Our Mission

CCP accomplishes this mission through three aims:

(1) Conserve the Charleston Tri-County Area’s important fossil resources

The Charleston embayment is one of the most important fossil exposures in the US. Its fossil record spans 40 million years and can show us how animals adapted to the environmental pressures of changing ecosystems throughout that time, from cold, deep prehistoric oceans to our warm, modern marshes.

The Tri-County Area is the center of rapid residential and commercial development, and there is a significant risk that the paleontological resources underneath will be lost forever. CCP acquires and places in conservation properties of scientific importance so that they can be preserved and studied. Excavation is conducted sustainably and responsibly, and preserves the land with minimal disturbance to the local ecosystem.

(2) Drive research on the paleontology of the Charleston Tri-County Area forward

Fossil-rich strata in Charleston preserve two unique periods in the evolution of vertebrates: the origin of whales and dolphins as a response to global cooling during the first Antarctic glaciation (30-23 million years ago), and the origin of modern species in the context of climatic fluctuations during the beginning of the ice ages (2.5-1 million years ago). The study of fossil assemblages and the response of marine ecosystems to dramatic oceanographic and climatic changes may provide insight into the vulnerabilities – and resiliency – of modern species and fisheries affected by climate change, ocean acidification, and overfishing.

CCP works both as an independent research center and as a bridge between Charleston and the larger academic community. Its staff have expertise in fieldwork, excavation, preparation, species identification, and conservation. Its partnerships foster collaborations with research institutions throughout the globe, and elevate the importance of SC paleontology to the global stage.

(3) Provide educational opportunities for the community to engage with the Charleston Tri-County Area paleontology

There is widespread enthusiasm for amateur paleontology in the local community, and Charleston has become a tourist destination for fossil hunters. CCP provides workshops and outreach services to local schools to provide hands-on workshops in paleontology principles to inspire the next generation of STEM enthusiasts. CCP also works with special interest groups to educate the general public about the science behind their hobby and how to collect responsibly.