Ontario Association of Professional Archaeologists Latest News

Newsletter 2025.2 (Fall 2025)

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 18:51:34 GMT

We hope that all members have a few minutes to relax over the holidays and to kick back with APA's latest Newsletter for Fall 2025.

Members: check your email inbox for the latest APA Newsletter (2025:2 New Series).

If you don't see this email, please send a note to members@apaontario.ca

Newsletter 2025:1 (Spring)

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 21:49:01 GMT

Summer Solstice is just about here, have a happy National Indigenous Peoples Day!

Members: check your email inbox for the latest APA Newsletter (2025:1 New Series).

If you don't see this email, please send a note to members@apaontario.ca

The newsletter has also been posted to our Member Resources page.

'Ask An Expert' with Ian Hember -- resources available from the Burials Unit

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 18:57:06 GMT

Members may access the slide deck and handouts provided by Ian Hember by logging in to the Members' Only part of the website here: Member Resources (home).

Ian's 'Ask An Expert' session was full with presentation material and questions/discussion! A recap is being included in the upcoming Newsletter (2025.1)

APA Ontario's AGM followed by Ask An Expert on June 14th

Sat, 17 May 2025 01:50:59 GMT

Members -- join us online on Saturday June 14th at 10am for our Association's Annual General Meeting :) The draft minutes from the 2024 AGM will be circulated in advance.

Following the AGM, Ian Hember will provide our next Ask An Expert session! Read more about it (and register) here: APA's Ask An Expert ~ with Ian Hember ~ Registrar - Ontario Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act (FBCSA) (registration is free for members, $10 for guests)

Newsletter 2024:2 (Fall), plus short survey on Archaeology Review process

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 23:06:48 GMT

Happy and safe holidays to everyone!

Members: check your email inbox for the latest APA Newsletter (2024:2 New Series), and an invitation/link to a short survey on your experiences with the Archaeology Review process.

If you don't see this email, please send a note to members@apaontario.ca

Newsletter 2024:1 (Spring) has been circulated to members :)

Thu, 30 May 2024 14:14:48 GMT

Circulated to members via email on May 30, 2024. Also available in the Members' Only section of the website here.

Newsletter 2023:2 (Fall) available to members

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:17:19 GMT

Newsletter 2023:1 (new series) has been circulated to members

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 16:37:53 GMT

APA Members receive the latest version of our newsletter directly to their email inboxes.

Newsletter issue 2023:1 Spring has been emailed to members, and is also available here.

Featured in this issue:

The Importance of Language Dialects - a correction/explanation relating to Newsletter 2022:2; and an insightful contribution by Julie Kapyrka, sharing the teachings of Anne Taylor (Curve Lake First Nation), on the use of respectful suffixes to one's name when that person is no longer living in this physical realm

The Algonquin and Huron Alliance: Using Oral Tradition, History and Archaeology to Understand True Relationships in 17th Century New France, by Lawrence Jackson

Congratulations to the winner of the random Radiocarbon Date Lottery and to the winners of the Book Draw!

Spring Awards for Members

updated article from Newsletter 2022:2 (new series) is available

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 00:20:40 GMT

Julie Kapyrka has kindly provided an updated version of the article from Newsletter 2022:2 entitled 'Miigwech Gidigaa Migizi-ban, My Friend', which is now available to members on the Member Resources tab (follow the link and log in to navigate to the page).

As a bonus, a preview from Newsletter 2023:1 is also there entitled 'The Importance of Language Dialects'. Miigwech to Anne Taylor of Curve Lake First Nation and to Julie Kapyrka for sharing these important language lessons with our members!

Newsletter 2022:2 (new series) has been circulated to members

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:13:29 GMT

The current newsletter, New Series 2022:2, has been circulated to members via email, and members can access it by logging in to the website and heading to the Member Resources landing page :)

Introducing the 2022-2024 Board of Directors!

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 15:41:22 GMT

Firstly, many thanks to Nadine Kopp, who has just completed 2 terms on the Board! Nadine has been so very helpful with Board tasks, Newsletter Editing and social media communications, and recently Chaired the Nominations Committee for the 2022-24 Board!

To contact the current Board of Directors members, send an email to members@apaontario.ca, or contact an officer or director individually via the Executive Directory.

APA's 2022 Annual General Meeting ~ rsvp on the event page

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 01:21:44 GMT

Our online Annual General Meeting by Zoom will take place on Saturday July 9th at 10am, followed by a look at Collections and Repositories.

Members in attendance will be entered into a random draw to receive a complementary box submission to the Sustainable Archaeology repository, courtesy of APA Ontario!

The *preregistration signup link* has been emailed directly to all current APA Ontario members.

If you would like to register and can't find your email invitation, just drop a line to members@apaontario.ca or visit the event page here.

Nomination period is now closed for the 2022-24 Board of Directors

Sat, 07 May 2022 12:03:56 GMT

The nomination window closed at midnight last night for the next term of the Board of Directors. The Nominations Committee will now contact all candidates who were nominated.

We appreciate the time given by all members who are able to serve the Ontario APA at this time!

Best Regards from the 2020-2022 Board of Directors,

Cathy, Dixie, Jordan, Josh, Laura, Laurie and Nadine

Notice of Election and Call for Nominations

Sat, 30 Apr 2022 16:08:02 GMT

Members, check your email inboxes for our Notice of Election and Call for Nominations! (deadline for nominations/self-nominations: May 6th)

Prov. News Release: Ontario Expanding Fourth-Dose Eligibility

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 23:14:35 GMT

Ontario Expanding Fourth-Dose Eligibility

Additional booster dose will provide an extra layer of protection against severe illness and hospitalization

April 06, 2022

TORONTO — The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is expanding eligibility for fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to individuals aged 60 and over as well as First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over starting on April 7, 2022. Expanding booster eligibility will provide an extra layer of protection against the Omicron and BA.2 variants and, in addition to antivirals, are another tool the province is using to live with and manage COVID-19.

