Oregon - Malheur NF
Closed! Silvies River Survey Project
OR-4261
August 17-21, 2015
Must commit to full session
Join us this summer on the Malheur National Forest for another hike into the past! This year, we will begin investigating an archaeological site along the Silvies River. This beautiful upland river site is set about by willows and large ponderosa pine, and it is not hard to imagine this majestic place being a customary stop for early inhabitants as they moved through the forest, along hunting paths, or to acquire tool stone and other resources. In fact, materials recovered during recent studies in the area suggest occupants were manufacturing stone tools on-site. It is our job, during this week-long PIT project, to survey and to perform shovel tests that will provide more insight into the extent and function of the site and its surrounds, and to begin to piece together the archaeological picture and overall, prehistoric cultural landscape of the Silvies River area. Volunteers will work alongside FS Heritage staff, who will instruct participants in the proper methods of archaeological survey and site testing. We will map, record surface finds and features, take photographs, and document our discoveries along the way. It truly is a beautiful and scenic place to work, and there is history and prehistory aplenty here to catch the eye of both the budding and even the most discerning archaeologist! We hope to see you in August!
Number of openings: 8
Special skills: Must be physically capable of hiking moderate distances each day over varying terrain and in a variety of weather conditions; previous
archaeological survey, excavation, site mapping, artifact identification, photography, and/or sketching experience helpful, but not necessary
Minimum age: 18 years old
Facilities: Tent and RV (up to 20') camping available at no charge at Idlewild Campground (~ 17 miles from Burns); vault toilets, potable water; no hook-ups; volunteers responsible for personal camping equipment, food, and transportation to campground
Nearest towns: Burns, 40 miles
Applications due: July 6, 2015