8-27-2024 7:21am

Discover the ancient secrets of White Sands with Office of Archaeological Studies

Chris Edwards Editor

Step back in time and uncover the ancient secrets of White Sands with Dr. David Rachal, a distinguished geoarchaeologist, in an engaging lecture that promises to captivate history buffs, science enthusiasts, and anyone curious about our human origins. Join Office of Archaeological Studies (OAS) Thursday, September 12 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Dr. Rachal will guide attendees through evolving discoveries and groundbreaking research on the ancient geomorphology surrounding the footprints near the White Sands Missile Range. This lecture offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the earliest chapters of human history, as revealed by the landscapes of southern New Mexico.

“Office of Archaeological Studies is thrilled to bring this event to the public with the help of the Museum of New Mexico Foundation, said Director John Taylor Montoya. “Dr. Rachal is a world-class scientist who will be presenting on his most recent research. We want to thank the Museum of Natural History and Science for hosting the event.”

Dr. David Rachal brings over 12 years of professional experience as a geomorphology and geoarchaeology consultant in southern New Mexico and west Texas. With a Ph.D. and M.S. in Soil Science and Physical Geography from New Mexico State University, Dr. Rachal has been involved in all phases of archaeological investigations, including surveys, testing, evaluations, and data recovery projects throughout the southwest. His research interests span soil geomorphology, modern and paleo-eolian systems, geoarchaeology, Quaternary environments, and arid pedology.

The lecture is not just a chance to learn but also an opportunity to support a worthy cause. All proceeds from the event will go towards funding education and research initiatives at the Office of Archaeological Studies. Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased at: museumfoundation.eventbrite.com or visit museumfoundation.org/events for more information.

There is a fascinating controversy surrounding the dating of the footprints left by early humans at White Sands National Park. Join Dr. David Rachal, a New Mexico geoarchaeologist, for an enlightening lecture where he guides us through recent discoveries and research developed in collaboration with Dr. Robert Dello Russo and Matthew Cuba. David will discuss their theories about the formation of the footprint site, the biology of the aquatic plant, Ruppia cirrhosa, and why Ruppia’s characteristics – coupled with the dynamics of Paleolake Otero - make it a challenge for dating the footprints. This event is ideal for history buffs, science enthusiasts, and anyone curious about geoarchaeology and the age of the human prints.

About the New Mexico Office of Archaeological Studies 

The office of Archaeological Studies conducts archaeological research projects throughout New Mexico with a diverse group of 6 archaeologists and support staff. Their mission is to identify, interpret, and share information about prehistoric and historic sites across the state. The office serves state agencies and private organizations that need archaeological studies performed as part of their development projects.  