“As we continue to live with COVID-19, we are using every tool available to manage this virus and reduce its impact on our hospitals and health system, including by expanding the use of booster doses,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Vaccines are our best defence against COVID-19 and its variants. Because of our exceptionally high vaccination rates and Ontario’s cautious approach, we currently have one of the lowest hospitalization rates in the country and have performed well throughout this pandemic when compared to other similar sized provinces and states. I encourage everyone who’s eligible to get boosted as soon as you’re able.”

Starting on Thursday, April 7 at 8:00 a.m., eligible individuals will be able to book their fourth dose appointment through the COVID-19 vaccination portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900, directly through public health units that use their own booking systems, through Indigenous-led vaccination clinics, participating pharmacies, and participating primary care settings. Booster doses are being offered to these individuals at a recommended interval of five months after receiving their last booster.

Locations and timing for additional boosters may vary by public health unit based on local planning and considerations.

Ontario has been offering fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine since December 30, 2021 to vulnerable populations including residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, First Nation elder care lodges and older adults in other congregate care settings that provide assisted-living and health services. Providing additional boosters to these groups has helped to prevent serious outcomes in the population during the Omicron wave.

All eligible Ontarians are encouraged to get their fourth dose as soon as possible. As with vaccines for other diseases, you are protected best when you stay up to date.

'Ask An Expert' returns for 2022 with a virtual tour in Sustainable Archaeology McMaster!

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 01:36:26 GMT

Members and Guests, join us online with Dr. Scott Martin as he chats about the Sustainable Archaeology McMaster repository for archaeological artifact collections and its capacity for research opportunities as well!

When: Friday February 11th ~ 7-9pm EST

Where: online via Zoom

Who: APA Ontario members (free event) & Guests/non-members ($10)

~ follow this link to learn more and to register ~

~ New title available in APA's Online Store ~

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 17:08:44 GMT

Our members continue to publish!

Check out the newest title in the Our Lands Speak series:

"The Archaeology, History, and Architecture of the Philip Eckhardt Log House: The Oldest House in the City of Markham, Ontario, Canada" by George W.J. Duncan and Bill Finlayson, which is available for purchase here in the Online Store.

Launch of APA's Occasional Papers No. 4: The Introduction and Diffusion of Cultivated Plants in Southern Ontario by R. Fecteau

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 22:33:11 GMT

The fourth publication in the digital series APA's Occasional Papers in Archaeology is ** Now Available ** to APA Ontario members!

This volume is Rudy Fecteau’s Masters thesis that was defended in 1985. Fecteau's original thesis focused on macrofossil remains from Indigenous sites, many of which came from late 19th and early 20th century sources. To this he added archaeobotanical information from reports which he had completed. Since that time there have been many developments which have greatly increased the amount of information available. Government guidelines and proliferation of Cultural Resource Management companies have contributed to this increase, particularly in Euro-Canadian sites. Recent developments in microfossil study techniques have also expanded understanding of previous plant use. Publication of Fecteau's thesis contributes to a baseline for further research regarding the introduction and spread of cultivated plants as well as the use of native plants in Ontario.

Members can download the full colour .pdf at this link.

Non-members also have access to Rudy's thesis in APA's Online Store.

Congratulations to Rudy and many thanks to series editor Scott Hamilton for producing this much-needed publication!

'Ask An Expert' edition #5: Archaeobotany in Ontario from Precontact to Euro-Canadian

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 16:48:16 GMT

Join us on Wednesday July 21st (7-9pm eastern) when Rudy Fecteau will share his vast knowledge and insights about his research specialty! Send in your questions ahead of time!

Read more and register by following this link.

deadline approaching: Indigenous Post-Secondary Student Bursary

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 15:22:00 GMT

Applications are being accepted until July 15th for APA's Indigenous Post-Secondary Student Bursary, valued at $750.

Eligible members are in good standing (current members); a part-time or full-time undergraduate or graduate student who is currently enrolled in courses pertaining to the study of cultural resource management and which are relevant to the discipline of Archaeology/CRM in Ontario and its closely related fields of knowledge (i.e. Indigenous studies, applied landscape GIS, etc); and of First Nations, Métis or Inuit descent.

To read more follow this link.

Gov't News: Ontario Supporting the Identification and Commemoration of Indian Residential School Burial Sites

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 15:31:22 GMT

Province partnering with Indian Residential School survivors, families and Indigenous leaders on a community-led approach

June 15, 2021

The Ontario government is providing $10 million to help support the identification, investigation, protection and commemoration of Indian Residential School burial sites across the province. The funding will also ensure that culturally appropriate, trauma-informed mental health supports are available for Indian Residential School survivors, their families and Indigenous communities.

Read the full news article Here.

APA Ontario's 2021 AGM: RSVP to get your meeting link

Wed, 12 May 2021 01:30:17 GMT

Our online Annual General Meeting by Zoom will take place on Saturday June 5th at 10am, followed by a book reading by Nick Adams from "Archaeology Life In the Trenches: It Ain't All Gold Masks and Crystal Skulls".

And that's not all! The AGM will be followed by our 'Ask An Expert' session on Land Registration: From Petition to Patent and Beyond with Nadine Kopp from noon til 2pm!

The *preregistration signup link* will be emailed directly to all current APA Ontario members.

If you would like to register and can't find your email invitation, just drop a line to members@apaontario.ca or visit the event page here.

next two 'Ask An Expert' sessions are on deck!

Wed, 12 May 2021 01:24:31 GMT

Join us for the evening on Wednesday May 26th for Nick Gromoff's session to learn more about the coinage and monetary system of Pre-confederation Ontario!

Check out the details here.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Next Up! Land Registration: From Petition to Patent and Beyond with Nadine Kopp on Saturday June 5th from noon to 2pm (immediately following the late morning AGM)

Stay-at-Home order: Questions answered

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 15:41:51 GMT

Excerpt from CTV News:

"The stay-at-home order, which by law allows people to only leave their home for essential reasons, goes into effect as of 12:01 a.m. on April 8.

