The N.H. Division of Historical Resources’ State Conservation and Rescue Archaeology Program is currently accepting applications for its 2022 field school at Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown.

In addition to continuing the excavation of a pre-contact archaeological deposit identified during the 2021 season, this year’s field school will also focus on several additional areas that exhibit the potential to contain pre-contact deposits.

Each SCRAP field school session is two weeks long, June 6-17 and June 20-July 1, with fieldwork taking place on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Due to the precise nature of archaeological work, each session is limited to 20 participants.

Individuals 18 years of age and older who are interested in learning professional archaeological survey and excavation techniques, including artifact identification and excavation documentation, are welcome to apply; parent or guardian participation is required for individuals 16 or 17 years of age.

A nominal fee, used to defray the cost of equipment and supplies, is charged to both volunteers and to students applying for academic credit through Plymouth State University.

SCRAP field schools conform to the standards for archaeology set forth by the National Parks Service. This year’s sessions will again be directed by Mark Doperalski, New Hampshire state archaeologist.

Registration for the NHDHR 2022 SCRAP field schools closes April 30. For more information, including how to register, visit nh.gov/nhdhr/SCRAP.htm and click on “Upcoming Events & Opportunities” or contact the NHDHR at 603-271-6433.

New Hampshire’s Division of Historical Resources, the “State Historic Preservation Office,” was established in 1974. The historical, archaeological, architectural and cultural resources of New Hampshire are among its most important environmental assets. Historic preservation promotes the use, understanding and conservation of such resources for the education, inspiration, pleasure and enrichment of New Hampshire’s citizens. For more information, visit nh.gov/nhdhr or call 603-271-3483.