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Paleontological History of the Upper Midwest

Journey back into Earth's ancient history and discover the life that once lived in the Upper Midwest with geologist/paleontologist Jason Rehorst.

Learn about the rocks found in Wisconsin and Illinois and what they tell us about ancient organisms that once roamed the area. Attendees will also learn about new fossil finds and the museums where they can be found. From the beginnings of life to the megafauna of the Ice Age, fossils show evidence of the dramatic changes that have taken place in the Midwest over the last 4.6 billion years.

Jason Rehorst is a Wisconsin geologist / paleontologist who curates many education exhibits throughout Wisconsin and Illinois after his long-time employment at a large museum of natural history. Rehorst has been interested in minerals and fossils since when, as a young boy, he would pick up small stones and pebbles for his collection on family outings. He pursued his love of geology in college while studying geophysics with an emphasis on paleontology. He worked as a curatorial assistant in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Thomas A. Greene Geological Museum. After college he was able to hone his geology knowledge while working in a natural history museum for 15 years. He now shares his knowledge of the geological sciences and the Earth's ancient history by making portions of his large personal collection available for public viewing through educational traveling displays, public lectures and programs. In addition, he assists local museums throughout the region in organizing exhibits regarding geology as well as other historical topics.

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