Ford said the stay-at-home order will be very similar to the one that was put into effect in January, with a few exceptions.

This is the second time Ontario has been placed under a stay-at-home order.

Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about the stay-at-home order:

How long will the stay-at-home order be in effect?

Ontario will be under a provincewide stay-at-home order for at least 28 days, which is until May 6.

The order can be extended if the government deems it necessary.

What is considered an essential trip?

The Ontario government admitted during the first stay-at-home order back in January they can't determine what is essential for every person in the province.

They provided a list of categories people should consider before leaving their home, which include food, health-care services (including medication and vaccines), exercise, or work when someone’s job can't be done at home.

Here's a more detailed list of what the Ontario government considers essential.

... (more in original article)...

What are the rules for the construction industry?

According to the government, construction activities or projects and related supporting services, including demolition and land surveying, are allowed."

Full article found here.

APA's "Ask An Expert" online series launched: check Events for upcoming sessions

Sat, 27 Mar 2021 17:00:53 GMT

APA Ontario brings you a new series of 'Ask An Expert' online sessions for 2021, the first one focused on Historic Period artifacts and features.

A casual format for peers to chat, compare finds and interpretations, and for everyone to learn a little something they didn't know before!

Keep an eye on our Upcoming Events tab for the next session -- they are all free to members!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

New Titles Available through APA's Online Store

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 14:08:40 GMT

Our list of members' publications is growing!

Visit APA's Online Store to check out current and upcoming titles.

Learn more about APA's Occasional Paper Series and about some of APA's members who are spotlighting Ontario's archaeology and history!

If you are an APA Ontario member, send us info about your titles so we can help spread the word about your publications.

Upcoming Member Awards deadlines

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 16:47:41 GMT

Friendly reminder to all members to consider which of APA's member awards would support your path:

* Student Bursary Awards for part-time and full-time students: March 15th

* Reserve Lands Research Award: April 1st

* Radiocarbon Date Merit Award: April 30th

...contact Cathy, APA's Administrative Secretary, at members@apaontario.ca with any questions :)

Ratification of new C14 calibration curves

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 16:17:11 GMT

Ratification of new calibration curves:

As you may have heard, or noticed in your reports as of late, the international radiocarbon community has officially ratified the new calibration curves: IntCal20, SHCal20, and Marine20.

Wondering how this may affect your radiocarbon dates? Read more on the A.E. Lalonde Lab tab.

updates in Covid-19 info tab relating to Ontario's second shutdown

Sat, 16 Jan 2021 13:13:40 GMT

Head to APA's Covid-19 tab to find information and quick links about:

- the province's Stay-at-Home order

- the new Small Business Grant

- compliance and enforcement of the Stay-at-Home order

Province-wide Shutdown on Dec 26th and other Covid-19 news

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 20:01:25 GMT

The Province of Ontario will switch to shutdown procedures on December 26th. Details can be found at news.ontario.ca, and other covid-19 related news and information relevant to our profession can be found in one place at APA's Covid-19 tab for members.

Prov. News Release on a specific "essential worker"

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 19:55:13 GMT

A little lighthearted news from the Province today...

Statement

Ontario Declares Santa Claus an Essential Service

December 17, 2020

Premier Doug Ford issued the following statement on Santa Claus' annual delivery of gifts:

"As children across Ontario count down the days to Christmas with excitement, I want to reassure all the boys and girls out there that Santa is still coming this year despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

As Premier, I have officially designated Santa Claus as an essential service provider and authorized to deliver toys, treats and good cheer to the children of Ontario. I have also designated the Elves' Toy Workshop as an essential manufacturing business and authorized to supply Santa Claus with toys and gifts. Finally, Santa's Reindeer, including Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph, are proclaimed essential transportation service providers and permitted to pull Santa's sleigh across every part of Ontario.

Santa and his reindeer have one of the most essential jobs of all, delivering toys to all the good children in Ontario and around the world every Christmas Eve. While this Christmas is different than any other, Santa is taking every safety precaution necessary and will continue to make his rounds.

I would like to thank Santa Claus, the elves, reindeer and all of Ontario's essential workers this holiday season. From nurses to construction workers, personal care workers to grocery store clerks and so many other essential workers, we are grateful for the hard work you have done all year long.

From my family to yours, I want to wish everyone a healthy and safe Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season!"

CONTACTS

Ivana Yelich
Premier’s Office
Ivana.Yelich@ontario.ca

Office of the Premier
http://www.ontario.ca/premier

Prov. News Release: working group on Conservation Authorities

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 19:42:43 GMT

Given that a large number of as yet unknown and potentially undisturbed archaeological resources lay protected on Conservation Lands, this news seems promising. Keep an eye out for calls for Public Consultation in 2021 so that we can increase awareness for the protection of cultural resources on public lands.

