UFOP Statewide

Supporting Paleontology in a Fossil Paradise

From dinosaurs to trilobites, Utah is world famous for its fossils. The Utah Friends of Paleontology is dedicated to public involvement in paleontology for the citizens of Utah. The only qualification for membership is an interest in fossils. Learn about fossils and the science of paleontology through participation in local chapter activities: lectures, demonstrations, museum visits, field trips, excavations, laboratory work, and paraprofessional training opportunities. Expand your knowledge and skills while contributing to citizen science!

Objectives of the Utah Friends of Paleontology

1. To promote popular interest and education in paleontology and related subjects.

2. To sponsor and encourage the formation and development of local chapter of members throughout the State of Utah, and by and through such means to preserve and protect the paleontological resources of Utah for the mutual benefit and enjoyment of all.

3. To encourage the involvement and support of local museums and educational institutions in paleontology.

UFOP Code of Ethics

UFOP Statewide Officers

President: Dale Gray


daleegr(at)aim.com

Vice President: Jennifer Asleson

dino-chick(at)hotmail.com

Secretary: Joe Dabelko

jdabelko(at)aol.com

Treasurer: Tim Bussian
tmbussian(at)gmail.com

Communications Officer: BJ Nicholls 
bjnicholls@utahpaleo.org

Past President: Lee Shenton


Statewide Advisors:

James I. Kirkland, Utah State Paleontologist 


jameskirkland@utah.gov

Martha Hayden, Paleontological Assistant, Utah Geological Survey
marthahayden@utah.gov


Statewide Managers

Education Manager: Deanna Brandau

deebrandau@gmail.com

Public Relations Manager: Jean Acheson

jachwest@comcast.net

UFOP Chapters

Utah Friends of Paleontology currently has five active chapters. You’re invited to attend any chapter’s meetings; all you need to have is an interest! We recommend that you check out the UFOP chapter that’s most convenient for you. Please note that due to the pandemic, meetings are being conducted online at the option of individual chapters.

Check the News & Events page for information about local chapter activities.

• Great Basin Chapter (meets in Salt Lake City, Utah)

 Uinta Basin Chapter (meets in Vernal, Utah)

 Castle Country Chapter (meets in Price, Utah)

 Southwestern Chapter (meets in St. George, Utah)

 Gastonia Chapter (meets in Moab, Utah)

UFOP Chapters