The GPDM 2017 season that was

The Great Plains Dinosaur Museum has had a great 2017 season with a record number of Junior Paleontologist Programs, great participation in the adult dig programs, and approximately 20-percent more visitors through the gallery. Only 7% said they were on the Montana Dinosaur Trail but we did sell 14 Passport books. Fifty percent of our visitors were from Montana. We had visitors from 11 other countries including Canada, Germany, Australia, Poland, New Zealand, Italy, France, Sweden, South Africa, Columbia and United Kingdom. This year five Canadian Provinces were represented, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario.

Some of the goals we accomplished over the summer are listed below:

1. The collections area was completed with archival foam on the shelves, heavy plastic over all the shelving units, and several more shelves adopted out for $50.

2. The preparation lab was outfitted with the proper equipment and has been put to use by our intern Lorenzo!

3. Speaking of interns…Lorenzo is from Italy. He finished his Master’s degree and is ready to start his PhD. Our goal is to have interns every summer.

4. The opening Wine and Dino had a great attendance. A sea creature from south Phillips County was unveiled with a stunning display!

5. Two old ladies were able to keep the place open right up through Labor Day!

6. Our off season fund raiser was a huge success with the Bad Larrys playing at the Tin Cup in January!

A goal for next season is to generate a membership drive and get more attention for our wonderful fossils!

Some of the quotes from our visitors:

A three year old was heard to say, “I’ve been waiting all my life for this!”

One family came through who had ties with the discoverer of Peanut our baby Brachy. They were allowed in the collections to see some of the fossil that isn’t on display. They were happy to be able to report back to the family that Peanut is doing fine!

In our guest register many people complimented our exhibits and our science.

Looking forward to next year!

Cary Woodruff, our paleontologist, is studying for his PhD in Toronto at the Royal Ontario Museum with David Evans. He has implemented many of his ideas into the display area. He presented a talk at the Dinosaur Shindig in Ekalaka in July for the second year. The GPDM is thankful for his input and continued care even through the off season.