The discovery this year of fossil remains of two different kinds of mammoths in rural Mahaska County, Iowa, has surprised and delighted paleontologists and archaeologists at the University of Iowa. Some of those fossils will be on public display Wednesday, Oct. 17, as UI researchers discuss the importance of fossils during the October edition of the UI Explorers Seminar.

The free public event will be held in the Biosphere Discovery Hub of the UI Museum of Natural History, beginning with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. and a presentation at 7 p.m. The event is part of the UI’s observance of National Fossil Day.

Sarah Horgen, education and outreach coordinator for the museum will present “The Mahaska County Mammoth Site: Excavation and Research,” detailing the UI researchers’ perspective on the importance of the discoveries and what the associated research may tell us about Iowa during the Ice Age.

UI researchers are overseeing the excavation and research associated with the discovery of the fossils, which were first uncovered in 2010 by the landowner, who approached the UI for assistance. UI Museum of Natural History staff members have been working at the site since April, aided by participants from schools and groups across the state.

As part of National Fossil Day, special fossils and touch tables will be on display in Iowa Hall. For more information, visit the museum’s website.