Discovery and Technology
Archaeologists have identified a vast ancient Native American agricultural site in , attributed to the ancestors of the , using drone-based lidar technology to map over 300 acres of raised gardening beds.
The site, part of ("Dog's Belly" in Menominee), showcases extensive farming practices, including corn, beans, and squash cultivation, challenging previous assumptions about the scale and organization of Indigenous agriculture in the region.
Cultural and Historical Significance
This discovery, which includes features like burial mounds and dance rings, highlights the cultural and historical importance of the area to the Menominee tribe, emphasizing the longevity and sophistication of their agricultural practices.
The research, involving collaboration between Menominee tribal members and archaeologists, not only sheds light on the sustainable and productive nature of Indigenous agriculture but also raises questions about land use and environmental management in eastern .