Discovering Prehistoric Wonders: Bromacker Fossil Site Funding Secured for 2023
Germany commits to advancing Bromacker studies in 202X this year - Nation persists in backing Bromacker studies throughout current year
Tilo Kummer, Thuringia's Environment Minister, has announced that the state will be allocating approximately €500,000 for the Bromacker fossil site in the Thuringian Forest this year. With the federal project drawing to a close in the summer, the state will carry on funding with own funds. The ministry revealed this news to the German Press Agency.
Bromacker is a treasure trove of ancient finds, being the most significant paleontological excavation site for early reptiles in Europe. "We've got a unique spot right here in Thuringia," says Minister Kummer, emphasizing the responsibility the state bears for preserving this valuable site. Negotiations are underway with the federal government to secure additional funding to facilitate research beyond the current state subsidy.
Step back in time through the Permian...
Since 2020, an international team of experts in geology, paleontology, and geoscientific preparation has spent four weeks each year uncovering new relics of the prehistoric era. Fossils from the Permian period, around 290 million years ago, have been discovered, long before the emergence of dinosaurs. The annual expeditions have already unveiled over 1,500 finds, several new biological genera and species详细描述.
The federal government has invested around €6 million till 2025 in research on early terrestrial vertebrate evolution. This five-year project involves the collaboration of the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin, the Friedenstein Foundation Gotha, the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, and the UNESCO Global Geopark Thuringia Inselsberg-Drei Gleichen.
A hands-on learning experience...
The remarkably well-preserved fossils offer insights into the development of early land-dwelling vertebrates, insects, and plants in a prehistoric ecosystem. Visitors can engage with the history of fossils through an interactive learning experience at Friedenstein Castle and directly at the excavation site. Intrigued enthusiasts can witness the researchers at work this year: The summer excavation is slated to take place from June 3 to 20.
Join the adventure and delve into the mysteries of prehistoric life – the Bromacker fossil site continues to fascinate and offer valuable insights into our planet's rich past. Thuringian Forest, Thuringia, Fossils, BMU, German Press Agency Tilo Kummer.
(The Bromacker fossil site in the Thüringer Wald, Thuringia, is a globally significant paleontological location renowned for its exceptionally preserved early Permian (~290 million years ago) terrestrial fossils. Researchers continue to uncover fossils through ongoing excavations, with public participation opportunities during guided tours where visitors observe paleontologists at work. As part of the UNESCO Global Geopark Inselsberg-Drei Gleichen, Bromacker contributes to the park's mission of conservation, education, and sustainable development. Its fossils illustrate the region’s unique geological history, supporting the geopark’s status as a hub for Earth science interpretation and geotourism. The Bromacker discoveries provide unparalleled insights into pre-dinosaur ecosystems, making it a cornerstone of the geopark’s scientific and educational programs. Its integration into guided experiences exemplifies how paleontological research directly supports local geotourism initiatives.).
- For the continuation of research at the Bromacker fossil site in Thuringia, Germany, Minister Tilo Kummer is negotiating with the federal government for an additional subsidy beyond the current state subsidy.
- The state government of Thuringia has secured approximately €500,000 for the Bromacker fossil site in 2023, planning to carry on funding from the summer when the federal project concludes.
- With over 1,500 fossil finds, several new biological genera and species discovered, and a collaborative research effort involving renowned institutions like the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin, the funding secures the exploration of early terrestrial vertebrate evolution up to 2025.
- The remarkably preserved fossils at Bromacker provide valuable insights into the development of early land-dwelling organisms, insects, and plants in a prehistoric ecosystem, with interactive learning experiences available at the excavation site and Friedenstein Castle.
- The Bromacker fossil site, located in the Thüringer Wald region of Thuringia, offers an unparalleled look into pre-dinosaur ecosystems, making it a cornerstone of the UNESCO Global Geopark Inselsberg-Drei Gleichten's scientific and educational programs, and a significant attraction for visitors.