Abstract

The Bodo archaeological site complex, located in east-central Alberta, has received on-going archaeological attention since 1995. Located in a minor sand dune outlier east of the Neutral Hills, the archaeological remains appear to represent a heavily occupied late precontact habitation locality extending for at least 4 km along the south side of Eyehill Creek. Despite four years of relatively intensive investigation, much of the site character remains poorly understood, and its full extent has not yet been determined. Nevertheless, what has been found at the site is startling, for the sheer density of material recoveries and their remarkable preservation, as well as their seemingly limitless extent.Several local rural communities have now taken an active interest in the site locality, and consider it a valuable source for future economic development in a region where drought and BSE have severely disrupted the traditional ways of making a living. Local residents have long accepted the role of academic research as a social benefit, but they are now providing significant financial support to continue that research, in expectations that a viable tourism industry will arise. However, many tasks remain before significant economic development can ensue, including resolution of land ownership, protection and preservation of the historical remains even as their economic exploitation is considered, and consultation with First Nations regarding their role in scientific interpretation and economic development of the resources. In particular, this paper addresses various scenarios for research and economic development of the Bodo historical remains in the near future and considers what long range historical studies can provide for economic rejuvenation for the local and regional economy.