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USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum seeks members to support operations amid budget cuts

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A macro photograph of a fossilized texture in low museum lighting, symbolizing the preservation of history through support and funding.
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The USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum is seeking new members to help sustain operations following major budget cuts. Membership funds support the protection and exhibition of the fossil and archaeological record of eastern Utah.

Key takeaways

  • The Prehistoric Museum relies on memberships and admission fees due to major budget cuts.
  • Membership funds support the exhibition of eastern Utah's fossil and archaeological records.
  • Annual tiers range from $25 for individuals to $25,000 for the Mammoth Club.
  • Higher-tier memberships provide access to the ASTC Passport Program and ROAM Reciprocal Membership Program.

The USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum is calling for community support through its membership program to offset major budget cuts. The museum relies on membership and admission fees to maintain operations and continue its educational mission.

Past funding impact

Membership contributions have previously funded the update of the Utahraptor skeleton in the lobby, the renovation of the Fremont Pithouse diorama in the Hall of Archaeology, and the construction of a new pithouse for the Children's Discovery area.

Individual membership details

Several annual membership tiers are available to supporters. An Individual Membership costs $25 and provides unlimited admission to the USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum, the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, and the Moab Museum for one person. This tier also includes a 10% discount at the museum gift shop, exclusive invitations to special events, and a 33% discount on museum classroom rentals.

Family membership benefits

A Family Membership is available for $40, covering up to two adults and dependent children living in the same residence. It includes the same gift shop discounts, event invitations, and rental discounts as the individual tier.

Premium membership levels

Higher-level memberships include the Utahraptor Member level at $100 and the Allosaurus Member level at $500. Both tiers include standard family benefits plus free admission for up to 10 additional guests per visit. The Utahraptor and Allosaurus levels also grant access to the ROAM Reciprocal Membership Program and the ASTC Passport Program. The Allosaurus tier specifically offers a choice between four Family Day Passes or 12 Individual Day Passes, along with a plaque of recognition.

Global museum benefits

The Prehistoric Museum is now an ASTC member, allowing Utahraptor and Allosaurus members to access benefits at over 100 participating science and technology centers worldwide through the ASTC Passport Program.

Major contribution clubs

For those seeking larger contribution levels, the museum offers the Eolambia Club at $1,000, the Gastonia burgei Club at $5,000, the Falcarius Utahensis Club at $10,000, and the Mammoth Club at $25,000.

Membership cards are sent via mail and may take 7 to 10 days to arrive. The museum does not offer digital membership cards.

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