RFID Technology for Fossil Tracking and Preservation

This case study outlines the implementation of RFID technology in the tracking and preservation of fossils by the Earth Sciences Foundation (ESF) and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. The traditional method of using field notebooks for documenting fossil information often leads to data loss and inconsistencies, complicating the retrieval and analysis of specimens. The new system integrates RFID tags from HID and GIS mapping software from Esri, creating a comprehensive tracking solution. The process involves tagging fossils with RFID identifiers, capturing essential data through ArcGIS Survey123, and ensuring secure transport and ongoing tracking. This innovative approach has resulted in significant efficiency gains, with the excavation team cataloging 347 fossils in just five days. The solution has improved workflows by 80%, allowing field technicians to focus on research and conservation. The RFID system has provided near-perfect accuracy in tracking fossil movement, enabling real-time visibility of bone status throughout the preservation process.