Connecting Two Worlds:
Indigenous Knowledge and Earth Science
Welcome to the Association for Ethnogeology and Geoarcheology, LLC, a space where Indigenous understanding of Earth's history meets scientific inquiry. Explore our resources, connect with professionals, and join us in fostering a deeper understanding of our planet.
What is Ethnogeology?
Ethnogeology is the understandings, and observations of Earth history nd processes, as well as the knowledge and uses of Earth materials by Indigenous Peoples who have lived in the North American landscapes for tens of thousands of years. Observations have been passed down through hundreds of generations through carefully curated oral testimony.
Their oral histories record many geological events that they witnesses, including Ice Age Floods, great Cascadia earthquakes and powerful volcanic eruptions.Their effective use of Earth materials for tools, medicines and art reflects a thorough knowledge of rock properties by these first geologists.
What is Geoarcheology
Ethnogeology and Geoarcheology both explore Indigenous use of Earth materials and cultural knowledge of landscapes. Geoarchaeology is an interdisciplinary field that applies earth science principles (like geology, geography, and soil science) to archaeological problems, focusing on how past environments and geological processes shaped human activity and how humans, in turn, affected the landscape. Geoarchaeologists reconstruct past environments, date artifacts, and trace raw material sources, providing crucial context for interpreting archaeological remains and human-environment interactions.
About Us
The Association for Ethnogeology and Geoarcheology, LLC is dedicated to connecting Indigenous knowledge with the public and with scientific communities, especially geological disciplines. Indigenous oral traditions offer geologists important information about earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, Ice Age floods, river-course changes, and many more events that Indigenous people witnessed and recorded. As we grow, we will offer free educational resources, including courses, videos, and publications, to the public. We also work with museums, schools, and others. Our mission is to raise awareness of Indigenous knowledge among the public and foster collaboration between geologists, anthropologists, archaeologists, and cultural studies professionals. Learn more on our About Us page.