Flotation Analysis Workshop

This workshop bridges the gulf between Mesoamerican and Southeastern archaeology by offering participants a hands-on opportunity to handle and process Pre-Columbian archaeological samples collected from the Kisatchie National Forest in central and western Louisiana.

Dr. Erlend Johnson, a 2018 graduate of MARI, will begin the workshop with an overview of his research in the Kisatchie National Forest (KNF). As part of this presentation he will discuss key methodological differences and research concerns based on his experience working in both Mesoamerica and Louisiana. Following this introduction, participants will have a chance to handle and process material from the KNF excavations.

One demonstration, will involve participants in the flotation of soil samples from the KNF and teach proper flotation techniques.

Another demonstration, will allow participant to assist in scanning and processing projectile points and pottery recovered from the KNF investigations using photogrammetry techniques.