Mesa Prieta Project Archaeology Program Support

FAIN: PB-274238-20

Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Project (Velarde, NM 87582)
Jennifer Goyette (Project Director: May 2020 to November 2020)
Chester Liwosz (Project Director: November 2020 to present)

The retention of one core staff member, who would add to their ongoing duties projects that create digital/virtual outreach materials: two digital tours of the petroglyph site and four 3D digital models of petroglyph panels.

For over 20 years, the Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Project has organized volunteers and developed public education programs devoted to recording, preserving, and communicating the historical and cultural significance of petroglyphs (rock engravings) on a 12-mile (20km) long, 32,000 acre mesa along the Rio Grande in Northern New Mexico. Core to this mission, our archaeology program led by one full-time staff member includes nearly 40 volunteer recorders, and provides crucial documentation needed for preservation. CARES funds will support the Project Archaeologist’s ongoing duties, and additional responsibilities to produce online and virtual reality outreach materials during pandemic closures. Deliverable products of two 360 panorama tours and four 3D models of petroglyph panels will be made publicly available on desktop and mobile platforms. These digital representations will encourage engagement while our primary sources of revenue (including public tours) are on hold.