Re: The Dinosaur Egg Debate

[NEIL CLARK <NCLARK@museum.gla.ac.uk>]

I know of another type '4' profiteer that provides specimens for 
science that would not normally be availible.  Whose researches are 
funded by the fossils they sell to scientific institutions.  Some of 
these people are professional amateurs who are dedicated to advancing 
the study of palaeontology whilst also making a living out of it.  
Many of them live close to the bread line or end up heavily in debt 
because of their concern.  I believe that certain people should be 
rewarded for their efforts.  Gone are the days when this museum could 
afford to have its own team of collectors paid for by the museum.  
Now are the days when such work is 'contracted' or that we rely on 
professional amateurs and goodwill.

It is important, though, that a regulatory body is formed that can 
look after and protect palaeontological specimens and localities for 
all palaeontologists (whatever you wish to classify them as).  In 
Scotland we have a regulatory body that classifies geological sites 
but has no power to protect nor the funding to look after these 
sites.  I have been trying to lobby public opinion in this country 
with limited success so far, but these things take time I guess. 

Anyway, lets not brand all commercial dealers with the same brand, 
nor all hobbyists either.  He who chucks the first fossil...etc, 
etc....

Neil

Neil Clark
Curator of Palaeontology
Hunterian Museum
University of Glasgow
email: NCLARK@museum.gla.ac.uk

Mountains are found in erogenous zones.
(Geological Howlers - ed. WDI Rolfe)