Montana Dinosaur Expedition

The whole thing was incredible. The first day was a washout do to rain and Joe apologized and I said to him, "This is like fishing. You could go out all day and not catch a fish or even a nibble but it is still a great day." if all three day were like the first, I would have no complaints. But they weren’t. Joe came to the conclusion that we were excavating a torosaurse and not a triceratops, Joe was happy about that. Judy and Tim were so nice I felt like they were my Aunt and Uncle.

I had a fantastic time, and learned a lot. Joey and Jason are fantastic at what they do, and I was really able to ask a lot and learn a lot. I was able to bring the learning up to my level by interacting with them (relentlessly - I'm sure J&J are glad I am gone!!! HA) rather than being limited by some of the other participants who are newbies to geology. After having taken a waste of time geology class earlier this year, I was quite nervous about the possibility that I would be "wasting" more money, but I certainly got my $$'s worth in Montana! Plus I love Montana, so that was nice too. The Lervicks were fantastic hosts as well - packing on the pounds with yummy food 3 meals a day. And they put me up the first night also when I arrived without luggage. Natalie

My son, Alec, is a dinosaur fanatic so I knew he would be excited about digging for real dinosaur bones. We were warmly greeted at base camp and from there I knew we were in for a wonderful day. Out first site visit began with Joey explaining how to tell the difference between a bone and a rock. Alec has now begun to educate everyone he can on this task!! Throughout the day, Joey and Jessica were both so wonderful. They taught us so much and were both exceptionally patient and kind to Alec. The highlight for Alec was sitting down with Joey and working on the frill bones, using real paleontologist tools – a big thing for a 5 year old!! The highlight for me was seeing my son so happy to be doing something that he has so much passion for and doing it for real, not just as a game! I was actually sad to leave so soon. It’s been two weeks since our dig and Alec still talks incessantly about it. Our experience was AWESOME. I hope to go back again some day – maybe even next year! Dawn Dohs

"I've been fortunate enough to have many great bonding experiences with my son, but this was the best - bar none. We learned a lot, helped find and excavate some scientifically important fossils, and best of all, had FUN. Joey Hatcher is a gem - very knowledgable about paleontology and at the same time very patient and helpful with us amateurs, especially the kids. We have been a nonstop talking advertisement of your program since our return. THANKS for an experience both my son and I will remember forever."

Phoebe and I had a wonderful time at the dig--as usual! The excitement of the dig was matched only by the incredible hospitality of Judy and Tim, and the graciousness, patience and teaching expertise of Joey, Jessica and Sean. Thanks to everyone! We'll definitely see you again next year! Warmly, Audrey