On of the main purposes of the Society of Pennsylvania Archaeology is to protect and preserve our state’s endangered archaeological resources. We ask that you do your part in preserving and documenting Pennsylvania’s past by adopting the following guidelines for responsible amateur archaeology:
 

• Register any archaeological sites you know of with the Bureau of Historic Preservation using the Pennsylvania Archaeological Site Survey (P.A.S.S.) Form (see attached documents on how to register sites). Prehistoric archaeological sites are generally considered to be any location where multiple chert (flint) flakes, pottery shards, or artifacts have been observed. These may be noticed in plowed fields, construction sites, or in caves and under rock overhangs. Completed forms should be submitted to the Anthropology Division of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Call 412-665-2600 for more information.

• Never dig or disturb a known or suspected archaeological site, unless under the direction of a professional archaeologist or qualified SPA Chapter representative.

• If you hear of the planned destruction of a site or observe ongoing destruction, please notify your SPA Chapter President and the Anthropology Department at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History (412-665-2600). It may not be too late to alter plans or salvage scientific information.

• If you are collecting artifacts by surface hunting, carefully document where and when each artifact was found. (see attached article on how to properly document a collection) If this information is not recorded for each artifact then the artifact losses much of its scientific value. When surface hunting, always remember to ask for the landowner’s permission before entering private property.

• Consider donating your collection to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History or another qualified institution before or upon you death. Properly documented collections can serve as a valuable research source for generations to come.

• Learn all you can about archaeology and Pennsylvania’s past by reading reference materials, attending seminars, participating in archaeology related activities, and joining the Society for Pennsylvania Archaeology (SPA Application enclosed). The more you know, the more you can contribute to the field.

• Get involved! Volunteer on digs, plan your own research, publish the findings, and participate at meetings. There are many pieces you can add to the puzzle of Pennsylvania’s past!