Excavation: Day 7

	DAY 7

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trenching around the block containing the mammoth's ribs

UCMP's Nicholas Pyenson and Samantha Hopkins return to the mammoth site on September 1, and trench around the block containing the mammoth's ribs. © 2005 UCMP

undercutting the block containing the mammoth's ribs

Samantha undercuts the block with hand tools, while Nicholas trenches. After their work, only a small pedestal will remain connecting the block to the ground. © 2005 UCMP

a burlap and plaster jacket is applied to the top of the block

After the top of the block is covered with a layer of wet paper towels, burlap and plaster jacket is applied. © 2005 UCMP

2x4s are added to the jacket to provide additional strength

2x4 boards are added to the jacket to provide additional strength. This block probably weighs about 250 pounds. The jacket will dry overnight, and workers will return tomorrow to remove the block and look for more fossils. © 2005 UCMP