What to do If...?
Welcome to FOAS
This group was formed in July 2002 in keeping with the public education goals and objectives (2002-2005) of the Kentucky Organization of Professional Archaeologists (KyOPA). This society is designed to be inclusive of professionals, students, amateurs and collectors, other professionals in pertinent disciplines (such as teachers, historians, geologists, etc.), American Indians, and interested public.
The geographic area of interest for this society encompasses the constricted Ohio River Valley region of north central Kentucky and southern Indiana within a one-hundred mile radius of Louisville.
The formation of the society was advertised through 46 different media outlets and generated an initial interest from over 175 individuals with new inquiries occurring daily. Of those who have registered for membership to date, 36% consider themselves to be amateurs or collectors; 50% identified themselves as "interested public"; 6% were students from various universities; and the remainder were other professionals including historians and teachers. Several professionals also attended the first meeting, but professional involvement was not initially sought until the level of interest had been determined. The percentage of professional representation is expected to increase and will be reflected in updated membership records.
A newsletter is distributed four times a year (January, April, July, and October) that provides newsworthy items relative to the cultural heritage of the region as well as FOAS activities. An annual or bi-annual journal-style publication containing short articles and news items appropriate for lay consumption was started last year. The first journal edition was published last year (see the Gift Shop page on this web site). Submissions are encouraged from all, especially as the subject matter relates to public archaeology and education projects.
An amateur "certification" program is currently underway, by which individuals can be trained in archaeological field and lab methods and techniques. As part of this program, the individual will log hours involved in closely supervised projects until a certain level of competency to qualify as an accredited volunteer is attained. A program for youth and elementary school students is also being developed.
The society meets monthly in Clarksville, Indiana on the second Saturday of the month from 2-4 p.m. Monthly speakers for 2005 are currently being scheduled.