- Cathy Crinnion, APA Administrative Secretary

~~~~~~~~~~~

News Release

Ontario Announces Working Group to Better Focus Conservation Authorities

December 16, 2020

Input will lead to improved conservation and protection of the province’s water, land and natural resources

TORONTO — The Ontario government is creating a working group to help implement changes to conservation authorities. Hassaan Basit, President and CEO of Conservation Halton will chair the new group which will provide input on the development of proposed regulations under the Conservation Authorities Act, and on how conservation authorities are governed.

"As we move forward together, we want to build stronger relationships with conservation authorities so we can work together to ensure consistent best practices, good governance and appropriate accountability to best serve the people of Ontario," said Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. "I'd like to thank Hassaan Basit for the discussions over the last few weeks which helped inform some recent amendments to the legislative changes to ensure conservation authorities have the tools they need to protect their communities. I look forward to continuing our positive and constructive dialogue towards our shared goals."

As part of the government's commitment to ensuring conservation authorities focus and deliver on their core mandate of protecting people and property from flooding and other natural hazards and conserving natural resources, the province introduced legislative changes through Bill 229, Protect, Support and Recover from COVID-19 Act, 2020, which received Royal Assent on December 8, 2020. Amendments were made to the Bill based on valuable feedback from stakeholder groups, including conservation authorities.

The new working group will include representatives from conservation authorities and other experts. Representatives of the working group will be announced in the coming weeks.

Once they begin work in January, the working group will provide input to help the province develop regulations that will focus on:

The mandatory core programs and services conservation authorities would be required to provide,
The agreements between municipalities and conservation authorities and the transition period associated with non-mandatory programs and services, and
How local members of the community can participate in their conservation authorities through community advisory boards.

"Partnerships and collaboration are critical to ensure that conservation authorities can continue making watershed-based resource management decisions in the interest of the environment, health, and safety," said Hassaan Basit, President and CEO, Conservation Halton. "Alongside conservation authorities across Ontario, Conservation Halton is looking forward to working with the province, offering scientific expertise and leadership, in the development of regulations pertaining to recent amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act contained in Bill 229."

In addition to the input provided by Hassaan Basit and the working group, Ontario will also be seeking the public's feedback on regulatory and governance proposals through the Environmental Registry. Public consultation on these proposals is also expected to begin early in the new year.

QUICK FACTS

The Protect, Support and Recover from COVID-19 Act, 2020 included amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act such as:
- Enabling officers appointed by conservation authorities to issue stop work orders, defined in a way that is consistent with entry powers without warrants. This will help ensure conservation authorities have effective enforcement tools in place to stop significant threats and impacts to the environment.
- Requiring 70 per cent of members appointed to a conservation authority by a participating municipality be members of council, as well as allowing the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks to provide an exception from this rule at the request of a municipality.
- Allowing conservation authorities to appeal or be party to an appeal as a public body, under certain provisions of the Planning Act in the context of prescribed natural hazards matters.
Ontario is served by 36 conservation authorities.
The Ontario government recently announced a $30 million investment in a new Wetlands Conservation Partner Program to help conservation organizations create and restore wetlands in priority areas across the province.

now in APA's Online Store: 'The Draper Site'

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 00:23:36 GMT

'The Draper Site, an Ontario Woodland Tradition Frontier Coalescent Village in Southern Ontario, Canada: Looking Back, Moving Forward' by Dr. Bill Finlayson (2020, Our Lands Speak - Occasional Papers in Ontario Archaeology No.2).

Check it out at our Online Store and check out Bill's Blog at BillFinlayson.ca!

changes in the province on Nov 23rd

Sat, 21 Nov 2020 18:51:49 GMT

"Based on the latest data, the following public health unit regions will move from their current level in the framework to the following levels effective Monday, November 23, 2020 at 12:01 a.m.:

Red-Control
- Durham Region Health Department; and
- Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services.

Orange-Restrict
- Huron Perth Public Health;
- Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit;
- Southwestern Public Health; and
- Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.

Yellow-Protect
- Chatham-Kent Public Health;
- Eastern Ontario Health Unit;
- Grey Bruce Health Unit;
- Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health;
- Peterborough Public Health; and
- Thunder Bay District Health Unit."

For more related info, log in and visit APA's Covid-19 tab or head to the Government of Ontario's Newsroom.

Treaty Implementation (an excerpt)

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 20:32:41 GMT

A timely discussion about treaties published today in firstpeopleslaw.com:

Treaty Implementation: The Crown’s Ongoing Failure

By Kate Gunn

This fall has been marked with acts of violence and intimidation by non-Indigenous commercial fishers against members of the Mi’kmaq Nation in Nova Scotia seeking to carry out their treaty right to fish.

These actions, and the accompanying inaction on the part of law enforcement officials, are a stark reminder that racism remains a persistent part of Canadian society.

They also point to another significant barrier to the processes of decolonization and reconciliation – the ongoing failure of the federal and provincial governments in Canada to uphold and implement treaties between Indigenous Peoples and the Crown.

In this post, we examine current developments in relation to treaty rights and their implications for Indigenous Peoples.

Why are Treaty rights important? ...

..........

Read the full article at:

https://www.firstpeopleslaw.com

About the author:

Kate Gunn is a lawyer at First Peoples Law Corporation. Kate completed her Master's of Law at the University of British Columbia. Her most recent academic essay, "Agreeing to Share: Treaty 3, History & the Courts," was published in the UBC Law Review.

more of Ontario now in Modified Stage 2

Sat, 17 Oct 2020 00:32:08 GMT

York Region now joins Ottawa, Peel and Toronto in a Modified Stage 2, with additional health measures to stop the spread and contain the Second Wave of Covid-19. Read more in APA's Covid-19 info tab.

Stage 3 of Reopening in some areas on July 17th

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 12:02:41 GMT

