Bighorn National Forest

USDA Forest Service
Bighorn National Forest
2013 Eastside 2nd Street
Sheridan, WY 82801
307-674-2600

Telephone for the
Hearing Impaired
307-674-2604

Heritage Resources

1. Why are archaeological sites so important?
2. What types of heritage resources are present on the Forests?
3. How are the heritage resources on the Forest protected?
4. Is it legal to remove arrowheads and other artifacts I find on the National Forests?
5. How can I participate in archaeological and historic preservation projects?
6. Where can I get more information on heritage resources in Wyoming?

1. Why are archaeological sites so important?

Archaeological sites are the physical remains of the past that can be studied by archaeologists and other scholars to answer questions about history and prehistory. In many cases they are our only link to understanding our nations heritage.

2. What types of heritage resources are present on the Forests?

The Bighorn National Forest is rich in heritage resources. From turn of the century mining and logging to prehistoric native American Indian artifacts. Click on the following links to see pictures and read brief histories of our heritage resources:

Tie Hacking

Native Americans 

Typical Artifacts found on the Bighorn 

3. How are the heritage resources on the Forest protected?

Identification and protection of heritage resources is one of the first steps completed whenever a ground disturbing project is proposed on the National Forests. Professional archeologists conduct intensive surveys of the areas and identify areas of historic value. Depending on the quality and size of the find, the area is either nominated for inclusion to the National Register of Historic Places, or simply identified as an area to be protected or avoided during project implementation. In addition, the locations of these archaeological finds are not disclosed to the general public.

4. Is it legal to remove arrowheads and other artifacts I find on the National Forests?

No. The Antiquities Act of 1906 forbids the disturbance of ruins or archaeological sites on Federal lands without the permission of land-managing agencies.

5. How can I participate in archaeological and historic preservation projects?

Write to:

Passport in Time Clearinghouse c/o CEHP
P.O. Box 18364
Washington DC 20036
(202) 293-0922

6. Where can I get more information on heritage resources in Wyoming?

Visit the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office.