About the McAbee Fossil Beds

 The McAbee Fossil Beds have fascinated scientists and visitors alike for over a century. The first reports of fossil plants in the area were made by G.M. Dawson in the late 19th century, but systematic paleontological and geological studies did not begin until the 1960s and 1970s, led by researchers such as Len Hills and Mark Wilson. 

These early investigations laid the foundation for understanding the site's unique geological context and extraordinary fossil content. 

Since the late 1980s, significant research has continued, uncovering detailed insights into the plants, insects, and other organisms that once thrived here. 

 Formed in an ancient lake bed during the Eocene Epoch, McAbee offers a rare glimpse into a warmer Earth, long before the landscapes we know today. The site is remarkable for its exceptionally well-preserved fossils, which include plants, insects, fish, spiders, crayfish, and even birds. 

This extraordinary diversity makes McAbee one of British Columbia’s most important fossil localities, providing invaluable insights into the biodiversity and ecosystems of the Eocene.

Visitors who explore the trails are not just walking through a fossil site; they are stepping into a living record of Earth’s deep history, where every rock and imprint tells a story.

 Concerns about the potential loss of scientifically significant fossils led the Province of BC to commission paleontology expert Dr. Mark Wilson in 2007 to assess the site. His report confirmed the exceptional preservation, species diversity, and abundance of fossils at McAbee, prompting the government to take action.

In 2008, a voluntary agreement was reached with claim holders and stakeholders to preserve the most important fossils. Further surveys in 2009 reinforced the site’s significance, and in 2012, McAbee received heritage designation, ensuring the protection of its fossil resources while allowing for research, education, and responsible public access.