"The Ontario government has announced nearly all businesses and public spaces will reopen in Stage 3 of the province’s reopening framework with public health and workplace safety measures and restrictions in place. As Ontario continues down the path to economic recovery, decisions on which regions will enter Stage 3 and when will be made in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other health experts and based on trends of key public health indicators."

For the full list of affected regions and additional details, read more in the Covid-19 info tab.

Masks becoming mandatory

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 12:49:24 GMT

Mandatory wearing of masks in public indoor spaces is mandatory (with some exceptions) as of today in Toronto, elsewhere in the GTA likely in the coming days. Read more, full link to article here.

APA's Virtual 2020 AGM and Paper Presentation

Sat, 20 Jun 2020 23:22:03 GMT

The *preregistration signup link* has been emailed directly to all current APA Ontario members.

If you would like to register and can't find your email invitation, just drop a line to members@apaontario.ca

Virtual AGM by Zoom will take place on Saturday June 27th at 10am, followed by the paper presentation Patterson Village: The Archaeology of a 19th Century Company Town by Dr. Bill Finlayson.

Newsletter 2020:1 (Spring)

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 19:30:36 GMT

The latest APA Newsletter has been emailed directly to members, and will also be available here.

Health & Safety members' forum: "Eyes on the Ground"

Thu, 21 May 2020 21:36:09 GMT

Members can now contribute to discussions about personal protective equipment, locations to access washrooms and food while on the road, and more -- to help keep everyone current who is participating in archaeological assessments during the pandemic.

Please contribute the information that you have, and subscribe to specific discussion topics to stay current!

"Eyes on the Ground" H&S Forum -- Go!

Advisory to APA Members (legal opinion included)

Fri, 08 May 2020 19:36:04 GMT

We are very pleased to report that as of this morning, and pursuant to several of our discussions with the Ontario Homebuilders Association, we now have a legal letter in hand which identifies archaeology as a preparatory study for essential construction activity. This letter was shared with us in recognition of our profession being an important part of the development industry and needing definition under Emergency Regulations.

Head to the Covid-19 tab for members to read more.

Covid-19 Health and Safety Protocol examples

Fri, 08 May 2020 00:46:01 GMT

Various examples of health and safety protocols are now being added to the Covid-19 library of resources.

Ontario Further Eases Restrictions

Thu, 07 May 2020 16:20:12 GMT

Yesterday's Ontario Government release widens permitted construction activity to include the beginning of below grade condos and apartments and continuance of above-grade projects. Again, there is no specific mention of pre-approval support or preparation studies such as archaeology. This is more than likely a significant oversight on the part of those drafting these documents. In fact, we located today on a government website a definition of site preparation activity and servicing which clearly does not include work such as ours. We are seeking clarification from government and the housing industry. We will post new information tomorrow.

Members can read more at apaontario.ca/coronavirus.

Link to the original Government news release.

APA's Coronavirus library of resources

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 11:45:30 GMT

Members now have access to a compilation of Covid-19-related resources on a dedicated tab, including this week's Provincial Framework for Reopening. The resources in this tab will continue to be added to, for easy reference. Log in to visit the Covid-19 tab in the Member Resources section.

Advisory to APA Members re: Task Force and re: CEWS

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 23:18:34 GMT

APA's Covid-19 Archaeology Implementation Task Force:

First, we want to assure members that we are constantly working on issues even if this is not immediately visible to you – as in the Duty to Consult and Obligation to Engage, Investigation committee proceedings on behalf of members, planning workshops and First Nation sessions, etc. But we do appreciate your suggestions. On this particular issue with Covid-19, we believe that legal advice is a second-best choice when what is needed is pro-active “essential” designation of our field work. This petition is in process as we speak with a special APA Task Force in place and connecting.

Since there are ample financial measures now from the Federal Government to ensure at least short-term business survival, and APA has directed you to these, as well as to informational seminars, there is no current reason for archaeological work to take place other than for the essential services noted by the province. We urge you to stay home unless you are part of an essential project.

Some of you may not know that substantial fines are already being levied by inspectors in the construction industry as well as to environmental and other firms who have been operating without clear definition and even with essential definition but without adequate Health and Safety protocols in place.

APA is pursuing a more definitive status for our profession and projecting what protocols need to be in place for a return to work in the period after the peak of the epidemic. We will advise as soon as we have concrete information to share.

We definitely appreciate helpful suggestions. Please touch base via members@apaontario.ca

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The following was made available for APA's members through Jessica Foster at the O'Keefe Accounting Group (JFoster@okeefecpa.ca).

As you may be aware, the Federal Government has recently made several important announcements regarding COVID-19 programs.

Members, please check your email inbox which includes an attached summary of changes and further resources for Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS).

Communique re: Covid-19 Financial Impacts

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 00:24:03 GMT

APA circulated an email to its members today with some information and guidance for businesses and individuals during the pandemic.

If you didn't receive your copy, send an email to members@apaontario.ca

Highlights:

- temporary reduction of APA membership fees

- postponement of payments for the group insurance plan

- resources from an accountant to help navigate government relief programs and other financial advice

Message from Ministry of Culture (MHSTCI) re: COVID-19

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 16:01:59 GMT

From: Archaeology (MHSTCI) ~~ Friday, March 27 at 11:49am

To: All Licencees

Subject: COVID-19 emergency order and Indigenous community engagement

On Monday the province issued an emergency order to close at-risk workplaces and encourage non-essential businesses to find ways to help their employees work from home. This order will remain in effect for 14 days with the possibility of extension as the pandemic situation evolves. A list of essential businesses can be found here.

What does this mean for the archaeology sector?

All archeological licensees, archaeology sector organizations and businesses, are expected to comply with the Emergency Order requirements, as appropriate.

Business owners must take the necessary steps to keep their employees, clients and customers safe, and ensure that they are following the Emergency Order and the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health.

