Laying the Foundation for Driftwood Research: Building Tree-Ring Chronologies and Community Partnerships

University Of Alaska Fairbanks Campus, Fairbanks AK

Investigators

Abstract

This is an SGER to support interdisciplinary research to explore new techniques to sourcing driftwood in the archaeological record through tree-ring data and indigenous knowledge. The PI will develop a method of cross dating as a way of sourcing driftwood and exploring variability in tree response to climate change. The CoPI will collect oral history and traditional knowledge of driftwood and its use. Working together in the collection and analysis of both types of data the researchers propose to better understand the use of drift wood in the archaeological record, as well as develop a more precise chronology for the region of Southwest Alaska. In addition, the project includes community consultations in order to explore community interest in this topic and the possibility of collaboration with local scholars on a larger future project in this area.