How did it all happen?

 Dr. Sheldon Johnson was preparing the land for future development and flipped over a large sandstone block that contained a natural cast of a dinosaur footprint. See History

What is the significance of this site?

Dr Jim Kirkland described it as "the most significant dinosaur tracksite in western North America." Dr. Gerard Gierlinski of the Polish Geological Institute called the collection of the tracks at the site "the most important in th world for researchers working on Early Jurassic footprints."  Drs. Adrian Hunt and Spencer Lucas of the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science referred to the site as one of only three known "Ichnolagerstatte" in the world, a place of exceptional fossil preservation in which levels of detail that do not ordinarily occur in fossils, including aspects of animal behavior, are preserved with exquisite precision.

Who helped preserve the site?

The Johnsons began the initial work of preservation and were immediately joined by hundreds of paleontologists, local volunteers, students, business owners, politicians, and others who donated time, money, or skills.  Everyone was thrilled to be part of such a significant discovery.  The City of St. George, the current owner of the land, utilized the funding of State and Federal grants for the building which protects the main trackway and many of the blocks.  Others, such as Darcy Stewart who procured nearby land to protect it from further development, also helped in dramatic ways. 

What's happening now?

Unfortunately, hundreds of fossils, including unique and very important specimens, remain unprotected outside the current building.  Our educational programs need funding to grow or expand.  New track discoveries outside the building have yet to be scientifically documented.

What can I do to help?

To enable and encourage further educational and scientific use as well as the preservation of  these extraordinary discoveries, the DinosaurAh!Torium Foundation needs your help! You are invited to "Make an Impression" by donating or click on 'Membership', 'Adopt Tracks', or 'Volunteers'.