Lay of the Land

Combining Research and Preservation

When The Archaeological Conservancy acquires an important site, we turn that site into a permanent archaeological research preserve. The two key words are “permanent” and “research.” Following the principles of conservation archaeology, a doctrine first outlined by Washington State University professor and Conservancy board member William Lipe in 1974, the Conservancy believes that future scholars will be able to learn many new things using new and improved technology that we cannot even imagine today. Since archaeological excavations alter or destroy the materials being worked, it is critical to preserve undisturbed portions of each site forever.

This does not mean the Conservancy is against research. On the contrary, we promote scientific research on our preserves. (See “Ready For Research,” page 38.) Our general research guidelines set parameters for conducting many different kinds of explorations—some invasive, some not. Researchers apply to us for a permit. We review the application along with a committee of peers and offer suggestions before a final version is accepted. In our 33 years of operations we have approved every request for research, save one.

As we protect more and more important sites, research will be a bigger part of the Conservancy’s mission. With such a large variety of archaeological sites, we have a responsibility to encourage research that will both provide us with answers to many vital questions and preserve this irreplaceable resource. That way future scholars with new and improved tools will have undamaged places to work.

Mark Michel, President