Texas Tech University

Preserving Prehistoric Texas

 

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The Paleontology Division at the Museum of Texas Tech University explores 260 million years of the history of life, a time span extending from before the Age of Dinosaurs to the Ice Age. Our mission is to collect, preserve, interpret, and communicate information about the deep history of life in western Texas and other parts of the world. Over the past 50 years we have amassed a significant collection of fossils of prehistoric mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and other organisms, including some of the oldest known dinosaurs. We work primarily in western Texas, coordinating with local landowners to explore the rich fossil record in our state. However, our collections and fieldwork have extended to other parts of the world, including Antarctica. You can play a vital role in ensuring this work continues well into the future.

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Uncovering the history of life begins with field explorations to locate, excavate, and collect fossil remains, clean and preserve them in our lab and collections, and conduct research. However, the ultimate goal of the Paleontology Division is to connect the people of western Texas to the deep history in their backyards. We do this through outreach and engagement activities such as events hosted at the museum, school visits, and online educational resources. Your support means we will be able to reach these goals.

 

Your generous donations will help us communicate the history of life to the public at every step, from discovering fossils in our region to distributing the knowledge we gain. By donating, you play a crucial role in ensuring that our rich fossil heritage is well preserved and seen and appreciated by the people of western Texas and beyond.

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