NJ Fossils, Agony Creek

[BillkNJ]

Well, I have been interested in looking for fossils for some time now. Well, I found out a guy at my work is into it, and he gave me some pointers and help me out a bit. In the process of looking around on the web for some info on the area I'm in, Central NJ by the ocean, I found this link: Digging Up Valuable Fossils in Suburban New Jersey: Scientific American
It mentions a place called (they call it this) "Agony Creek", well I was able to locate it by cross referencing some pdf's and some other online databases.
Though I now know what to look for, where to look (geographically), I still don't know the finer things as far as, how far down to dig and sift, the color of soils I should be searching for the best results, various things like that, that are often picked up over time. Basically I'm looking for pointers, or anyone who knows the Agony creek area that I could meet there to show me the ropes. (I won't give out the creeks location for those who just want to clear it out. If you want to meet me there I will do so.)

Thanks in advance,
Bill

 

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[Ninjafossils]

Never heard of agony creek, but hope it's not an agony X). U should check out the big brook website. They've got very helpful hints and tips for digging jersey rivers. If u find something u need Identifing, I'm your guy. I've been hunting that neck of the woods for over a decade

 

[NJnuggetpirate]

Never heard of agony creek, but hope it's not an agony X). U should check out the big brook website. They've got very helpful hints and tips for digging jersey rivers. If u find something u need Identifing, I'm your guy. I've been hunting that neck of the woods for over a decade

Ninja I found out dryptosaurus was found somewhere In Glouster county Nj which is awesome that's maybe a half hour from me

 

[Ninjafossils]

Ninja I found out dryptosaurus was found somewhere In Glouster county Nj which is awesome that's maybe a half hour from me

Cool beans

 

[NJnuggetpirate]

Cool beans

Right lol

 

[BillkNJ]

Thanks for the replies. I have done some walking in the area, just trying to see if anything was left high and dry and has been exposed during low water, prior to the rains we are experiencing now... Once the rains and holiday has passed I will be back out there.
I'm not sure how I should go about the digging, there are houses along the creek, and the fence lines seem to be about 6-10 ft away from the creek itself (in a straight line, so I'm fairly confident that the property lines end there). I don't think I should have any issues with disgruntled homeowners as I should not be on their property, any tips if any do come out concerned, or angry?
As far as to why they call it agony creek, there are thorns Everywhere! It is rediculous how many there are, I got cuts from them in just the one pass through I did, through my jeans. It was agonizing... I am Not looking forward to the spring there...

 

[Vikingblood]

Are you talking about the spot in new Egypt?

 

[NJnuggetpirate]

Bilknj mastodon bones have been found near Salem over there near the Mannington

 

[BillkNJ]

It's in the Freehold area, but due to the fact that the paper I had to cross reference was from one of the leading natural history museums in the county, and even They didn't mention the exact location, I am hesitant to do so.

I know I'm asking a lot for the little information that I am offering in return. Though I am not sure if they were keeping the name under wraps for any particular reason, either pilferage or land rights or something else I can't think of.
~Bill

 

[Vikingblood]

Is there a river in your freehold spot? If so go there first note the color and textures of the soil along to the bank of the river or creek. Generally in NJ you look for green or chocolate marl then dig and sift if you want marine fossils, you might find later mammal fossils there as well.

If there is no river or creek then look for already existing holes, the bottom of slopes, the pits of valleys and just dig, dig and then dig some more.

I'm not into just digging dry ground in NJ , but if ya find a creek or brook with chocolate or green marl, let me know I will come sift with ya.

I can take you to my spot anytime you want I have found nice stuff there mostly marine and wood fossils with a few mammal fossils as well. But it,s a hike in very trying conditions to say the least you gotta be healthy and a bit adventurous.

Let me know

Erik

 

[BillkNJ]

There is a creek there, but I have yet to be able to get back to the area since my original post. If you take a look at the link in my original post I show what got me looking for the area.
I will be looking to dig there in probably about 2 weeks maybe 3, weather dependant. Erik, I will be in touch prior to going. Thanks for the input folks. I will keep you updated.