Questions & answers
We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive. Have another question that you need help with? Contact us at geolmus@uwyo.edu.
Yes! Many of the best specimens are on display in the UW Geological Museum which is open to the public. But, if you're interested in visiting the research collections, you'll have to inquire as it's generally a case-by-by case scenario and usually requires an academic reason to visit.
The geology and paleontological collections are open to visiting researchers by appointment only. Interested researchers should visit the contact provided on each of the collection websites.
The Department of Geology and Geophysics will lend specimens to qualified individuals and institutions for exhibition, education, or scholarly research. Loan requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and approval is contingent upon such considerations as the structural stability of the specimens; security; exhibition or research conditions at the borrowing facility; insurance, crating, transportation, length of exhibition or research, and requirements for courier service. Please see the collections policies listed under the collection of interest for more information.
If you think you have found a fossil or rock of interest, the Department of Geology and Geophysics can help identify it on a time-available basis. Please note that we will not purchase your fossil or take it away. If you wish, and if your fossil is of scientific interest, you may donate it to the museum. Please email us a picture of your specimen with information about where it was collected and we will get back to you when we can: geolmus@uwyo.edu.
We would love to accept all donations, but unfortunately space is limited in our collections and we typcially consider donations on a case-by-case basis. Of particular interest are fossils and rocks from Wyoming and/or fossils and rocks that belong to a taxonomic group or geologic age that is not well represented in the collection. Not all specimens are appropriate to donate, especially those without basic locality data or clear ownership details, but we would be eager to discuss the possibility with you. Contact us for more information: geolmus@uwyo.edu
We rely on the public to search and report fossils from Wyoming's vast rock exposures. If you think you found a fossil, please contact us at our email (geolmus@uwyo.edu) with as much information has you have, especially location details. With location details, we can help determine who manages the land it was found on and put you in contact with the right people to report it.
The Geological Museum does work with volunteers on a limited basis. Volunteers with related areas of expertise are particularly encouraged to apply. Interested parties should email us at geolmus@uwyo.edu for more information.
History of our collections
Coming soon!
