<P> In 1974, a construction worker, George Hanson, unearthed unusual bones while the area was being prepared for a new subdivision . His son recognized one of the finds as a mammoth tooth . </P> <P> The landowner Phil Anderson agreed to further investigation, and a complete skull and tusk were found in 1974 . Phil Anderson agreed to donate the entire bone bed and mineral rights to the nonprofit organization and along with the work performed by amateur and professional excavators, led to its status as a museum, and it was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1980 . Initially the finds were mapped on a string grid; since then the mapping systems have increasingly relied on computerized technologies . </P> <P> The Mammoth Site is a 501 (c) - 3 non-profit organization . The museum is open to the public . Earthwatch volunteers participate in excavations during July . The museum's visiting scientists have included specialists from Mexico, Italy, Netherlands, Great Britain, Russia, and Germany . The museum also houses a collection of Clovis and Folsom artifacts. and sponsors outreach programs for students from elementary to graduate - school levels . </P>

The mammoth site of hot springs. south dakota inc