A Surprise Geology Lesson on my Trip From Farson, Wyoming to Vernal, Utah

[minnbuckeye]

On a recent trip out west, I ended my day of collecting petrified wood in the Farson, Wyoming area by driving to Vernal, Utah. On this trip through some gorgeous country, I was pleasantly surprised by occasional roadside signs telling of the geology that I was traveling through. And by the time I arrived in Vernal, I feel I had a better understanding of the local geology!!! Thanks to whoever was responsible for the signage. Here was my lesson!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One question I have about the next formation, the Mowry Shale. I did pull over here to stretch my legs and found a few pieces of matrix that contained some nice fish scales. It wasn't until I returned home and saw these that it occurred to me, did I collect this illegally along the road's right of  way? Are vertebrate fossils open to collection on a road right of way?

 

 

 

Edited August 30, 2022 by minnbuckeye

[hadrosauridae]

yeah, those signs are really nice, and amazing just how close together they are!  I saw them on a trip to Vernal last year.

[Tidgy's Dad]

Whoever ordered those signs should get a medal! 

[DPS Ammonite]

I second Adam. I wonder how many people stop and look for the mentioned fossils? I would.

Edited August 31, 2022 by DPS Ammonite

[Houdek]

I agree. Great idea by the whatever dept of WY or ID. 

 

and I'd also start looking for a safe pull-off spot as soon as I'd see one of those signs. While cross-referencing a Roadside Guide to the Geology of ...

 

Thanks for the trip through time.

[jpc]

I know exactly where you were.  Not sure about legality of your finds.  Colorado does not allow roadway right if way (read, roadcuts) collecting.  Wyoming is less concerned.  Not sure what the rules are in utah.