The Northwest Chapter is a branch of the Iowa Archaeological Society , and members are pledged to support and further the aims and purposes of the parent organization. Both were established by interested Iowans for the study and preservation of the prehistory and early historic heritage of the state. Their goals are to further archaeological knowledge and to gather, record, and publish information of remains including sites, data, and artifacts, for the benefit of future generations of Iowans and scientists. Membership is open to anyone interested in supporting these objectives. Northwest Chapter meetings are generally held on Saturday mornings once a month.
All meetings are open to the public, and are regularly announced to members.
Programs include films, reports, field trips and supervised excavations. The Northwest Chapter Newsletter is published quarterly at the Sanford Museum and mailed to all paid members. Dues are payable on the calendar year.