Destination
Paleobotany and Palynology in Calgary
Palaeobotany in Canada has a rich history, with a legacy stretching back before Canada became a nation. The discipline was shaped by the scientific endeavors of pioneering scientists such as J.W. Dawson, G.M. Dawson, and D.P. Penhallow. The fossil record of plants in Canada, spanning much of the Phanerozoic, is rich and extensive, with discoveries made all across the country. Alberta is no exception to this rich and extensive fossil record.
Many prominent Calgary-based palynologists have also greatly advanced the field, such as Len V. Hills, Stanley A.J. Pocock and Chaitanya Singh. Although famous for its dinosaur fossils, the province also boasts an abundance of well-preserved fossil floras and palynofloras from the Late Devonian, Early Cretaceous, Late Cretaceous, the K-Pg boundary, and Paleocene.
About Calgary
Calgary is situated near the spectacular Rocky Mountains which correspond to a fold and thrust belt on the eastern side of the Canadian Cordillera, and on the western side of the vast expanse of the Canadian prairies, which are the surface expression of the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin. Calgary is a vibrant and welcoming city that combines the amenities of a modern urban centre with easy access to some of Canada’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Visitors can explore a thriving arts and cultural scene, diverse restaurants, extensive pathway networks, and numerous parks and green spaces. Located less than an hour from the Rocky Mountains, Calgary also serves as a gateway to world-renowned destinations such as Banff and Dinosaur Provincial Park.
There are five UNESCO World Heritage Sites with geological significance within an easy day trip from Calgary. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park contains thousands of petroglyphs in 50 locations dating back over 5,000 years. Dinosaur Provincial Park preserves exceptional fossils representing over 50 types of dinosaurs, in addition to its excellent riparian habitats and beautiful badland landscapes. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is located where the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains meet the Great Plains. It is one of the best-preserved and largest buffalo jumps and includes an impressive museum depicting the cultural significance of the site to the Blackfoot First Nation. The Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, comprising Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks, together with Mount Robson, Mount Assiniboine, and Hamber Provincial Parks, encompass some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America.
The region is also home to the world-famous Burgess Shale, whose extraordinarily preserved fossils have transformed our understanding of the early evolution and diversification of animal life. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park spans the Canada–United States border and combines Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta with Glacier National Park in Montana; it is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery, pristine lakes, unique geology, abundant wildlife, and exceptional biodiversity.
Discover attractions, dining, events, and local experiences to make the most of your time in Calgary!