Koniag, Inc. in partnership with the Alutiiq Museum & Archaeological Repository has been awarded a grant from the National Park Service's Tribal Historic Preservation Fund for $39,402. Over the 16 month Koniag Lands Survey Project, archaeologists from the museum will complete surface surveys and shovel testing in ï¬ve areas of Koniag lands yet to be systematically investigated.
In the fall of 2013, museum archaeologists plan to visit three areas of Afognak Island–Perenosa Bay, Izhuit Bay, and Paramanof Bay, followed by survey work on southern Kodiak Island in the Sturgeon River and Uyak Bay regions during spring 2014.
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After this project’s ï¬eld research, lead archaeologists Patrick Saltonstall and Amy Stefï¬an will work with Koniag staff to create a detailed management proposal incorporating archaeological information produced from this survey, as well as current site conditions, threats to site integrity, and recommended actions for continued preservation of these areas unique and rich archaeological resources.
“The Cultural Resources Management Proposal that will be created from the Koniag Lands Survey project is an exciting new chapter in Kodiak’s archaeological stewardship” said Tom Panamaroff, Koniag’s interim President. “It will not only provide us with information about existing sites and how best to protect them, but also which are prime candidates for future research.”
The process for creating other Cultural Resources Management Proposals will be shared with the Koniag Region Land and Natural Resources Committee, a group comprised of ANCSA Native Corporations from across the Kodiak Archipelago.
This archaeological survey project will create a foundation for site preservation planning, and thus the potential for all people to continue learning about Alutiiq heritage. Such research enhances the Alutiiq Museum’s educational programs, and is a cornerstone of returning Alutiiq traditions to community awareness. It will further assist Koniag in balancing its responsibilities to both cultural stewardship and land use, while promoting the value of historic preservation. The Koniag Lands Survey creates long-range recommendations for both preservation and research that will support the respectful treatment of heritage resources, understanding of Alutiiq history, and dignity among Alutiiq people.
The project will be reported to the public on the Alutiiq Museum website and in newsletters. In spring 2014, Saltonstall will give a free public lecture on the survey and collaboration during Alaska Archaeology Month.
The Alutiiq Museum is a non-proï¬t organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the cultural traditions of the Alutiiq, an Alaska Native tribal people. Representatives of Kodiak Alutiiq organizations govern the museum with funding from charitable contributions, memberships, grants, contracts, and sales.
