Report an Archaeological Site

Archaeological Site Recording & Reporting

Archaeological site records are the foundation for understanding and preserving Kentucky’s archaeological heritage. The Office of State Archaeology maintains the statewide archaeological site file and records information submitted by professional archaeologists, agencies, researchers, landowners, and members of the public.

Site recording helps document where archaeological resources are located, what kinds of materials or features have been identified, and what additional research or stewardship may be needed. Accurate site records also help agencies and planners make informed decisions, support academic and professional research, and reduce the risk of unintentional damage to important archaeological resources.

Because archaeological sites are nonrenewable resources, reporting them is an important act of stewardship. OSA encourages responsible documentation and communication while also protecting sensitive information from inappropriate disclosure.

Questions about archaeological site reporting may be directed to OSA at ky-osa@uky.edu.

Public Reporting

Members of the public, landowners, avocational archaeologists, and local organizations may contact OSA for guidance if they believe they have identified an archaeological site or archaeological materials.

Public reporting may be appropriate when:

You have found artifacts or other evidence of past human activity on your property.
You are aware of an archaeological site that may not have been previously recorded.
You are a landowner seeking guidance on responsible stewardship.
You are part of a local organization, historical society, or community group documenting cultural resources.
You need help understanding whether an archaeological site has already been recorded.

When contacting OSA, please provide general information about the location, setting, and nature of what was observed. Photographs, maps, or written descriptions may be helpful. OSA staff can help determine whether a formal site record is appropriate and can provide guidance on next steps.

For the protection of archaeological resources, detailed site location information should not be posted publicly online or shared broadly. OSA can provide guidance on how to report information responsibly.

Professional Reporting

Professional archaeologists, agencies, and consultants should follow OSA’s current site recording standards and submission procedures when documenting archaeological sites in Kentucky.

Professional reporting may include:

Submission of new archaeological site forms
Updates to previously recorded site information
Boundary revisions or additional documentation
Supporting maps, photographs, and field documentation
Associated cultural resource management reports
GIS data, when required or appropriate

Professional submissions should be complete, accurate, and consistent with OSA’s current requirements. Site forms and supporting documentation become part of the statewide archaeological site file and may be used for future research, planning, compliance review, and preservation decision-making.

Professional archaeologists should consult the current OSA forms, instructions, and submission guidance before preparing materials. Incomplete submissions may require revision before they can be entered into OSA records.

Current Site Form Downloads

OSA’s current archaeological site form format is organized as a set of six Word files rather than a single document. This modular format is designed to make site documentation more flexible and allow preparers to use the sections that are applicable to the site being recorded or updated.

Please download and complete the appropriate files for your submission:

Completed forms and required supporting materials should be submitted according to OSA’s current submission procedures. Questions about which forms are required for a specific submission may be directed to ky-osa@uky.edu.

Why Site Reporting Matters

Archaeological site records help protect Kentucky’s cultural heritage by making responsible planning and research possible. These records allow archaeologists, agencies, and researchers to understand where archaeological resources have been identified, how they have been interpreted, and what information may still be needed.

Site reporting does not automatically make a site public, nor does it create a public map of archaeological locations. OSA manages archaeological information through appropriate access procedures so that site records can support research and planning while helping protect sensitive resources.