Palaeontological Field Research

All activities related to palaeontology in the Province of New Brunswick are administered by the New Brunswick Museum (NBM), whose Board of Directors reports to the Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Culture. The NBM plays a central role in all aspects of palaeontological research province-wide. In addition to maintaining fossil collections and extensive palaeontological data, the NBM issues permits for field research to qualified professionals, as well as interested amateurs.  For more information on the New Brunswick Museum, click here.

New Brunswick has a rich natural heritage preserved in its geological formations. Fossil remains can be found throughout the Province and provide detailed information about the plants and animals that inhabited this area millions of years ago.

The importance of our palaeontological record is officially recognized in the Heritage Conservation Act.   Formally asserting provincial ownership of all palaeontological objects, it stipulates that any fossils discovered in the Province must not be destroyed or removed from sites where they are found, without the required permit.

Any activity carried out for the purpose of obtaining and documenting data on fossils, including excavation and/or removal, is defined by the Act as palaeontological field research. Exacting standards must be met under any permit authorizing such research in regard to observation, collection, preservation and recording techniques.

Professional palaeontologists, geologists, or those with appropriate academic training and experience who wish to conduct research in New Brunswick, should submit a permit application containing a detailed description of their proposal, and their qualifications for carrying it out. The required application form can be accessed here.

Individuals who wish to study fossils, but who are not considered professionals, may also apply for field research permits.  To qualify, they must demonstrate basic understanding of palaeontology, as well as appropriate knowledge of current collection and reporting techniques.  The relevant application form is accessible here.

Enquiries from all those interested in such palaeontological research in New Brunswick should contact the New Brunswick Museum.