DAEGU — Two decades after dinosaur footprints dating back roughly 100 million years to the Cretaceous period were first uncovered along waterways in Suseong-gu, Daegu, public preservation and tourism initiatives have stalled, prompting private environmental advocates to take matters into their own hands.

Dinosaur traces were initially discovered in Uksucheon in 2002, sparking continuous calls from researchers and local lawmakers to protect and study the region's unique geological assets. By 2021, local councils urged comprehensive research following signs of localized damage to fossil beds situated between Siji Bridge 1 and Siji Bridge 2 along Maehocheon.

To evaluate these sites, the Suseong-gu district office invested roughly 20 million won in a 2022 research project. The study identified 54 fossil footprints across Maehocheon, Uksucheon, and Mount Muhak. Highlighting Maehocheon—where 27 dinosaur and bipedal crocodile tracks were found—the researchers recommended seeking official city cultural heritage status, alongside suggestions for protective infrastructure and drainage upgrades.

Despite these recommendations, official progress has stalled over the past four years due to concerns regarding nearby development restrictions and administrative delays. Public outreach has also dwindled; the nearby Gosan Library scaled back its popular "Dinosaur School" program, reducing field trips to a single session this year following curriculum consolidations.

Stepping into the gap, the Yeongnam Natural Ecology Conservation Association conducted an independent field inspection of Maehocheon last September and announced plans to launch hands-on educational programs for the public.

The conservation group notes that Maehocheon's Cretaceous-era sedimentary rock layers and well-preserved trackways provide an ideal outdoor classroom. Upcoming programs will invite students and local residents to examine ancient sedimentary structures firsthand and experience traditional fossil-rubbing techniques using traditional ink and paper.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]