Business owners should review the list of essential business which are authorized to stay open, determine whether they fit into any of the categories and, if they do, make a business decision as to whether to stay open and/or adapt their operations. Business owners are encouraged to speak with their legal representative to determine whether their business falls within the definition of an essential business.

Businesses who have questions about closures of at-risk workplaces or how the emergency order impacts their business or employment can call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659. Help is available from Monday to Sunday, from 8:30a.m.―5:00p.m.

For information on COVID-19, visit the Ministry of Health’s website.

What does this mean for the Archaeology Program Unit?

Ontario’s Past Portal (PastPort) remains accessible 24 hours a day. The Archaeology Program Unit continues to operate with staff working remotely. We continue to:

issue and renew archaeological licences
assign PIF numbers to projects
review archaeological reports
process archaeological report due date extension requests
process expedited review requests for archaeological assessment reports
respond to requests for technical advice
carry out all other business functions

Contacting Archaeology Program Unit staff

If you need to reach a member of the Archaeology Team, please email them, copying archaeology@ontario.ca. Copying archaeology@ontario.ca will help us ensure you will receive a response, in the event that the person you are trying to reach becomes unavailable.

License reporting deadlines

At this time, report filing deadlines remain in effect, but please notify the program should meeting deadlines become challenging for you or your company. You may continue to formally request extensions where needed through PastPort.

Indigenous community engagement

All Ontarians, including Indigenous communities, are currently facing unique challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It must be recognized that the pandemic situation may affect an Indigenous community’s capacity to be engaged on archaeological projects or have Field Liaison Representatives participate in archaeological fieldwork.

In response to COVID-19, many band councils have chosen to close their offices temporarily. Meetings and gatherings across the province have been cancelled, including those in First Nation communities. Some First Nations have declared a state of emergency in response to COVID-19 and/or are self-isolating.

Despite the current pandemic, consultant archaeologists must continue to meet all applicable standards for Indigenous community engagement under the 2011 Standards and Guidelines for Consultant Archaeologists.

When planning Indigenous community engagement on a project, archaeologists should give consideration to an Indigenous community's capacity to be engaged during this emergency. Band council offices may not be open to receive requests for engagement, community consultation meetings may be cancelled, and human resource capacity, already a challenge for many Indigenous communities, may be stretched further. Lack of responses to engagement notices or meeting requests at this time should not be interpreted as a refusal or lack of interest to participate in the engagement process.

Flexibility is key to ensuring meaningful community engagement processes continue. The following are some suggestions, but it is best for archaeologists to speak with Indigenous communities to determine how they would like to be engaged at this time:

Extend the time for Indigenous communities to respond to engagement requests
Offer virtual opportunities for communities to participate in engagement
Offer regular teleconference updates about the archaeological work
Offer "physical distance" monitoring opportunities
Discuss other engagement opportunities suggested by Indigenous communities
Postpone archaeological projects where engagement is not feasible at this time

If you have any questions or concerns, please email archaeology@ontario.ca.

Thank you,

The Archaeology Program Unit

Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries

APA's Occasional Papers Series now available to non-members

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 14:54:50 GMT

Occasional Papers No.1, 2 and 3 are now available to non-members in full-colour .pdf format for a nominal fee of only $10 each ~

~ head to the 'APA Publications and Reports' tab to see the abstracts and to access the online store

Note: APA Ontario members have free access to these excellent publications -- join now to access the myriad of member benefits!

Postponement due to Coronavirus distancing

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 14:20:51 GMT

~ the next workshop of Plants and Archaeology set for March 22nd is now planned for May 3rd ~

There is one spot left in this final session of the archaeobotany workshop series. Email members@apaontario.ca if you would like that spot!

Plants and Archaeology workshops: last few spots open to APA guests

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 21:19:58 GMT

Rudy Fecteau's archaeobotany workshop has been getting rave reviews from its participants! Now, the final few spots are available to both APA members and to APA guests.

Follow this link to the Events tab to view more details!

Notice of Election / Call for Nominations

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 14:15:06 GMT

Dear APA Members

We are coming upon another opportunity for you to serve on APA's Board of Directors -- for the 2020-22 term. You can self-nominate or have a fellow APA member nominate you. The term will be from the 2020 AGM (April 25th) until the AGM in the spring of 2022.

Nominations can be sent to Dave Norris, Chair of the Nominations Committee via email at members@apaontario.ca. Eligible members are those in good standing in the Professional and First Nations Consultation Staff categories; Field Director members and First Nations Liaison members who are interested in joining the Board as liaisons/representatives for their membership groups should also be nominated, as one member from each of these categories will be appointed.

We ask for all nominations to be submitted to the Nominations Committee no later than February 21st, 2020 (close of nominations at 11:59pmEST). We would also ask that all individuals nominated (or self-nominated) to please provide a one paragraph biography/ election statement by that time which will be appended to the slate of candidates on the election ballot.

Wondering what the volunteer Board of Directors (Executive Members) do and how much of a commitment it is? Send your questions to members@apaontario.ca

Board positions will be selected by the directors at their first Executive Meeting following the Election. Board positions include the four offices of President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, and the directors’ positions have most recently been Membership Director, Newsletter Editor/Communications Director, Northern Ontario Director, Director of First Nations Relations, Research and Investigations Director; and the Field Directors Liaison is also a standing Board appointment. New for the 2020-2022 term will be a Board appointment from among the First Nations Liaisons.

Directors’ portfolios will be determined at the first Executive Meeting following the Election.

Thank you to all who volunteer in various capacities to assist their fellow APA members!

Newsletter 2019:2 in circulation

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 14:43:32 GMT

The latest newsletter is in members' email inboxes as of January 22nd. Enjoy!

To contribute to an upcoming APA newsletter, contact Newsletter Editor Nadine Kopp through our Members' Directory.

Now Available! Archaeobotany Workshops for APA members

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 02:01:02 GMT

