Archaeologists talk climate change at Whitehorse meetings

Climate change is a big topic at this year's gathering of the Canadian Archaeological Association in Whitehorse, as somearchaeologists race the clock trying to document historical sites before they vanish because of rising sea levels and changing weather patterns.

"Climate changes have had widespread impact on human and natural system on all continents and across oceans," read one session abstract. "For archaeologists and heritage managers, the challenges are massive."

More than 300experts from across North America are in Whitehorse for the conference. Among the discussions how archaeology can contribute to the discussion around changing ecology, environment and climate.

David Burley, chair of Simon Fraser University's department of archaeology, says there's a noticeable shift in this year's gathering.

"Many of the sessions are about what impacts climate change is having on the heritage record and how that's impacting communities," said Burley."The heritage that's being lost is incredible."

Burley notedcoastal erosion as one example, saying that he"saw several papers so fartalking about archaeological sites on the coast that are completely falling into the ocean."

Conference co-chair Greg Hare says in some cases, changing environmental conditions also reveal more artifacts like those found in melting ice and permafrost.

The discussions in Whitehorse will also includelooking back at historical changes in the environment.

"Societies have had to adapt and change," said Hare, noting the scientists in at the national conference are looking to the past for potential answers. "They're looking at what archaeology can do to contribute to the discussion of how we can perhaps adapt to climate change conditions today."