For Immediate Release Media contact: The Field Museum Greg Borzo 312/665-7106 gborzo@fieldmuseum.org Mastodon Camp! Program Overview Mastodon Camp! will be divided into three basic components. Pre-excavation training will include three five-hour classes that will focus on the tools and trade of paleontology, the geology of Illinois, the fossils of Illinois and restoration ecology which will take place at The Field Museum on July 30, 2007 to August 1, 2007. A combination of classroom activities and lectures led by Museum and Forest Preserve educators and scientists will introduce students and teachers to background information and prepare them for the excavation. In addition, students and teachers will explore some of the Museum's other exhibitions such as Evolving Planet, Plants of the World, World of Mammals and The Ancient Americas. The program will also include discussions on career options within the natural sciences. The second portion of the program will be the actual excavation of the mastodon on August 2 - 3, 2007 and August 6 - 10, 2007. During this time, students and teachers will work side by side with scientists to extract the mastodon remains from the ground. The excavation will occur over seven days, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Students and teachers will learn how scientists use snails to track climate change and soil patterns to determine the history of Illinois landscape. Museum and Forest Preserve team members will also focus discussions and education on land preservation and possible career paths for interested students. The conclusion of Mastodon Camp! will be Saturday, August 11, 2007 following the excavation. Students and teachers will return to The Field Museum for a day-long "wrap up" session, which will introduce students and teachers to the steps following fossil excavation, conservation and exhibition. Awards and certificates will also be distributed to students and teachers who have successfully completed the camp. <<Return to the Press Room