Date: March 18, 1997                        Contact: Rodney Snedeker
For Immediate Release                       Forest Archaeologist
                                            National Forests in NC
                                            704-257-4255

                   FOREST SERVICE OFFERS "PASSPORT IN TIME"

    Volunteers can pick up a trowel and delve into North Carolina's past this

spring by signing up now through April 15 for an archaeological dig in the

Nantahala National Forest.

    The U.S. Forest Service is sponsoring the excavation, held June 1-15 at

Appletree Campground near Andrews.  The event is part of the Forest Service's

nationwide program, "Passport in Time."  The program gives volunteers an

opportunity to assist in survey, excavation and restoration of significant

historic and archaeological sites on public land.  "Passport in Time" also

unlocks the doors of Native American history.

    "Volunteers can expect to find artifacts that could date from 200 to 10,000

years ago," said Forest Archaeologist Rodney Snedeker.  "They could discover 

stone tools, pottery and Native American and early settler house remains."

    The excavation will be the fourth held at the Wayah District's Appletree

Campground.  Last season, more than 100 volunteers came from across the country

and as far away as New Zealand to take part in this historical adventure.

    "We look forward to working with volunteers again this year," said

Snedeker.  "Many find that the digging is hard work, but the joy of discovery

and the knowledge gained is worth all the effort."

    Volunteers must be 18 years old or 12 to 17 and accompanied by an adult.

Applicants must work a minimum of 3 days.  Camping is available at the site,

which includes water, showers and toilets.

    To obtain applications, please contact Forest Archaeologist Rodney Snedeker

at 704-257-4255 or the information receptionist at 704-257-4200.  Volunteers

may also pick up applications at Forest Service offices in Asheville off U.S.

19/23's UNCA exit, at the Wayah District Office in Franklin, or other district

offices.