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Dig near asbestos cleanup reveals artifacts LIBBY (AP) – An archaeological dig along the banks of the Kootenai River east of here is revealing artifacts believed to be 7,000 years old.
The dig at the mouth of Rainy Creek is in connection with the Environmental Protection Agency’s cleanup of asbestos contamination. A Billings company, owned by archaeologist Steve Aaberg, was hired to do the dig, in compliance with federal regulations that demand protection of cultural resources. Using hand tools, Aaberg and several assistants have retrieved artifacts 3 to 4 feet below the ground’s surface. Items include deer bones, a variety of stone tools, arrowheads and darts. The excavation also turned up notched pebbles believed to have been used to weigh down fishing nets. “In a nutshell, the site was really heavily occupied for several thousand years,” Aaberg said. “We know that we have stuff that’s around 7,000 years old.” The archaeologists have been taking precautions to shield themselves from asbestos. They’ve worn protective suits and respirators, and the area of the dig is dampened to prevent dust from rising. The artifacts were found on private property and legally belong to the property owner. Aaberg said he hopes the items ultimately will go to the Kootenai Indians, for preservation. The asbestos cleanup is part of a project to deal from contamination tied to W.R. Grace Co.’s operation of a vermiculite mine near Libby. Mining ceased about 10 years ago, but controversy surrounding it continues. Some residents of Libby have blamed deaths and lingering health problems on asbestos from the Grace operations. Copyright 2000 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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