The ‘Scottish Fossil Code’

After two years of preparation, involving a public consultation, the Scottish Fossil Code was launched by Michael Russell the Scottish Government Environment Minister in Cromarty on April 11th 2008. Probably the first national code of its kind, the Scottish Fossil Code aims primarily to help conserve the fossil heritage of Scotland.

Fossil collecting is an essential activity that provides the basic material and data for the science of palaeontology. New finds add to our record of past life and environments on planet Earth. Following the Code will increase the personal interest and satisfaction that can be gained from forming a fossil collection, and help conserve the fossil heritage of Scotland.

The essentials of the Scottish Fossil Code:

Seek permission - You are acting within the law if you obtain permission to extract, collect and retain fossils.
Access responsibly - Consult the Scottish Outdoor Access Code prior to accessing land. Be aware that there are restrictions on access and collecting at some locations protected by statute.
Collect responsibly - Exercise restraint in the amount collected and the equipment used. Be careful not to damage fossils and the fossil resource. Record details of both the location and the rocks from which fossils are collected.
Seek advice - If you find an exceptional or unusual fossil do not try to extract it; but seek advice from an expert. Also seek help to identify fossils or dispose of an old collection.
Label and look after - Collected specimens should be labelled and taken good care of.
Donate - If you are considering donating a fossil or collection choose an Accredited museum, or one local to the collection area.

The Code and associated leaflet may be viewed and downloaded from www.snh.gov.uk . Alternatively to receive a paper copy contact:

Scottish Natural Heritage
Publications Department
Battleby
Redgorton
Perth
PH1 3EW

T: 01738 444177
e: pubs@snh.gov.uk

A specimen of the fossil fish Diplacanthus crassisimus - found at Hugh Miller's collecting locality in Cromarty, this is one of the specimens used at a workshop for pupils from Cromarty Primary School on the subject of fossils held on the occasion on the launch of the Scottish Fossil Code. © Scottish Natural Heritage.