Visit Grand Canyon Archeological Sites Hidden For Centuries.

Summary

The video explores the rich archaeological history of the Grand Canyon, where Native peoples have lived for over 12,000 years. It highlights recent preservation efforts following the challenges posed by Glen Canyon Dam, which has altered natural sedimentation and increased erosion. The project, involving collaboration between the National Park Service and Native American tribes, aims to excavate and protect threatened cultural sites. Through hands-on excavations and public engagement, the project not only preserves artifacts but also deepens understanding of the region's human history, emphasizing the sacred connection many tribes have with the canyon.

Takeaways

• 🏞️ Native peoples have lived in the Grand Canyon for over 12,000 years, adapting to its challenging environment.
• 🏛️ Archaeological evidence from the Pueblo period, over 1,000 years ago, is still visible within the park.
• 🔍 An intensive archaeological inventory conducted in 1990-1991 identified over 400 cultural sites along the Colorado River.
• 🌊 The construction of Glen Canyon Dam in 1963 altered natural water flow and sedimentation, leading to increased erosion of archaeological sites.
• ⚠️ In 2006, the National Park Service identified nine sites threatened by erosion and human visitation, necessitating urgent excavation efforts.
• 🤝 The project involved collaboration with eleven Native American tribes, integrating their input and cultural perspectives into archaeological practices.
• 🛶 Excavations required extensive manual labor, with crews using traditional methods to access fragile and remote sites.
• 📅 The project was the first extensive excavation in the park in over 40 years, providing new insights into the cultural history of the river corridor.
• 📦 Artifacts and data collected during excavations will be analyzed and preserved, contributing to the understanding of ancient life in the canyon.
• 🌱 After excavations, sites were backfilled and revegetated to minimize erosion, ensuring that the landscape is protected for future generations.

Q & A

How long have Native peoples inhabited the Grand Canyon?

Native peoples have inhabited the Grand Canyon for approximately 12,000 years.

What types of archaeological sites have been identified in Grand Canyon National Park?

Over 400 archaeological sites have been identified, with many showing signs of multiple occupations from various cultural backgrounds.

What significant change has occurred due to the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam?

The construction of the Glen Canyon Dam has altered the natural water flow of the Colorado River, leading to reduced sedimentation and increased erosion of cultural sites.

What was the purpose of the intensive inventory launched in 1990 and 1991?

The purpose was to find evidence of cultural resources along the river corridor, which resulted in identifying over 400 sites.

How did archaeologists involve Native American tribes in their excavation projects?

Archaeologists met with eleven Native American tribes to gather input on their approach to excavation and the preservation of artifacts.

What were the conditions like for archaeologists during the excavation process?

All excavation was done by hand due to the fragility and remote location of the sites, requiring significant manual labor to move tons of sand.

What educational opportunities were provided to the public during the excavation project?

Over 2000 visitors on raft trips were given opportunities to observe the excavation process and view a traveling exhibit of artifacts and professional photos.

What types of artifacts were collected during the excavation?

Artifacts included ceramics, lithics, pollen, and soil samples, which will be analyzed for further understanding of past human life in the canyon.

How does the project contribute to the preservation of cultural history?

The project helps preserve and understand the cultural history of the Grand Canyon, ensuring that knowledge of past human activities is maintained despite environmental challenges.

What is the significance of tribal participation in the excavation process?

Tribal participation is vital as it respects the cultural significance of the river corridor, ensuring that the perspectives and knowledge of Native American communities are integrated into the archaeological work.