Archaeological sites are heritage resources containing irreplaceable information that helps us understand the past. Archaeological research has occurred in the past in CRD Parks. Material evidence from excavated sites is held by the Royal B.C. Museum. Records dealing with the interpretation of these sites are held at the Archaeology Branch of the Provincial Government and at CRD Parks. The province of B.C. requires that all archaeological sites and artifacts be conserved as Heritage Resources according to the requirements of the Heritage Conservation Act passed in 1994.
Archaeologists attempt to solve mysteries of the past from clues left behind.
Middens, for example, are full of clues, but they're also very fragile. Materials are often found in thin layers, with the newest on top, and the oldest at the bottom. Removing the materials will eventually destroy the site, making it difficult or impossible to understand the past and how societies change. If you think you've discovered an archaeological site or artifact in a CRD Park, do not disturb it. Instead, contact the CRD Parks main office, or the Archaeology Branch, so that the resources can be recorded and included in the inventory of archaeological resources within the park.