What U.S. law protects fossils found on federal lands from unauthorized collection or removal?

Wed, 06 May 2026 15:21:26 +0000

**What U.S. law protects fossils found on federal lands from unauthorized collection or removal?** Millions of years are encoded in every fossil embedded in American soil—silent records of prehistoric life preserved across public lands managed by the federal government. For treasure hunters, WWII veterans, paleontology students, and curious visitors alike, the question often arises: what U.S. law protects fossils found on federal lands from unauthorized collection or removal? This protection matters not only to science and heritage, but to the long-term stewardship of our natural legacy. Right now, growing public awareness about land preservation and ethical exploration is fueling interest in the legal framework safeguarding fossils on federal property. Far from being a trivial concern, the rules are designed to prevent the loss of irreplaceable scientific data and ensure that discoveries belong to the nation, not to chance collectors or commercial interests. ---