Mapping the Hydrology of Canyon de Chelly to support Archaeological Site Preservation
Conference Year
2024
Abstract
Canyon de Chelly is a culturally rich southwestern landmark of the Navajo Nation’s history. The integrity of archaeological sites is now threatened by increasingly extreme climate events in the west. To collect data, four water level loggers measuring water depth were placed strategically near to the site Mummy Cave. A hydrological model was developed to simulate indicators of erosion and to start a conversation with the Navajo Nation and National Park Services to explore mitigation projects for the protection of these monuments. Results include preliminary observations of the canyon, setbacks and improvements for future site visits, and networking with archaeologists familiar to the region.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Donna Rizzo
Graduate Student Mentors
Fiona Doherty, Eliza McLatchy
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
Program/Major
Environmental Engineering
Primary Research Category
Engineering and Math Science
Mapping the Hydrology of Canyon de Chelly to support Archaeological Site Preservation
Canyon de Chelly is a culturally rich southwestern landmark of the Navajo Nation’s history. The integrity of archaeological sites is now threatened by increasingly extreme climate events in the west. To collect data, four water level loggers measuring water depth were placed strategically near to the site Mummy Cave. A hydrological model was developed to simulate indicators of erosion and to start a conversation with the Navajo Nation and National Park Services to explore mitigation projects for the protection of these monuments. Results include preliminary observations of the canyon, setbacks and improvements for future site visits, and networking with archaeologists familiar to the region.