New Ringgold is a marine middle Devonian site. The fossils found are similar to those at Beltzville. The area was a reef-like environment. Common fossils include crinoids, brachiopods, gastropods, trilobites, andbryozoans. Preservation is pretty good, with some of the fossils coated in orange iron oxide for nice contrast.
Mallet and chisel are recommended, although you can surface hunt, but you may not be as successful. This is a local road department borrow pit, so depending on how much they’ve been using it, there may be more or less loose rock exposed. Everyone should find something worth bringing home.
The event is scheduled for May 2 at 10 am, with a rain date of May 3rd at 10 am. We will notify you the week of the trip to confirm the date.
Parking is right next to the collecting site, and there are no facilities available there. For collectiong there is no climbing required. For questions, contact the club coordinator (rbaldwin@marylandnature.org).
It is recommended that you bring:
- rock hammer and chisel, (putty knife optional, but useful),
- containers to put your finds in (such as drywall buckets or large roasting pans)
- bag lunch and snacks
- drinking water
- dress for the weather
- wear a hat and long pants (site has no shade)
Details about time and meeting location will be shared with registrants before the day of the trip. You must be a current member of the NHSM Fossil Club to sign up for this trip.
NHSM’s Fossil Club is a group of novice and more experienced collectors who meet to share knowledge and discuss fossil identification, fossil locations, and other fossil-related topics. Monthly meetings feature guest speakers both from within the club and from outside organizations. We also strive to schedule frequent collection trips to various locations.
An annual NHSM membership is $35 for individuals, $50 for families; Fossil Club membership is an additional $5 for individuals and $10 for families.
If you are not yet a member of NHSM, click here to join. When you join as a new member, you can add the club membership(s) of your choice to your registration. Current NHSM members who wish to join any clubs should email the Community Coordinator at rbaldwin@marylandnature.org.
The Natural History Society of Maryland is a volunteer-led non-profit organization, so the fee you pay will go directly to support the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. Learn more about NHSM Clubs: https://youtu.be/pIA7naRjXws
Registration
NHSM Fossil Club Member: $0
Suggested Donation $5