Giving back

Key to the objectives of High Plains Paleontology, we seek to take the best parts of paleontology and share those experiences with interested members of the armed forces community and their families. A major aspiration for our orginazation is to one day be able to provide opportunities for these groups to join us in the field so that they can take part in the science themselves. This goal is something we believe we can achieve and serve a multitude of communities in getting there. 

“As a military veteran, joining the High Plains Paleo team for one of their fossil digs was one of the most enjoyable and unexpectedly meaningful experiences I’ve had since leaving service. From day one, Pat, Steve, Clare, and even Glen made me feel right at home. This crew doesn’t  just hand you a shovel, but really takes the time to teach you  the “why” behind what you’re doing. I came in just hoping to learn a bit about fossils, but I left understanding the full process — discovery, excavation, and even the responsibility behind preservation. Everyone there was patient, knowledgeable, and just fun to be around. We laughed, we learned, and I got to see firsthand how much passion goes into their work. If you’ve ever thought about trying something new that combines adventure, history, and good company, I highly recommend joining a dig with this group.”

-Shane Smith

Therapeutic Dirt: Why Every Veteran Should Dig for Dinosaurs

As a Marine Corps veteran, I've had my share of unforgettable experiences. But this past summer, digging for dinosaur bones in the South Dakota Badlands with High Plains Paleontology gave me something I didn't realize I was missing; pure, unfiltered enjoyment in the field.

From the moment we arrived, I was captivated by the landscape. No roads. No cars. Just endless rolling hills, wandering animals, and a horizon that went on forever. Coming from city life, where the noise never stops and the air feels thick, this was a breath of fresh air, literally. Riding the Polaris across untouched terrain, I felt the kind of freedom I hadn't experienced in years.

The team at High Plains Paleontology was exceptional. These experts took the time to help us correctly identify each bone we uncovered, sharing their knowledge with genuine enthusiasm and encouragement. They reminded me of the best people I served alongside, passionate about what they do and invested in bringing others along for the ride.

But what I loved most was the simplicity of it all. Out there in the elements all day, digging under the sun, it was just us and nature. Clean air. Wide open space. No distractions. No complications. It reminded me of what I appreciated most about being in the field; that clarity, that focus, that feeling of being completely present. For hours each day, I felt a peace I hadn't felt in a long time.

And honestly? I was living out a childhood dream. There's something incredibly satisfying about unearthing something that's been buried for millions of years, knowing you're the first person to ever hold it.

If you're a veteran looking for something different to do after getting out, I can't recommend this enough. High Plains Paleontology offers an experience that speaks to the parts of us that thrived outdoors, in the elements, doing real work with our hands. The people are wonderful, encouraging, down-to-earth, and genuinely great to be around. The entire experience was phenomenal, and I left feeling recharged in a way I didn't expect.

-Moises Enoc Navas