The Edelman Fossil Park & Museum (EFM) of Rowan University is set to open its doors in March 2025, providing an unparalleled journey through Earth's prehistoric past. Located at 66 Million Mosasaur Way in southern New Jersey, just minutes from Philadelphia, the state-of-the-art facility focuses on the age of dinosaurs and the catastrophic asteroid impact that led to their extinction 66 million years ago. What sets EFM apart is its unique feature: the only known preserved fossil ecosystem from the exact moment of this cataclysmic event, offering scientists and visitors a snapshot of life at one of Earth's most pivotal moments.
Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, founding executive director of EFM, emphasized the significance of the site: "This is not just a museum—it's a gateway to a breathtaking chapter of Earth's history. Here, we open a window onto the profound and pivotal events of the fifth mass extinction, during which the dinosaurs and 75% of species perished, shaping the modern world as we know it."
The museum boasts an impressive array of features designed to engage visitors of all ages. Immersive galleries showcase stunning reconstructions of giant prehistoric species and their environments. The hands-on Discovery Forest and Critter Cove with live animal encounters provide interactive learning experiences. Perhaps most exciting is the opportunity for visitors to participate in real fossil digs, both in the museum's indoor fossil hunt powered by RFID technology and in the active research quarry on-site. Additional attractions include a free-roaming virtual reality experience, a museum store, café, theater, scenic nature trails, and a paleontology-themed playground.
The location in southern New Jersey is particularly significant due to the region's rich paleontological history. Over 100,000 fossils from more than 100 species have been unearthed at the site, including remains of mosasaurs, marine crocodiles, sea turtles, and sharks. This wealth of prehistoric material underscores the area's importance in understanding Earth's past.
Beyond its role as an educational institution, EFM is committed to promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness. The facility is designed with eco-friendly features, including geothermal and electric systems that significantly reduce its carbon footprint. This focus on sustainability extends to the museum's mission, which aims to inspire visitors to take action towards creating a greener future for our planet.
The creation of EFM was made possible through a generous donation from Rowan University alumni Jean & Ric Edelman. The design team includes Ennead Architects, KSS Architects, and G&A, with landscape design by SEED Design/Yaki Miodovnik. For more information about the museum and upcoming ticket sales, interested parties can visit efm.org.
