Sensational fossil find at Slemmestad, Norway

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the recent discovery of a large fossil site from the Ordovician era at Slemmestad, Norway. Participants explore the implications of this find, including its significance and potential for further exploration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the accidental uncovering of a 3000 square meter area filled with fossils, including trilobites and graptolites.
  • Another expresses curiosity about whether the site will be explored further.
  • A participant mentions that paleontologists are currently unsure about how to proceed with the site due to the unexpected nature of the find.
  • There is a discussion about the significance of the find, with one participant explaining that the size and density of fossils make it unique in Norway and rare internationally.
  • Concerns are raised about the implications for local soccer plans, with a humorous suggestion about the potential for discovering larger fossils.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the significance of the fossil find, but there is uncertainty regarding the next steps for exploration and the impact on local activities. Multiple viewpoints about the implications of the discovery are present.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not yet established a clear plan for the exploration of the site, and there are unresolved questions regarding the future of local soccer activities in light of the discovery.

arildno
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By a fortuitous accident, a 3000 square meters area brimful of fossils from the ordovicium era has been uncovered at Slemmestad.

The local soccer enthusiasts had been given permission to clear a hillside of trees and heather in order to build a seating area for the public (is that called a "tribune" in English??)

Once they had done so, a magnificent orthocer chalk area had been uncovered, with thousands of trilobites, graptolites, brachiopodes and other fossils being visible in the surface layer.

Here is a couple of photographs:
http://geoaktuelt.no/geoaktuelt/undervisning/undervisni/sensasjone/
 
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What a great find. I wonder if they will explore it in depth.
 
It is too early to tell. Our paleontologists are a bit stunned at this find, and have yet to develop visions for what to do with the site.
 
nice ammonite - why is this a "sensational" find, I cannot read the text?
 
mack_10 said:
nice ammonite - why is this a "sensational" find, I cannot read the text?
The sensationality is primarily connected to the size of the field, and the high density of fossils contained there.

Such a big&rich field is completely unique in Norway, and rare internationally.

Besides, on the local national level, several species have already been found that have not been previously in Norway's fossil record.
 
Bad news for a local soccer fans. Do they have plan B? If plan A meant ammonites, execution of plan B may mean fossilized brontosaurus.