Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Who can participate? 

This is a family-friendly event and we welcome volunteers age 14+.

• All volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult.  
• Volunteers younger than 14 may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
• All volunteers (including accompanying adults) must be included in the sign up.

What to expect? 

The general activities are fairly straightforward (such as digging, sieving sediment, washing and sorting artifacts), and training and materials will be provided. We work outside on uneven terrain, and ask that participants wear close-toed, sturdy shoes.

The dig day will be happening rain or shine. It if doesn't rain or if it is only drizzling, we will be working outside, so please dress to be comfortable and in clothing and shoes that can get dirty. If it does rain, there will be opportunities to work in the lab or take a tour of the Woodlawn History Center (close-toed shoes are required in the lab too).

We'll be set up in a gravel parking lot adjacent to Java ruins (large brick building with metal supports). Please stay as long as you want for your slot! There is no pressure to stay the whole time. There are two solar-powered porta potties at the site that can be accessed down a relatively steep grassy hill.  There are also single-stall bathrooms in the Woodlawn House, located right inside SERC's campus entrance, when it opens at 10 am.

Important notes

• Specific directions and additional details will be sent via email two days before the date to those who sign-up.  

• If you have any questions or access needs, please contact Rachael Mady (MadyR@si.edu), who is the SERC Participatory Science Coordinator.