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Ancient hunters and gatherers etched vivid petroglyphs on cliffs in the Eastern Sierra that withstood winds, flash floods and earthquakes for more than 3,500 years. Thieves needed only a few hours to cut them down and haul them away. In the article, the “visitor” who discovered the damage was a BLM volunteer site steward. This volunteer followed all of the correct steps: making careful observations, notifying authorities, and avoiding any disturbance of potential evidence. BLM thanks this site steward, and all of you for your work to help preserve archaeological and historical sites. Download this flyer about reward information.

The Society for California Archaeology Prepares for Climate Change

Throughout the month of October, SCA volunteers from all over northern California met in Marin County to begin surveying the coastline in preparation for the pending impacts of climate change. The SCA focused on Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Bay State Park, Mount Tamalpais State Park, and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Over a hundred volunteers, including professional archaeologists, students from at least nine different universities, and avocationalists, gave time towards the effort. By the end of this first effort, the teams had covered over 30 miles of coastline and had surveyed over 2600 acres. Group camping was generously supplied by California State Parks and Point Reyes National Seashore. Round II is currently in preparation for April 2013, weather permitting, with a possible short survey effort in January. Contact SCA President

SCA’s new committee, Women in California Archaeology (WCA), was formed in Spring 2012 to provide a venue for discussion related to women archaeologists in California. The WCA will work to provide support and mentorship to women practicing archaeology in the state through individual and/or group interactions. The WCA has a core committee and members. Any member of the SCA can become a member of the WCA, including men. WCA is about supporting women in the profession. The Core Committee includes women from different venues; academic institutions, CRM firms, federal and state agencies, Native American groups, and museums. Learn more about Women in California Archaeology.

On March 6, 2012, the Secretary of Interior announced the designation of thirteen new National Historic Landmarks. Among the designees is the Carrizo Plain Archeological District in California. Among the many archaeological resources contained in the Carrizo District are a sizable number of pre-European contact sites.

Connect to the State Personnel Board link here for details on the job description, how to complete the application form, and eligibility requirements. Requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology or closely related field and one year of experience. Salary range is $3106 – $3425 (with state benefits on top of that). This exam will get you on a list which will make you eligible to be hired when an actual position becomes open.