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The ‘Scottish Fossil Code’

Fossils are an irreplaceable and finite resource used for scientific investigation, education, recreation and commercial purposes. However, this element of Scotland’s geological heritage is vulnerable to abuse and damage and consequently requires safeguarding and considered management to ensure its survival for future generations. In order to help achieve this The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004, gave Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) the duty of preparing a code to be known as the ‘Scottish Fossil Code’.

SNH considers that fossil collecting and its continuation in Scotland, is vital for the advancement of palaeontology and the development of geological science generally. However, collecting for whatever purpose should be undertaken responsibly, with due care given to the fossil-resource, collected fossils and fossil collections. The Scottish Fossil Code will therefore provide guidance on best practice in the collection, identification, conservation, disposition and storage of fossil specimens found in Scotland. The Code is intended to encourage fossil collectors institutional, academic, amateur and commercial, to collect responsibly and to manage collections in such a way that they will be useful to future generations.

The Code will comprise:

  • An introduction to fossils, the fossil heritage of Scotland and the legalities of collecting.
  • The provision of general guidance for collectors on responsible collecting.
  • Further guidance for various specialist groups and others with a particular involvement with Scotland’s fossil heritage.
  • Advice on donating fossil specimens to museums and general information on the role of museum and other public bodies in the care and maintenance of fossil collections in Scotland.
  • Sources of further information including the identification, collection and care of fossils.

A draft version of the Scottish Fossil Code is available for public
consultation until the 7th of September 2007. SNH would like to know your
views. To see the draft code and to take part in the consultation visit www.snh.org.uk.

 
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