What is Archaeology?
Archaeology is the scientific study of past human cultural behavior, based on the analysis of material remains or artifacts (things made or modified by people) and their patterns and distribution within archaeological sites (places where evidence of past human social and cultural behavior are preserved).
One of the goals of archaeology is to expand our knowledge of history and prehistory by examining how people adapted to changes in their natural and social environments and their responses to contact with new ideas and different people. Information recovered from archaeological sites adds incrementally to the accumulated knowledge and understanding of our shared past.
Why is MoDOT Conducting Archaeological Investigations?
MoDOT archaeologists conduct research and field investigations to identify and evaluate the significance of historic and prehistoric archaeological sites in areas that may be affected by proposed transportation projects. MoDOT carries out these studies in order to comply with federal and state preservation mandates, and as part of its larger commitment to environmental responsibility.
Where significant archaeological sites cannot be avoided or impacts to those sites cannot be sufficiently minimized, archaeologists may conduct excavations to recover artifacts and other data that might otherwise be lost or destroyed during construction of transportation projects.
General information on archaeology in Missouri—as well as the more common types of projectile points found in Missouri—are provided in the brochure available HERE.
