| The Rainbow Forest Museum has examples of fossils and depositional environments (such as this early carnivorous raptor-like dinosaur, Coelophysis, from the Late Triassic) (NPS, 2006b). Petrified Forest National Park and the surrounding Painted Desert is the target of paleontological investigations, and is considered one of the world's most significant fossil resource areas. Today, collecting of fossils is illegal on public lands in the region and research programs are closely monitored to ensure both the quality and professional character of scientific investigation. However, the National Park Service also ensures that the public can share in the enjoyment of these protected resources, and the creativity of exploration. |
