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

Where is the site and how do I get there?

Volunteers will check in with dig staff at the designated meeting spot in the Lower South Parking Lot in Edworthy Park at 9:30 AM.

Parking and Transportation

Transportation to and from the site is the responsibility of program participants. Participants must also be physically able to walk roughly one kilometer from the parking lot to the site. Parking is FREE so please ensure you come in early to secure a parking spot.

Email us to register

What do I need to bring?

The site is roughly one kilometer from the parking lot, so participants should come prepared to carry all belongings with them for the day.

Participants must bring their own lunch, water and water bottles, sunscreen, 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 and pants are recommended. The program will provide all archaeological excavation equipment.

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.