Paleontological record searches are completed to gain information about existing fossil localities within a given radius of a project site (usually a 1- to 5-mile buffer). Record searches include a list and map of all known localities within a given radius, a description of the fossils discovered at those localities, as well as a summary of the geology underlying the project. Record searches are commonly required as part of paleontological resource assessment.

The Museum’s Paleontology Department primarily houses fossil specimens from southern California (San Diego, Imperial, Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside Counties) and Baja California, Mexico in its collection.

Standard record searches are completed for a flat fee of $340. Larger projects, such as linear alignments spanning several miles, are billed for additional hours required. To request a paleontological record search, please contact us.