2013 flood uncovers never-before-seen dinosaur fossil

Authorities at the Royal Tyrrell Museum are now studying a fossil specimen they believe belongs to a new species of hadrosaur. The fossil was uncovered during the 2013 floods in the Castle River. (Supplied/Government of Alberta)

It’s been over a year since flood waters wreaked havoc all over Southern Alberta, but the wonders uncovered don’t seem to cease.

A pair of fishermen in the area of Castle River came across a large block of stone with a series of fossils encased inside.

Authorities at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, who examined the find, say the stone was likely dislodged from the Castle River bank during the 2013 floods.

Scientists believe the fossil, which consists of a partial dinosaur skull, neck, and chest, belongs to a new species of hadrosaur that roamed the province about 80 million years ago.

Maureen Kubinec, Alberta’s Minister of Alberta Culture and Tourism, has thanked the fishermen for reporting the find properly. “Thanks to their diligence and assistance, all Albertans and visitors from around the world will now have an opportunity to share in this exciting discovery.”

Staff believes the skull is intact and in its original shape, which is surprising because fossils are often found crushed and flattened.

Officials say that this fossil is just one of many specimens found over the summer in the Oldman River, Highwood River, Sheep River, and Bow River systems. They will all be undergoing analysis throughout next year.

Residents who believe they have found a fossil should report their find to the Royal Tyrrell Museum so they can be properly marked and preserved.