Archaeology Research Program


See our 2024 program sessions below.

Crow Canyon was founded on the idea that members of the public could play an important role in archaeology. Each year, we welcome people of all ages to our campus near Mesa Verde in Southwest Colorado. Participants serve as citizen scientists in support of our mission to pursue archaeological research and experiential education in collaboration with Native Americans.

Crow Canyon’s experiential education programs not only provide instruction in archaeological techniques but also involve citizen scientists in the actual research process. This firsthand approach increases awareness of, and appreciation for, our rich cultural heritage, while providing broad-based support for archaeological research, preservation, and cultural continuity.

2024 ARCHAEOLOGY RESEARCH PROGRAM: Human-Environment Relationships


What can we learn from past community responses to shifting environmental conditions in the American Southwest? How can ancient farming techniques inform agriculture and crop management today? Can we look at historical responses to changes in climate to find solutions for present day challenges? How can we apply concepts from ancient water management practices to our daily lives?

Travel to the Mesa Verde region, one of the most archaeological-rich locations in the U.S. and join researchers and cultural specialists on a journey to explore answers to these questions and more. The Archaeology Research Program offers a unique, small-group opportunity for citizen scientists and non-professionals to contribute a hands-on role to active research, analyses, and knowledge development at Crow Canyon.

The 2024 sessions are focused on advancing the understanding of human-environment relationships through the lens of archaeology and Indigenous cultural perspectives. Together we’ll employ a variety of scientific skills and techniques including soil sampling, tree-ring analysis, flora and fauna analyses, and new technology as we investigate. Indigenous scholars and educators will complement our learning with first-hand ancestral knowledge and open our eyes to new and different perspectives. Lively discussions will explore the themes of water management, agriculture, and migration. Throughout the week, ancestral landscapes envelop us and beckon for us to visit with open minds and respect.

Highlights


    • Your participation in this program directly contributes to furthering research of the Northern Chaco Outliers Project.
    • Experience one of the most archaeological-rich locations in the U.S.
    • Enjoy the rural comfort of campus life on 170-acres complete with nature trails, stunning views, rocking chairs, and a night sky full of constellations.

Join an important research opportunity as a citizen scientist to help advance understanding of human-environment relationships in the Mesa Verde...
read more

Starting at: $1775.00

Join an important research opportunity as a citizen scientist to help advance understanding of human-environment relationships in the Mesa Verde...
read more

Starting at: $1775.00

Program funding


Crow Canyon is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and contributions from supporters help fund our educational and research programs. Tuitions only cover a portion of the cost to operate the programs. Your generosity supports our collaborative projects with Native American partners and the delivery of quality educational programming.

Crow Canyon Campus photo

Cancellation Policy & Terms and Conditions


    • $500.00 deposit required upon registration
    • Deposit is fully refundable until 60 days prior to the program date
    • Full payment due 60 days prior to the program start date
    • If cancellation notice is received between 60 and 30 days of the program start date, 50% of the tuition will be retained
    • If cancellation notice is received between 30 days and the program start date, 100% of the tuition will be retained
    • Click here for Terms & Conditions

Contact Us


Please contact us for updates, and be sure to join us every Thursday at 4:00 p.m. for the Discover Archaeology webinar series. Check the homepage for upcoming events.

800.422.8975, ext. 451
M–F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Mountain Time)
programs@crowcanyon.org

"I think the most amazing thing for me was how something could be so personally enriching but also still feel like we contributed in some small way."

ELIZABETH H.
Flagstaff, AZ

Our Research Themes

Our projects address a wide variety of interrelated issues relevant not only to archaeologists but to educators, policy makers, advocacy groups, and Indigenous peoples.

Humans and the Environment


We study how humans responded to environmental change in the past and the implications for environmental policy.

Multivocal Histories


We promote respect for different cultures and preserve traditional knowledge, past and present.

Cultural and Scientific Literacy


As a social science with deep roots in STEM, archaeology helps students become critical thinkers and lifelong learners.

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