It's a window to past social dynamics. That's the key. And this is only from the archaeological angle. Bogiatto, whose specialty is biology, provides a framework to study animals interacting in their natural context. Students can better understand an animal's life history and ecology when both are given equal time.
Students develop a much greater appreciation of the intimate interaction between people and animals.
Late prehistoric and contact period remains were unearthed in the course of lifting an 1800s sidewalk for improvements and are in very good shape. We saw signs of animals that had been butchered in European ways, which is something we watch for, and which suggests ideologies and practices present at the period of contact. In all, it's a very personal educational experience students find at Eagle Lake. The hours are long, the study intense, and the interaction creates a special group bond. They know how much you care.