New archaeological findings expand understanding of First Nations agricultural practices on the Plains

By Aaron Walker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Windspeaker.com An archaeological presentation in Treaty 4 territory revealed findings that could reshape the understanding of First Nations’ life on the Prairies, suggesting plant cultivation long before European contact. The April 17 presentation at the Moose Jaw (Saskatchewan) Public Library was led by archaeologist Alan Korejbo of Respect Heritage Consulting. He directed excavation at the Garratt and Davies sites in the Wakamow Valley, named for former landowners Bill Garratt and Paul Davies. Early 2023 assessments, including more than 100 shovel tests, confirmed a high density of archaeological material, building on discoveries made by Davies in the 1950s. Located at what is locally known as “The Turn,” named for the river’s meandering shape through Wakamow Valley, the site has yielded more than 200,000 artifacts…

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