Archaeology graduate students Cody Newton from the University of Colorado at Boulder and Brendon Asher from the University of Kansas have embarked on an extraordinary excavation at the Ziegler Reservoir near Snowmass Village. This archaeological dig is quickly becoming one of the most significant finds in North America, with the potential to rewrite our understanding of prehistoric life on the continent.

The discovery of a well-preserved mammoth skeleton at the Ziegler Reservoir has sent shockwaves through the archaeological community, offering a rare glimpse into the distant past of North America. The mammoth, believed to be thousands of years old, was found in remarkable condition, with its bones largely intact and its tusks still protruding from the earth.

For Newton and Asher, the excavation represents the culmination of years of study and research, as well as the opportunity of a lifetime to uncover the secrets of North America’s ancient inhabitants. As they meticulously unearth the mammoth skeleton, they are piecing together clues about its life, its habitat, and its eventual demise, shedding light on the mysteries of the past.

The significance of the mammoth discovery extends beyond its scientific value, offering a window into the rich tapestry of life that once thrived in the Snowmass Village area. As researchers analyze the remains and study the surrounding sediment layers, they hope to gain insights into the climate, ecology, and human interactions of prehistoric North America.

Already, the Ziegler Reservoir excavation has yielded a wealth of valuable information, including other Ice Age fossils, ancient artifacts, and evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. Each new discovery adds to our understanding of the complex and dynamic history of the continent, challenging long-held assumptions and expanding our knowledge of the past.