New Utah dinosaur dig marks end of an era

Key Points:

• Paleontologists from the Utah Geological Survey have begun excavating the Ironstone Bonebed in Utah, a significant Cretaceous-era dinosaur site that may shed light on post-Jurassic extinction events.
• The site has already revealed fossils from at least four different dinosaur species, with extensive material that could require decades of research to fully explore.
• Don DeBlieux, Utah's assistant state paleontologist, plans to retire at the end of the year, marking the likely final field season alongside longtime colleague Jim Kirkland.
• Despite retiring from his state position, DeBlieux intends to continue paleontology work, viewing it as a lifelong passion rather than just a job.
• A newly discovered armored dinosaur species at the site is expected to be named in honor of DeBlieux, commemorating his 25 years of contributions to Utah's paleontological research.