Archaeologists launch countywide survey to uncover Douglas County's past

A team of archaeologists from Augustana University and the University of Kansas has launched a yearlong survey aimed at uncovering Douglas County’s historic past.

The project, which began in June, is focused on identifying and documenting archaeological sites across the county. Researchers will analyze existing artifacts and conduct field surveys to better understand the area’s history.

Leading the effort are Austin Buhta of Augustana University in Sioux Falls, S.D., and Rolfe Mandel of the University of Kansas. The researchers are encouraging local participation from Douglas County residents and property owners who may have artifacts or historically significant land.

“Community involvement is vital,” Buhta said. “Whether you’ve found artifacts or have land with historic potential, we’d love to work with you.”

Participation is free, voluntary and confidential. Investigators will not conduct any excavations or remove items from properties. Instead, they’ll document findings through photographs and share maps and reports with property owners upon request.

The team is especially interested in upland crop fields, properties situated along the Santa Fe or Oregon/California trails, and areas with exposed streambanks.

The $99,677 project is funded through the Heritage Conservation Council’s reserve account. Upon completion, findings will be presented to the Board of County Commissioners and shared with the State Historic Preservation Office.

Residents interested in participating can email dig@augie.edu or call (605) 274‐4369 for more information.