The Archaeological Conservancy has long been dedicated to preserving significant archaeological sites for research, education, and community engagement. With a recent Archaeology Grant from Utah’s State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) of around $44,000, the Conservancy has launched a preservation project for six essential sites throughout Utah. This project will involve a range of protective measures and educational initiatives. These efforts aim to safeguard Utah’s prehistoric petroglyphs and ancient structures while providing new ways for Utahns to connect with and learn about their state’s cultural heritage.
The Adelbert Smith Family Preserve: Protecting Prehistoric Petroglyphs
Located in Utah County, the 196-acre Adelbert Smith Family Preserve hosts over 200 petroglyphs, some believed to be as old as 6,000 years. These ancient images offer a window into Utah’s prehistoric past, inspiring and educating the community. The Archaeological Conservancy will use grant funding to reinforce the site’s fencing, which will improve security and prevent unintentional damage. Additionally, the grant supports the creation of a Virtual Site Tour that will be made available on YouTube, allowing people statewide and beyond to experience the site’s cultural significance, even if they can’t visit in person. Each year, the preserve welcomes hundreds of visitors including school groups, and this new virtual experience will further expand access and educational opportunities for Utah’s citizens.
Protecting Five Vital Sites in San Juan County
The project also covers five archaeological sites in San Juan County, including the Hedley Pueblo, a 70-acre Chacoan outlier site occupied from A.D. 1050 to 1300. Hedley Pueblo, one of the region’s largest ancient villages, includes a great kiva, a Chacoan great house, and over 250 rooms. Unfortunately, this historically rich site has faced recent looting attempts, threatening its structures and artifacts. To counteract these risks, the Conservancy will use grant funding for protective measures such as installing trail cameras, repairing fencing, and adding a secure gate.
The other four sites in San Juan County will receive additional protection work, including fencing repairs, new fencing installation, backfilling, and structural stabilization, each tailored to the unique needs of the site. These measures are essential to safeguarding Utah’s archaeological treasures from natural erosion and unauthorized access, helping to ensure they remain intact for future generations.
A Lasting Commitment to Preservation and Education
As permanent archaeological and educational preserves, Conservancy sites serve as invaluable resources for the public, scholars, and Native American communities. The Archaeological Conservancy’s goals for this project reflect its ongoing mission: to permanently preserve significant archaeological sites and to educate the public about America’s cultural heritage and the importance of protecting it. These efforts not only secure important cultural landmarks but also foster a sense of stewardship within Utah’s communities, ensuring that these ancient sites continue to inspire future generations.
Expanding Access to Utah’s Archaeological Heritage
Through the funding provided by SHPO’s Archaeology Grant, the Conservancy is making crucial advancements in the preservation and accessibility of Utah’s archaeological sites. By combining physical protections with virtual tours, the project opens new avenues for engagement, allowing people from all backgrounds to connect with Utah’s past.
Interested in Applying for the Archaeology Grant?
Do you have archaeological sites on your private land? Would you like to learn more about the history of your land? Find details about the archaeology grant on our webpage located here, or contact our grant administrator with any questions you may have about this opportunity.
Karlee Stauffer
SHPO grants administrator
[email protected]
(801) 535-2503
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