MOSCA — Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve will host two summer Youth Archeology Expeditions (YAE) for San Luis Valley middle school and high school students. YAE is a 6-day program that introduces participants to the discipline of prehistoric and historic archeology through place-based learning. Participants will gain an understanding of the various applications of archaeology and the need to protect and preserve archaeological sites through hands-on activities and fieldwork alongside archeologists, park resource management specialists, and other public land managers throughout the San Luis Valley. The goal of the program is to create the next generation of stewards by exposing them to the discipline of archeology (including excavating, and collections management) and the value in telling the story of local, state, and nationally significant sites.

The program is free and includes transportation, and supplies. Students who are completing, 6th,7th, and 8th grade are eligible to apply for the middle school expedition which will take place Monday, June 21-Saturday, June 26. Students completing 9th, 10th, and 11th grade are eligible to apply for the high school expedition which will take place Monday, July 12- Saturday, July 17.  Eligible students from all 14 districts in the San Luis Valley are encouraged to apply!

The park will select 8-12 participants for each expedition and implement COVID safety guidelines throughout the program. For more information about this exciting opportunity and to obtain an application, contact Evan Portier via email at [email protected] or by calling 719-378-6349. Applications are due by Monday, May 3rd.