Large numbers of fossil angiosperm logs have recently been discovered in the Turonian Moreno Hill Formation of New Mexico. This find represents one of the few Cretaceous sites known where large fossil dicotyledonous tree trunks have been preserved. The distinctive nature of the site is enhanced by its association with an unusual North American dinosaur fauna that appears to have Asian affinities. The intent of this research project is to conduct a taphonomic study of this highly unusual fossil log assemblage in order to reconstruct the physiognomy, paleoenvironment, taxonomic composition, and depositional history of the ancient angiosperm forest. This information will shed light on the nature of early broad-leaved forests and provide a three-dimensional paleocological context for an atypical dinosaur fauna.