Register soon for your choice of 1 of 5 'Plants and Archaeology' workshops by Rudy Fecteau! Spaces are very limited, to receive a high quality hands-on experience.

Go to our Events page to see which spaces are left!

statement to the Province re: Provincial Policy Statement changes

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 01:15:03 GMT

Letter from the APA to the Hon. Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing re: the proposed changes to the PPS

20191021_APAToMinisterClark rePPS revisions.pdf

First Nations membership categories in APA

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 12:30:36 GMT

APA is committed to broaden the membership base for all types of specialists who work directly with Ontario's archaeological resources and cultural landscapes.

APA membership is open to those who may not have formal training in archaeology but are employed by their Nation as resource specialists in lands/resources and cultural heritage or as archaeological liaisons/monitors for their Nation.

The Membership Categories page contains descriptions for First Nations Consultation Staff membership, First Nations Liaison membership, and Associate membership.

letter from APA to Greg Rickford on January 20, 2019 regarding Bill 66

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 21:57:06 GMT

follow this link to our 'Government Lobbying' page for a copy of this letter to the Minister of Indigenous Affairs

APA's Winter Newsletter is now published

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 20:24:27 GMT

Active members have received their copies of the Newsletter, winter edition 2018.2, by email today. If you have not received yours, send a quick note to members@apaontario.ca

Past issues of APA's Newsletter are available at Newsletter Archives

a note about MTCS fact sheets

Sat, 19 Jan 2019 20:42:32 GMT

Some of you may have noticed that the MTCS web page has taken down many of its Fact Sheets. We asked Katherine Cappella (Manager, Archaeology Program Unit) if she could advise of the reason and she has given permission to share this helpful reply:

As for the fact sheets on our website, in the fall it came to our attention that several of the links on our website were dead or pointing users to older/outdated versions of documents. We had all of the links disabled so that we could review the documents up on the website and replace any outdated ones with the most recent versions. Our communications team (which is an entity outside the archaeology unit) continues to work on this. In the meantime, if members with licences need a copy of any of our publications, including fact sheets, they can find them in PastPort’s Resource centre. Members can also email us at archaeology@ontario.ca to request a copy of any publication or form. -KC

For other recent MTCS Archaeology updates, click on the following link: 2018Dec_MTCS_ManagerMemo.pdf

Workshop Notice: Michi Saagiig Oral History and Cultural Awareness

Sat, 19 Jan 2019 19:31:26 GMT

Both the TRC and UNDRIP highlight the need to include the oral histories and traditional knowledge of Indigenous Peoples within narratives that describe and characterize Indigenous pasts.

Ontario archaeologists have yet to integrate this must needed component to interpretations of the archaeological record. Oral histories and Indigenous Knowledge can offer comprehensive contextual layers when elucidating past realities. Current archaeological interpretation in Ontario is fairly limited to its Euro-Canadian paradigm and methodologies, but can be expanded to include a more balanced approach and generate more complete understandings of the past.

Join us for an educational workshop where Anishinaabeg Elders and Knowledge Holders will share some historical teachings and cultural knowledge with the APA. In the spirit of relationship building and reconciliation, it is hoped that this information sharing session will promote the application of Indigenous knowledge and oral traditions to archaeological interpretations and subsequent narratives in Ontario.

Further details will be announced soon!

If you want to be alerted directly about the event details and registration, send a quick email to members@apaontario.ca

Recent Member Awards awarded!

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 21:18:27 GMT

Happy New Year! The APA Executive members are pleased to congratulate recent recipients of the Student Bursary and the Radiocarbon Date Merit Award. Many thanks to the APA members who have been donating to the Student Bursaries, and many thanks to A.E. Lalonde Laboratories who provide the AMS C14 analyses for our member awards.

To read more about these members and their research, follow the links below.

2018-19 Post-Secondary Student Bursary: Josh Garrett

2018 Radiocarbon Date Merit Award: Daniel Smith

Radiocarbon Date Award deadline is December 15th

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 17:49:33 GMT

Contact members@apaontario.ca if you have a sample that needs dating!

http://apaontario.ca/c14Awards

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 21:24:52 GMT

We just created a LinkedIn profile. Follow us here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ontario-association-of-professional-archaeologists/

New Award Dates

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 22:16:01 GMT

We have updated the dates for several of our awards as follows:

The Student Bursary Awards have been extended to October 31st, 2018.

The Conference Travel Award has been extended to November 30th, 2018.

The Radiocarbon Date Award has been extended to December 15th, 2018.

Get your applications in for a chance to win!

- APA Board of Directors

Newsletter 2018:1 now in circulation for members

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 01:55:46 GMT

APA members should have received their Summer 2018 Newsletter via email -- if you did not receive your copy, send a quick message to members@apaontario.ca or visit our Member News tab to download the .pdf

Need information about existing Land Use Planning Tools for your project?

Sat, 28 Jul 2018 02:37:38 GMT

One of APA's Student Admin Assistants has combed the internet to see which Land Use Planning Tools have been utilized for each of the Upper Tier, Lower Tier and Single Tier municipalities in Ontario (up-to-date as of Dec.2017/Jan.2018).

Start your search in the 'Online Resources' tab.

Looking for First Nations Band contacts for your projects?

Sat, 28 Jul 2018 02:31:56 GMT

Now, APA members can log in to the members' only tab for 'First Nations Contacts and More' and follow the link to a database of last-known contacts for each Nation that was compiled by one of APA's Student Admin Assistants in Dec.2017/Jan.2018.

The tab also contains info for some Consultation Contacts as confirmed individually by APA's Director of First Nations Relations.

Explore this handy information to start your Engagement process at 'First Nations Contacts and More'.

APA on Twitter

Sat, 14 Jul 2018 01:30:43 GMT

We are now on Twitter! You can follow us @APA_Ontario for all the latest updates from the APA and happenings in archaeology in Ontario.

We're excited to participate in out first Twitter event on July 18th, "Ask An Archaeologist Day". So follow along with the hashtag #AskAnArchaeologist The idea is simple, those who want to know more about archaeology ask questions using #AskAnArchaeologist and archaeologists answer them.

letters from APA Executive to MTCS re: circulation of PIF information

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 01:47:32 GMT

Dear Members,

The following correspondence written by the APA Executive members has been posted to apaontario.ca/lobbying:

- letter regarding the release of PIF information to First Nations, Municipalities and other organizations (June 9, 2017)

