Fresh perspectives on paleontological heritage and the stewardship of non-renewable fossil resources

Abstract

A “fresh perspective” provides an insight into the values attributed to paleontological heritage and the consequent behaviors, motivations, and management challenges for the stewardship of this non-renewable resource. To provide a global perspective, a survey was undertaken with over three dozen experienced paleontological resource managers examining values and management experiences. Notably, values attributed to paleontological resources were consistently wide-ranging, encompassing scientific, educational, cultural, aesthetic, economic, and other values, and there was a consequent diversity of management approaches and actions. Responses are discussed and lessons learned are outlined to provide a fresh perspective and key points for the successful stewardship of paleontological heritage.