FAQ

Can I change or cancel my registration?

You can change or cancel your registration, however we ask that you give us as much notice as possible so that we can prepare for each date accordingly.

Email us to make changes

Is there a minimum number of days required for registration? What about a maximum?

We recommend that you register for a maximum of two dates so that you get the full excavation experience (these dates do NOT have to be consecutive). You'll receive a site tour and training in archaeological excavation techniques on your first day, which usually takes half a day. Participating on a second date allows you to experience all aspects of the excavation. 

Is there a registration deadline?

There is no registration deadline, however there are a limited number of spots available each day. Dates often fill up quickly, so we recommend that you register as soon as possible!

Email us to register

Is there a cost?

There is no cost for the program.

Do I need any experience or prerequisites?

No previous experience in archaeological excavation or academic courses are required to participate in the program. Training in archaeological excavation techniques are provided on site and volunteers will be supervised by experienced University of Calgary graduate students.

Can I get academic credit?

Academic credit cannot be provided for participation in the program. However, we are happy to provide you a letter indicating your number of volunteer hours and the type of work performed. University students who want academic credit should register for ARKY 306/506 at the University of Calgary.

Is there a waitlist for full dates?

All unavailable dates have an ongoing waitlist. Should participants cancel or spots become available volunteers on the waitlist will be contacted to register for that date.

Email us to be added to a waitlist

Can I bring my kids?

Kids over the age of 12 are welcome to participate in our excavation. All individuals under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a guardian or supervisor.

Where is the site and how do I get there?

Volunteers will check in with dig staff at the designated meeting spot in the second parking lot in the Edworthy Park dog park at 9:30 AM. Additional parking is available throughout the dog park, in the advent this parking lot is full. Transportation to and from the site is the responsibility of program participants.

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Is transportation provided?

Transportation to and from the site is the responsibility of program participants.

What kind of work will I do

Archaeological excavations require physical activity including kneeling, bending, and lifting. You will participate in all archaeological excavation activities including digging, screening, recording artifacts, note-taking, and unit mapping.

Are there any facilities available during the day?

There are no food or water facilities available on-site. Porta potties are provided.

What do I need to bring?

You must bring your own lunch, water and water bottles, sun screen, bug repellent, hats, work gloves, and wear weather-appropriate clothing. Please check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. For safety reasons, close-toed shoes are required to participate in the excavations. The program will provide all archaeological excavation equipment.

What if the weather is bad?

In case of heavy rain or other severe weather, all work will be cancelled for the day. The program will attempt to contact you either the night before or early on the day of excavation, however please note that this is not always possible. Changing weather conditions in the field may require cancellation of the workday while at the site. You may re-register for alternative participation dates, but there is no guarantee that there will be other dates available in the excavation program. The Public Archaeology Program, the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, and the University of Calgary are not responsible for cancelled registrations or cancellations as the result of severe weather conditions.

How long is the work day?

You will meet program staff at the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park Interpretive Centre parking lot at 9:30 AM each day. Work will finish between 3:00 and 3:30 PM, and you will be driven back to the Interpretive Centre.