When it comes to fossils, Madison County is a geological \ngold mind. The sand bars exposed by Middle River, are littered in Limestone \npieces that contain an abundance of fossils.
\nThe most abundant fossil found in our local limestone is \nthe crinoid. Crinoids were sea-dwelling creatures that lived a sedentary \nlifestyle on the bottom of the ocean floor approximately 350 million years ago. \nAlso known as sea lilies, crinoids had a large flower –like \nhead that was used to filter food out of the water. The head was connected to a \nlong stem leading down to a set of roots that held the creature to the sea \nfloor.
\nAs we enter October, the water levels \nin Madison County are usually a little lower which exposes many of the local \nsandbars. Add in cooler day time temperatures, and you have the perfect \nconditions for fossil hunting. \n
\nEach time the sandbars are covered by flowing water, new \nfossil finding opportunities are created as the moving water turns over and \nexposes a new layer of rock. With recent rainfall, our local sandbars should be \nlittered with new fossils.
\n\nOn October 21st at 5:30 pm, the Madison County Conservation \nBoard will be hosting a fossil hunting event at Middle River. As part of the \nWellness Wednesday series, this family-friendly event will be free and open to \npeople of all ages. Fossil hunting is an activity that is fun for all ages so \nadults are welcome to join the fun. You do not need to bring a child to \nparticipate.
\n\nPreregistration is required for this event. Participants should meet at the Middle River Shelter for a \nshort presentation on fossils and how they are formed prior to fossil hunting. \nSince we will be walking up and down the stream bed, rubber \nboots or old shoes that can get wet are a must for this activity. \nQuestions? Contact the Madison County Conservation Board \nOffice at 515-462-3536 or e-mail naturalist@madisoncountyparks.org.
SUMMARY:My County Parks - Fossil Hunting PRIORITY:3 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR