Archaeology Can Help Us Plan for Climate Change

 This week we are going to wrap up our climate change series with a discussion on how archaeology can and does contribute to our understanding of climate change. Archaeologists have long studied the effects of natural and man-made disasters and they have already seen evidence of climate change and sea level rise. Climate disasters, ranging from storms to sea level rise, both reveal and threaten archaeological sites. Archaeologists have been studying climate change in one form or another for about 150 years. 

There are numerous examples of archaeologists studying evidence of past climate change events and sustainability practices from long ago. Dr. Kenneth Sassaman has studied how people on the North Florida Gulf Coast have lived and adapted over 5,000 years of climate change and sea level fluctuation. Early people in this region would move at the rate of a football field every five years to adjust to sea level changes. He also noted changes in their diet that reflect possible climatic changes. 

Archaeologists in Iceland have been studying an area that is a known breeding ground for North American and Eurasian waterfowl. It is an area known for its great diversity in waterfowl species. Archaeologists have noted the remains of waterfowl eggs at sites, but not waterfowl bones. They have identified terrestrial bird bones, so they believe the lack of waterfowl bones is indicative of early sustainability practices. Even today, that area has limits on the number of eggs that can be harvested. Historic documents note that these types of sustainability practices have been taking place since at least the 18th century, but archaeological evidence shows that they may have been occurring even earlier.

Native Americans are reintroducing cultural 
burning to California as a means to address
wildfires. (photo courtesy of NPR)

In California, archaeologists, along with ecologists, botanists, and other scientists, are all working to inform policy discussions regarding current and future improvements to fire management practices. In this case, indigenous histories can provide guidance on how to improve current fire management practices and wildfire response. In California Native American groups are starting to institute the practice of cultural burning, something that has not been done for almost a century since Western settlers arrived in the area. 

Both mitigation and adaptation regulate changes in human behavior. Archaeology can provide information on how we can adapt and mitigate issues like climate change based on how we have done so in the past. Archaeology is currently not widely thought of as a contributor to our scientific understanding of climate change and how we can address it. The only time we really see archaeology as a significant contributor is in respect to how climate change will and is impacting indigenous groups. However, it is important to remember that indigenous groups are contemporary communities, and have the same concerns as every other community. They have concerns over health, economic vitality, infrastructure, and all communities have culture and heritage. Therefore, the information that archaeologists garner from studying any community can be used to help us gain a better understanding of how to address climate change. That being said, indigenous and other minority communities are at greater risk, as we have previously mentioned, and thus it is important that they take priority.

Archaeology and Climate Change: How You Can Help

 Last week we discussed how Native American sites are at risk of being damaged or lost completely due to sea level rise and climate change. Climate change is affecting all of our cultural resources in one way or another, and Florida is especially vulnerable. According to NOAA, the ocean is eight inches higher than it was in 1950, and it could rise up to another eight inches in the next twenty years. That is a significant rate increase in sea level rise! 

Higher sea levels bring with it more intense storm surge that pushes farther inland. It also increases the occurrence of nuisance flooding, such as King Tides (which occur more frequently now in South Florida). We are already seeing the effects of climate change in Florida. One of the complications with sea level rise is that different areas will see different impacts. A great tool for exploring how sea level rise will impact different geographic areas is the NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer

Today, almost 40% of the U.S. population lives in coastal areas that may be vulnerable to sea level rise. Coastal areas have always provided resources and been good places to live. This is true now and was also true for some of Florida’s earliest inhabitants. These early inhabitants left behind evidence of their culture and life, which now exist as archaeological sites. The Florida Master Site File data shows that over 16,000 cultural resources in Florida will be at risk with a one meter rise in sea level. With a two meter rise this number bumps up to over 34,000 cultural sites at risk. This is not an insignificant number. What can we do? We cannot move archaeological sites and it is impractical for a variety of reasons to excavate the entire site. And we cannot stop sea level rise in order to save these sites (although let’s hope we can perhaps curb the rate at which it is rising). 

Gathering data is a good course of action. We cannot tackle an issue if we do not define the problem.

An HMS Florida Scout monitors a
site along Florida's coastline.

Gathering data on archaeological sites helps us with understanding exactly how these sites are being affected by sea level rise. Baseline data can help us determine the rate at which these sites are being damaged and how. It can also help us in establishing techniques to stabilize and protect these sites. Of course, there are many more sites than there archaeologists and we are racing against the clock. This is where volunteers come in! And yes, you can help! 

The Florida Public Archaeology Network has a statewide public engagement program to help get the public involved in documenting and monitoring archaeological sites that are in danger due to climate change and sea level rise. Heritage Monitoring Scouts (HMS Florida) is designed to have volunteers track changes to archaeological sites that are at risk. Scouts will receive monthly updates on training and resources that are available to them and will gain access to a database where they can document their findings systematically. This is a statewide program and anyone can participate, even children with adult supervision. Signing up as a Scout is a great way to get outdoors to explore and do some good too! If you would like more information or have questions about what sites are available to monitor in your area, contact your regional FPAN office.

And if you would like to learn more about HMS or Climate Change, below are some resources worth checking out: 

NOAA Climate Change: Global Sea Level

NOAA Tidal Gages Explained 

Heritage Monitoring Scouts: How to Monitor a Site

Let's Celebrate! November is Native American Heritage Month

 Florida is rich in Native American history, culture, and heritage. Many people have heard of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, but there are also some people that are not aware of Florida’s indigenous people. The Seminole may be one of the more well known indigenous groups in Florida, but there are others as well. November is Native American Heritage Month, and so we thought it would be a great opportunity to share some information about Florida’s Native Americans. One thing we want to make absolutely clear is that there are still Native Americans in Florida and across North America that practice their traditions while living in a modern world. In fact, there are over 5 million people in the United States that identify as American Indian. While they have a rich history in our state, they do indeed play a huge role in Florida’s present and future as well. But before we get too far ahead of ourselves, let’s learn about the history and evolution of Native American Heritage Month and then go from there. 

Dr. Arthur C. Parker (photo 
courtesy of wikipedia.com)

We have celebrated Native American Heritage Month since President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 as such. Similar proclamations have been made every year since then. However, the celebration of Native American heritage goes back earlier than that. In 1911, Dr. Arthur Parker, a Seneca tribal member, archaeologist and historian, and Director of the Museum of Arts and Science in Rochester, New York, successfully persuaded the Boy Scouts of America to set aside a day for “First Americans”. It is also worth noting that in 1935 Dr. Parker, a Native American, was elected the first president of the Society for American Archaeology! Then, in 1915, at the Annual Congress of the American Indian Association, a plan for “American Indian Day” was approved. President Coolidge issued a proclamation on September 28th, 1915 declaring the second Saturday of May as American Indian Day. This proclamation is significant because it also contained the first formal appeal for recognition of Native Americans as citizens of the United States. 

After the 1915 proclamation by President Coolidge, several states subsequently started to celebrate Native American heritage on the fourth Saturday of September. More recently, several states have designated Columbus Day as  Indigenous Peoples Day, but it is also observed without being recognized as a national legal holiday. Columbus Day has long been seen by many Indigenous people and others as a day that glorifies a time in our nation’s history that was violent and oppressive towards indigenous cultures. This shift has not been without controversy, but there is a growing movement towards celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, with more states, college campuses, and municipalities choosing to celebrate it every year rather than Columbus Day.

Native American Heritage Month is a month for everyone to celebrate and learn about the achievements and contributions of Native Americans to our country's past, present and future. We invite you to take time this month to educate yourself and explore Florida’s rich Native American heritage. Each of our weekly blog posts this month will be dedicated to this subject and we will also provide additional resources if you would like to explore further. To get started, we urge you to check out the Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage.

COVID-19 Self-Isolating Archaeology Reading List

These are definitely unique and trying times for a lot of us. As archaeologists, we know that epidemics are nothing new, but it is sure new to most of us and it isn't something you ever want or can get used to. I am sure many of us are frantically trying to find things to occupy our time or our little ones. So, in light of all this, we are compiling a list of archaeology reading. We will add books suitable for adults and children. That being said, obviously it is not the most appropriate time to book it to the library (great pun, right?), but most libraries now use Libby or Overdrive, which provide ready access to many books. You can also always find them for purchase online if you so choose.

Sidebar: If you are not also familiar with Kanopy, check that out if your library offers it. It is a free streaming TV service that offers various courses, documentaries, movies and more! And yes, last time I checked there were some really interesting archaeology and culture documentaries!

Archaeology is a great way to engage children because it is full of adventure! It is also multidisciplinary, so it is a great way to teach a variety of subjects. Of course, we have a ton of free lesson plans that parents can download from our website and you can also follow us on Facebook to get other resources. Below we have shared some of our favorite children's books about archaeology.

Children's Books:

Archaeologists Dig for Clues by Kate Duke

America's REAL First Thanksgiving by Robin Gioia

Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave by Laban Carrick Hill

The Timucua Indians: A Native American Detective Story by Kelley G. Weitzel

Motel of the Mysteries by David Macaulay

Shipwreck by Claire Aston and Peter Dennis

The Magic School Bus Shows and Tells: A Book About Archaeology by Jack Posner

We are all stuck at home, so this is a great time to dedicate a few moments a day to learning something new! In that spirit we have  provided some select books for adults as well. We would like this blog post to be dynamic and serve as a virtual book club of sorts. So if you do read one of the books on either of these lists, let us know what you think in the comments section! And feel free to comment with books that you recommend even if they are not on this list (there are a ton of books out there on archaeology, this list is just the tip of the ice burg!). We have tried to keep it Florida-centric (with a few goodies that aren't necessarily Florida, but are a great read), but if there is something else that interests you, let us know!

Adult Books:

Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fate of Human Societies by Jared Diamond (It is a long read, but it is really good and yes, somewhat timely considering our current situation)

We Come for Good: Archaeology and Tribal Historic Preservation at the Seminole Tribe of Florida by Paul Backhouse, Brent Weisman, and Mary Rosebrough

Archaeology of Domestic Landscapes of the Enslaved in the Caribbean by James A. Dell and Elizabeth C. Clay

Underground: A Human History of the World Beneath Our Feet by Will Hunt

Archaeology from Space: How the Future Shapes Our Past by Sarah Parcak

Grit Tempered: Early Women Archaeologists in the Southeast United States edited by Nancy White, Lynn Sullivan, and Rochelle Marrinan

Submerged History: Underwater Archaeology in Florida by Roger C. Smith

The Swamp: The Everglades, Florida, and the Politics of Paradise by Michael Grunwald

The Rosewood Massacre: An Archaeology and History of Intersectional Violence by Edward Gonzales-Tennant

Dogs: Archaeology Beyond Domestication by Brandi Bethke and Amanda Burtt

Archaeology of Colonial Pensacola by Judith Bense

Iconography and Wetsite Archaeology of Florida's Watery Realms by Ryan Wheeler and Joanna Ostapkowcz

Water from Stone by Jason O'Donoughue

These books are listed in no particular order, so pick one that strikes your fancy and let us know how it is! We are all in this together, and although we have had to cancel all of our public events, this is our way of remaining in touch and a resource for you and your children. We are still here to offer our services, just in a different format!

Rest in Peace: Protecting Historic Cemeteries from Natural Disasters

In October 2018, Hurricane Michael hit the Gulf Coast of Florida. The impact from this storm was more
devastating and widespread than anyone had anticipated. Not only were coastal communities severely impacted,
but the reach of the storm was felt all the way into Southern Georgia. Countless historical and archaeological
sites were impacted, including many historic cemeteries. Over time patterns of damage have emerged. There is
much that we can learn from these patterns to ensure historic cemeteries are adequately prepared for natural
disasters. Both archaeologists and cemetery managers need to work together to ensure historic cemeteries are
adequately prepared for natural disasters, especially as intensity and frequency of storms continue to increase
due to climate change. 

A tree uprooted during Hurricane Michael and
took with it curbing, headstones, and ledgers.

Hurricane Michael:

•Made landfall near Mexico Beach on October 10, 2018.

•First Category 5 to hit Florida since Andrew in 1992.

•Maximum sustained winds of 160 mph.

•59 deaths in the U.S., 15 deaths in Latin America.

•Caused an estimated $25.1 billion in damages in U.S.

•An estimated $6.23 billion in insurance claims.

•14 ft. storm surge flattened homes in Mexico Beach.

•Caused major structural damage as far inland as Mariana, 54 miles from the coast.

Damage Trends to Cemeteries after Hurricane Michael:

•Large ruts caused by  response vehicles driving on saturated ground.

•Trees uprooted, taking with them ledgers, curbing, headstones, possibly exposing human

remains.

•Large limbs falling and damaging monuments.

•Fallen trees landing on graves and markers.

•Large holes resulting from fallen trees and limbs.

•Fences damaged by powerline poles and trees.

•Wind and water primary concerns

•Storm surge

•Coastal erosion

•Ground saturation

Hurricane Damage to Cemeteries:

EVALUATE YOUR RISK

Response protocol should include pre-established contractors to call upon, volunteers to call on and chain of
command. It is also important to figure out what law enforcement district your cemetery is in and who patrols
your cemetery. Maintain a relationship with them and know how you can expect them to respond to emergency
situations. Make sure any drains you have on property are clear of debris and trash. Prior to a storm event, if
possible, pick up loose debris and ornaments and store in a secure location.

