The application of Ground Penetrating Radar as a mapping technique at vertebrate fossil excavations in the Cretaceous of Texas

In order to develop a new field method for the science of paleontology, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) surveys were conducted at two sauropod (Dinosauria) quarries in the Cretaceous rocks of Texas. These sites were chosen due to the presence of vertebrate fossils and the varying lithologic settings. The surveys were conducted using a Pulse EKKO transmitter and receiver antennae pair at varying frequencies. Higher survey frequencies allow for greater resolution at the cost of decreased survey penetration depth. Anomalies detected in the subsurface were plotted on quarry maps. The GPR-enhanced maps were then given to paleontological field teams to guide their excavation efforts. Fossils were accurately located and excavated using this technique.