259 Science and Stewardship of U.S. National Park Service Paleontological Resources (Posters)

The National Park Service continues to advance and implement strategic approaches in the management of paleontological resources. This session showcases contributions to inventorying, monitoring, research, outreach, and other aspects of management, stewardship, and science of park fossils.

Wednesday, 22 October 2025
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
HBGCC, Hall 1

Paleotería: A paleontological take on the classic Latino America game “La Lotería”

Paper number: 259-2
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Authors

  • Janet Cañamar Presenting Author
    The University of Texas at Austin, Jackson School of Geosciences, Austin, TX
  • Julia Clarke
    University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
  • Vincent Santucci
    National Park Service, Geologic Resource Division, Washington, DC
  • Justin Tweet
    National Park Service Geologic Resources Division, Cottage Grove, MN
  • Christy Visaggi
    Georgia State University, Geosciences, Atlanta, GA

Abstract

Paleotería (Pah-lee-oh-teh-ree-ah) is based on the popular Latino American game ‘La Lotería’, a traditional bingo-style game, and features boards and cards with illustrations of fossils, professions, animals, and objects related to the paleontology of many of the US National Parks. This fun fusion of science and cultural heritage makes for a perfect game night in an educational setting or a family posada! Whether you are an aspiring paleontologist or looking to learn more about Latino America, Paleotería provides something for everyone of all ages! Paleotería is designed to promote science education, cultural awareness, and entertainment to all National Park and paleontology enthusiasts. Paleotería creates an innovative and culturally relevant tool to educate visitors about national park landmarks, fossils, as well as the history and practice of paleontology. Paleotería is for Spanish speakers, audiences learning to speak Spanish, game enthusiasts, and those who are interested to learn more about Latino American culture while exploring Park paleontology. 

This project is supported by the Paleontological Society and National Park Service artist-in-residence opportunity through the Paleontology in the Parks Fellowship, a unique program where student-mentor pairs team up to work on fossil-focused projects for national parks across the country. The goal is to support students and recent graduates with a passion for both science and creativity! Fellows help bring paleontology to life through educational and outreach materials that make learning fun, engaging, and accessible. While past fellowship projects have mostly focused on fossil inventories, the program is now branching out into new territory such as blending art and paleontology to reach more people in exciting, meaningful ways. From creating Spanish-language resources like the Junior Paleontologist Activity Booklet to developing new tools that connect with wide audiences, this program is opening doors for fresh ideas and storytelling about our national fossil treasures.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 57, No. 6

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-413277

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