Assess your ability to recover:

•Staff/Volunteers

•Recovery Funds

•Insurance

•Include response protocol in cemetery management plan

Assess your surroundings:

•Trees

•Roads

•Drainage

•Structures

•Markers/Monuments

Historic headstones require the care of a
conservator that specializes in using appropriate
materials for repair. 

Tree Considerations:

One of the most beautiful things about historic cemeteries are the big trees, but they can pose a hazard if not
properly maintained. Pruned trees have a 70% survival rate, while unpruned trees only have a 46% survival rate.
Trees need maintenance, they cannot  simply be left to grow if you want to minimize the chances that they will
cause damage. Use a licensed and insured ISA certified arborist. Live oaks and a few other species will actually
shed their leaves prior to a storm as a way to decrease wind resistance. Planting different aged trees will ensure
you don’t end up with an empty field after a storm or after a long time as they naturally die. Any trees that are
dead or dying, have thick canopies, or have co-dominant trunks should be assessed to determine how to make
them safe.  Winds that are 35 mph or higher can damage any tree.

•Trees together fare better than isolated trees.

•Many arborist companies will evaluate trees for free.

•Remove “widow makers” and dead/diseased trees.

•Plant a variety of types and ages to maintain diversity.

•Loss of leaves doesn’t always mean they are dead.

•Old trees don’t weather storms as well as young trees.

•Properly pruned trees survive better and are less likely to fall.

•Soil compaction increases risk of fall during storm (avoid driving on or near roots).

•Never cut roots shorter than five times the trunk diameter.

•Fast growing trees more likely than slow growing trees to sustain damage.

Falling trees can also damage historic iron works which can
be difficult to repair.

Cemetery Monuments:

Evaluate your monuments before a storm, after a storm and on a regular basis to keep tabs on any

 potential issues. Talk to a conservator about any scaffolding or supports that may be helpful during

 a storm to stabilize leaning or damaged monuments. Documenting before the storm may be useful

 when applying for grants, funds or insurance money after storm. Again, know who you are going to

 call before a storm.  They will be busy after a storm and it may be difficult to find someone to help 

in a timely manner if you are cold calling after a disaster! Have a plan in place for how to deal with 

damaged stones after a storm. 

•Have them assessed by a conservator and repaired as necessary.

•Do a thorough documentation before a storm strikes.

•Setting compound is not adequate, metal or fiberglass pins should be used to prevent monuments

from slipping due to vandals or weather.

•Have a pre-established conservator you can call after a storm or when concerns arise (consider the

same with an arborist).

A few notes regarding FEMA funds:

FEMA funding is very limited and many people have unrealistic expectations due to a lack of 

understanding of what they will cover. Know if your cemetery is eligible before the storm, and know 

that FEMA will deal with basic needs first, so cemeteries may not be addressed immediately. It is not

 recommended that a historic cemetery or any historic resource rely on them as a primary source of

 recovery funding. It is better to create a fundraising campaign to start an escrow account or another

 means of emergency funding that will be readily available after an emergency.

Only public cemeteries are usually eligible for FEMA funds. FEMA limits monument repair to only 

those where it is the legal responsibility of the applicant. So states that have limited liability for

 monument damage have thus precluded obtaining any federal funding from FEMA. The governor of

 the state impacted must request the help and it is county specific. FEMA funds are primarily for 

debris removal, but remember it is reimbursable to qualified cemeteries, so you must have the

 initial funds to pay for the removal.

What archaeologists can do:

•Make contact and develop relationships with cemetery managers.

•Provide education (see FPAN’s Cemetery Resource Protection Training) and educate yourself.

•Encourage cemeteries to have a current management plan that includes disaster planning and

 response.

•Be available for questions and assistance.

•Establish relationships with disaster management agencies and organizations. 

Helpful Resources:

•Chicora Foundation Cemetery Disaster Planning

                  https://www.chicora.org/pdfs/Cemetery%20Disaster%20Planning.pdf

•National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT)

                  https://www.ncptt.nps.gov/

•Natural Hazards Center

https://hazards.colorado.edu/article/preserving-the-dead-cemetery-preservation-and-disaster-planning

•“Be Prepared”, Heritage Collections Council (free book for download)
https://aiccm.org.au/disaster/disaster-planning

•CRPT Alliance Facebook Page

•Your local FPAN Regional Center