Get Involved
Archaeological Stewardship
Refrain From Digging
The locations of artifacts and other fragile archaeological remains are evidence of the people who left them. Careful, scientific excavation enables the archaeologist to recover and interpret this evidence. Remember, once a site is excavated or disturbed, it is gone forever.
Know the Laws
Some sites are protected by state and federal laws. For example, it is against the law to collect artifacts from state or federal property without proper permitting. It is also against the law to disturb marked or unmarked graves or burial sites on private or public property.
Keep Good Records
When collecting artifacts, record the location on an accurate map, like a USGS topographic map, or with GPS coordinates on your phone. Keep artifacts from different sites separate and label them by site. This information is essential for recording with OSA.
Report Disturbances
If you are aware of or suspect that an archaeological site has been disturbed, contact us as soon as possible. If you are aware of or suspect human burials on private or public land have been disturbed, contact your local Sheriff's office immediately.
Archaeological Stewardship in North Carolina: What, Why, and How?
You are encouraged to join the North Carolina Archaeological Society, an organization open to all that is committed to the study and preservation of the state's archaeological resources.
The state's professional organization, the North Carolina Archaeological Council, consists of archaeologists, physical anthropologists and related professionals concerned with the archaeology of North Carolina.