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“The Mammoth Site is not just a window into the past—it’s as close to being a true time machine as you’ll find, with some of the best ice-age fossils on the planet on permanent display.”
Ross MacPhee,
Division of Vertebrate Zoology,
American Museum of Natural History, New York City.

Mission, Purpose, Vision

Mission Statement

The mission is the preservation, research, and interpretation of the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, South Dakota and the promotion of understanding and appreciation of the Natural History of the Black Hills with an emphasis on the late Pleistocene.

Purpose

1. To investigate and interpret this unique late Pleistocene (Ice Age) natural death trap for mammoths and related fauna and flora.
2. To protect the scientific integrity of the Site through the preservation and collection management of fossils and other geological materials.
3. To serve as a world-class center specializing in mammoth research.
4. To provide comprehensive educational programming based on the science of the Site and surrounding natural history.
5. To foster cooperative efforts in research and education worldwide.

Vision Statement

The vision of the Mammoth Site has always been to establish a significant institution contributing to scientific knowledge and sharing that knowledge with the public.  That knowledge is shared through programs, exhibits, publications and professional scientific interactions directed toward the introduction and engagement of all people to the world of the Pleistocene (Ice Age).  Our aim is to continue to be a world class science center that will remain viable and relevant for generations to come.