Surveyors use drone technology to map dinosaur footprints in Sunland Park

SUNLAND PARK, New Mexico (KVIA) -- Surveyors, paleontologists, and students from El Paso-area high schools gathered at the base of Mt. Cristo Rey Wednesday to witness new technology first-hand that will help detect ancient fossil sites.

Researchers used drones to map and survey the land to help identify fossil sites, including dinosaur footprints, that may not be visible to the naked eye.

The Brickland Mining District Dinosaur Footprint Mapping Project began at 11 a.m. Wednesday.

Insights Science Discovery, Dr. Eric Kappus, Southwest University, and the Texas Society of Professional Surveyors, Paso Del Norte, Chapter 17 were all present for the research project.

Live presentations and demonstrations were given to students and members of the public who attended.

"This collaboration between technology and science is paving the way for a new era in paleontology, with the potential to uncover fossils that have been hidden for millions of years," said Alysha Swann in a statement. She's the executive director of the project.

"With survey drones, researchers can cover more ground, identify new sites, and ultimately uncover new discoveries that will deepen our understanding of the history of life on Earth and what took place in our area," she added.