Through the camas plant, archaeologist bridges the past, present, and future – WSU Insider

In her current research, the environmental archaeologist and postdoctoral researcher in the WSU Department of Anthropology reconstructs the cultural history and plant food uses by Northwest Native communities.

“Native people managed and harvested camas bulbs for more than 4,000 years,” said Carney, who earned her PhD in archaeology this spring.

But, once the work is complete, they depart and leave those connections in the dust.

“Molly will eventually work with other tribes,” said Kevin Lyons, cultural resources program manager, Kalispel Tribe of Indians.

WSU is the host institution for Carney’s fellowship, and she says it is an ideal partnership.

November is National Native American Heritage Month.

…Read the full story