Why are there so many Fossils in Florida?

When is the best time of year to Fossil Hunt?

Where can I find Fossils?

What equipment will I need to Fossil Hunt?

Will I see an alligator while I Fossil Hunt?

Can I keep ANYTHING I find?

The river belongs to the State of Florida (to the legal residents of Florida).  Scientifically important finds may be more important to all of us than it is to just you.  The State of Florida, through legislation, says that sea shells and shark teeth are common enough that they do not need to be regulated.  Other types of fossils though, such as Mammoth, Mastodon and other unique vertebrates may be important enough for the state to take possession of them.  Amateur fossil hunters are only loosely regulated, so those of us who do it professionally try to educate those just getting started.  Here is some information that you should know.

To fossil hunt on privately owned land, you MUST have the permission of the land owner.  The river bank is likely private land, so fossil hunting there may be illegal, without permission.  Anyone can fossil hunt on state owned land (such as river beds), but some areas may be off-limits, including State Parks or any site containing a high concentration of human artifacts.  If you are only an occasional fossil hunter, you probably do not need a permit to fossil hunt on State land.  If you fossil hunt regularly though, you probably DO.  Use this link and look under the heading "Who Must Obtain A Permit?"

We have a permit, which covers our fossil hunting activity.  Most of the people we work with do not require a permit.  Obtaining a permit is easy and inexpensive.  Use the above link for more information.  Whether you have a permit or not, please follow the guidelines of reporting any significant finds.

When I started fossil hunting, I felt very possessive of the things that I found.  It eventually became apparent though, that (1) the land belongs to all of us, not me and (2) the find might be important enough to be of value to us as a society.  Please be respectful of these consideration, but don't let it stop you from fossil hunting.  Some of the most important finds have been made by amateur fossil hunters.

Use common sense.

        Do not do major excavations in the river banks (the bank is likely private land).
        Do not destroy vegetation or disturb wild-life, especially alligators.
        Avoid deep water and fast currents (be safe).