Archaeological Research Highlights Indigenous Agricultural Heritage in Menominee County

Introduction

Menominee County, Michigan – A significant archaeological project is underway, focusing on the ancestral lands of the Menominee tribe. This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 4 (Quality Education), by preserving cultural heritage and promoting inclusive education.

Project Overview

1. Research Team and Leadership
   • Miranda Washinawatok, a Menominee tribe member and graduate student, is actively participating in the excavation.
   • Dartmouth College Assistant Professor Madeleine McLeester leads the archaeological team.
2. Site and Findings
   • Hundreds of acres of ancient agricultural ridges have been identified on Menominee ancestral land, some dating back up to 1,000 years.
   • The team distinguishes these ridges from natural forest floor features and excavates selected sections.
   • Excavated soil is filtered to recover ancient seeds, pollen, pottery shards, and beads, providing evidence of indigenous agricultural practices.

Significance of the Research

• Preservation of Indigenous Heritage: The project was initiated by the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, emphasizing the importance of preserving ancestral agricultural sites (SDG 11).
• Environmental Conservation: The discovery of agricultural ridges in less disturbed areas like the Upper Peninsula highlights the need to protect natural and cultural landscapes (SDG 15).
• Educational Impact: The research fosters awareness and education about indigenous history and sustainable land use practices (SDG 4).
• Community Involvement: Active participation by the tribal community ensures that the project respects indigenous knowledge and priorities, promoting inclusive and sustainable cultural development (SDG 16).

Future Goals

The research team aims to uncover evidence of a larger indigenous settlement in the area, which would further enhance understanding of historical land use and support ongoing preservation efforts.

Additional Information

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1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • The article discusses ancient agricultural practices of the Menominee tribe, highlighting sustainable food production and preservation of agricultural heritage.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Preservation of indigenous cultural heritage and archaeological sites is emphasized, contributing to sustainable communities and cultural sustainability.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • The article highlights the preservation of agricultural ridges and land management practices by indigenous peoples, contributing to sustainable land use and biodiversity conservation.
4. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Research and education efforts by the Menominee tribe and academic collaborators promote knowledge sharing and cultural education.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • Target 2.4: By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.4: Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
   • Target 15.4: Ensure the conservation of mountain ecosystems, including their biodiversity, to enhance their capacity to provide benefits.
4. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including through education for sustainable lifestyles and cultural understanding.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

1. Indicator for SDG 2.4
   • Proportion of agricultural area under productive and sustainable agriculture (implied by the study and preservation of ancient agricultural ridges).
2. Indicator for SDG 11.4
   • Proportion of cultural heritage sites preserved and maintained (implied by the archaeological efforts to identify and protect indigenous agricultural sites).
3. Indicator for SDG 15.1 and 15.4
   • Coverage of protected areas in relation to terrestrial ecosystems (implied by the preservation of ancestral lands and agricultural ridges).
4. Indicator for SDG 4.7
   • Extent to which education curricula include sustainable development and cultural heritage (implied by the involvement of graduate students and tribal researchers in education and research).

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: uppermichiganssource.com