NOVEMBER 20th (University of Calgary, ES 162) @ 7:30 pm:
Bill Perry, Parks Canada
Archaeological Resource Management in a post wildfire environment: Waterton Lakes NP.
Waterton Lakes National Park is part of a rich cultural landscape that stretches back around ten thousand years primarily within the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Nation. The Kenow Wildfire of 2017 has presented a unique opportunity for archaeological research in the Park. The wildfire cleared out the ground cover, allowing exceptional visibility of the land surface.
Parks Canada has put together a team of archaeologists for a 5-year project to record and research the new finds that come to light. Initial site survey results have uncovered an unprecedented degree of archaeological visibility focused on the last 1000 years. This presentation highlights archaeological research and engagement with the surrounding indigenous nations, communities, local landowners and interested public.
Excavation and core sampling of select archaeological sites are planned for the coming field season that afford potential to report on the complete regional human history time frame within the park with a focus on environmental/climate change and past fire history research.