to 12 get a comprehensive introduction to paleontology by working a dig site, ground searching for fossils, and engaging in fun, educational activities.

Two sessions of “Dinosaur Academy” will be offered June 26 and July 24. This is a five-day part-classroom, part-fieldwork course for high school students. Conducted by our staff paleontologists, it is a comprehensive introduction to geology and paleontology.

A new program, “Teachers’ Workshop,” offers two, three-day workshops for up to 13 teachers per workshop, preceded by an orientation meeting the day prior. Comprehensive study and discussion in the classroom combine with fieldwork, with the goal of helping teachers better instruct their students in the earth sciences. Underwritten by an educational grant, the course cost for each teacher participant is only 100 dollars.

Another new program is “Science Saturdays.” These two-hour sessions provide creative earth science projects for young people accompanied by at least one adult. Attendance is free with a half-price museum admission fee. Sessions run on the second Saturday of each month, except May through September.

New also is “Fossils Working on Fossils” -- four special 5-day courses to be held in February, March, April, May, and September. Designed for adults 18 and older, up to 13 persons per session will combine fieldwork, “weather permitting,” and laboratory work.

With activities and courses for all ages, the education programs this year are the most extensive ever offered by the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. For information on exact schedules, reservations, and costs for these activities visit the Center’s website at http://www.wyomingdinosaurcenter.org or call 800-455-DINO.

The Wyoming Dinosaur Center, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization that provides educational experiences for visitors of all ages, promotes research, and conserves Wyoming’s fossil treasures for future generations to study and enjoy.