data storage

[Casey Burns <cburns@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Since this discussion focuses on storage of data, what about the 
reliability and safety of the storage of our basic data set: that is, the 
fossils themselves....? Looking through a number of references (such as 
Weaver's monograph on NW invertebrates), several types are recorded as 
lost or mislabelled. What happens when a university decides to close its 
paleo department? I know of one collector who probably has several new 
species in his collection, who may be somewhat reluctant to give them up 
until he has personally had a chance to describe them. What happens when 
his house is destroyed in an earthquake or some other catastrophe (or 
when the Hayward fault finally gives up)? As paleontologists, we have 
made the world aware of catastrophes. Sh.. happens. Think about it.

Just a few thoughts....
Casey Burns