Come to Petrified Forest National Park this weekend to celebrate the discovery of "Gertie."/Chindesaurus sketch by Jeff Martz
Some 30 years ago, paleontologist Bryan Small discovered remains of a dinosaur new to science at Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Chindesaurus bryansmalli was a small carnivore, billed at the time as the oldest dinosaur ever found on the planet.
Word of this discovery made international news and when "Gertie" (the nickname the fossil became known as) was airlifted out of the park's wilderness on June 6, 1985, it was a major media event.
Join the park staff in celebrating the 30th anniversary of this historic fossil airlift by enjoying "Gertie Day" at the park. Join Dr. William Parker, park paleontologist, and Adam Marsh, seasonal paleontologist, as they display the actual fossils of Gertie, show films about Gertie and the airlift, and provide informal presentations about current research. This event is entirely free and all are welcome.
When: Saturday June 6 from 9:30 a.m.'3:30 p.m.
Where: the Community Building at Painted Desert Visitor Center (exit 311 off of I-40)
Two films will be shown at the following times:
* 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m: "Whopping Small Dinosaur" (1986)'this 25-minute film showcases the 1985 discovery of Gertie, the airlift event, and the significance of the discovery.
* 10:15 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m.: "Triassic Park" (2015)'this 25-minute film provides a snapshot of current paleontological studies at Petrified Forest National Park by world-class researchers.
In between showings of these films, the actual fossils of Gertie will be on display and paleontologists will be available to provide informal presentations and answer questions.
Stories about:
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