- letter regarding the expanded release of PIF information (July 1, 2018)

Thank you to those members who submitted their thoughts and concerns about MTCS's plan to expand the release of PIF information -- your input greatly assisted the APA Executive and was included in our consolidated response to the Ministry.

Imminent expansion to MTCS release of PIF information

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 16:43:12 GMT

Dear APA Member,

You may recall last year's MTCS initiative to release PIF information to third parties and that we were the only one of three organizations contacted who consulted with our membership. The same initiative is now apparently going to be broadened to include release of client contact information to third parties. A copy of yesterday's MTCS letter is included below.

If you have any concerns please let us know right awaysend an email by July 1st to members@apaontario.cafor a consolidated reply from APA members ~ as for some unexplained reason MTCS decided on a one-week deadline for comments.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Bryant, Kathryn (MTCS) <Kathryn.Bryant@ontario.ca>
Date: 26 June 2018 at 11:24
Subject: upcoming changes to MTCS initiative
To: OAS President, APA President, CAA President

Good morning,

I am following up on an email sent in May 2017 by Jim Sherratt, former Manager of the Archaeology Program Unit, to the previous leaders of your organizations about a ministry communication initiative begun last summer to share data submitted to MTCS via the Project Information Forms (PIFs) in PastPortal. This initiative was in response to requests from a number of Indigenous communities, municipalities and others for information about the archaeological assessments being completed within their traditional territory, municipal boundaries or other defined area.

Beginning in July of 2017 MTCS began providing information on current archaeological activity through a monthly email distribution list. The list includes information from all new PIFs in Ontario for which numbers have been issued in a given month. It is provided as an Excel spreadsheet and includes name and licence number of the licensee, project title, stage of fieldwork, fieldwork start date, and municipality. The list is shared with all Indigenous communities, municipalities and organizations that request the information.

In June 2017 we received positive feedback and comments from the previous leaders of your organizations. I am writing today to seek comment on some upcoming changes to this initiative. Based on feedback we’ve been receiving from licensees and Indigenous communities in response to the monthly updates we will be adding some additional information to the list beginning in July 2018, including proponent name, as well as additional location details where available, such as Lot and Concession, latitude/longitude, UTM coordinates, and municipal/street address. This will enable Indigenous communities and municipalities to better understand the study area for each project and enable them to reach out to the proponent directly if they so desire. This approach addresses scenarios where a licensee may not be able to share their client information and who are encouraged, but not required (under the 2011 Standards and Guidelines for Consultant Archaeologists) to engage with Indigenous communities prior to Stage 3.

We will be announcing these changes to all licensees prior to releasing any additional PIF data. We would appreciate any comments you may have by July 3, 2018.

Thanks,

Katie

Kathryn Bryant

A/ Manager

Archaeology Program Unit | Programs and Services Branch

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport

401 Bay Street, Suite 1700

Toronto, Ontario

M7A 0A7

416-314-7132

Kathryn.Bryant@ontario.ca

APA Opinion Letter: Archaeologists' Obligation to Engage

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 01:35:57 GMT

This spring, the APA Board of Directors resolved to seek current legal opinion about Aboriginal Engagement in Archaeological Assessments, to assist and inform members. The resulting letter, available to APA members in the 'First Nations Contacts and More' tab and also the 'Members Resources: Tools' tab, provides an overview about the obligation to engage placed on professional archaeologists to engage with Aboriginal communities as distinct from the obligations imposed by the Crown's Duty to Consult.

Registrar's Directive for Licence Holders re: Cemetery Investigations

Thu, 03 May 2018 22:43:30 GMT

A copy of the Registrar’s Directive from the Bereavement Authority of Ontario dated April 11, 2018 is attached -- it outlines a requirement that professionally licensed archaeologists retained to conduct any invasive type of archaeological assessments or investigations within a cemetery submit a request to the Registrar for an Investigation Order prior to commencing the assessment.

Registrars Directive_Archaeological Assessments and Investigations on Cemetery Lands_Apr112018.pdf

more re: MTCS Culture Division staffing

Thu, 03 May 2018 01:00:24 GMT

APA's members who hold archaeological licences with the Ontario MTCS have been made aware this spring of additional staffing changes in the Archaeology Program Unit. For APA's other members, the letter circulated by MTCS with these staffing details is provided here.

Archaeo_Program_Updates 6-April-2018.pdf

Moreover, find included here correspondence endorsed by the APA Executive and sent by Laurie Jackson, APA's President, to Sean Fraser, the new Director of the Programs and Services Branch at MTCS.

20180327_APAtoSeanFraserMTCS.pdf

APA's Annual General Meeting discussions

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 14:14:07 GMT

Available in the Members' Lounge --> Meeting Minutes are the October 2015 AGM approved minutes and the November 2016 AGM draft minutes.

Members can be involved in the April 7th 2018 AGM remotely by signing in to Google Docs -- email the secretary, Cathy Crinnion via members@apaontario.ca for the link to the meeting, which will be 2:30-3:30pm.

Registration now open (until April 20th) for Workshop: 19th-20th Century Ceramics and Glass

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:46:22 GMT

The Association of Professional Archaeologists (Ontario) presents a workshop on Identifying and Dating 19th-20th Century Ceramics and Glass Containers. We are grateful to Dr. Munson for providing her expertise.

Date/Time: May the 4th... 9-4

Location: DNA C233, DNA Building, Trent University

Cost: $30 ~ Lunch included

Limitations: spaces are limited, therefore APA members* only

(*note that new members who join and attend this event will receive a 20% reimbursement on their 1-year membership fee!)

To Register: Click here to register at the event page on the APA website before April 20th.

Registration is now open (until April 2nd) for APA's 2018 AGM and Symposium

Sun, 11 Mar 2018 02:32:44 GMT

The APA's Board of Directors invites members to attend the Annual General Meeting and Symposium:

when? Saturday April 7th, 2018: 10:30am - 3:30pm

where? Curve Lake First Nation Community Centre, 20 Whetung St.E.

APA members will be treated to several presentations and to lunch catered by Grandfather's Kitchen ~ free of charge ~ ahead of the Annual General Meeting.

For more information about the event, visit the event page

Individuals who become a member and attend this event will receive a 20% discount on a 1-year membership! Read more about becoming a member.

Congratulations to the 2017-18 Student Bursary Recipients

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 15:09:10 GMT

APA's Indigenous Post-Secondary Student Bursary 2017-18 Recipient: Eliza Braden-Taylor

APA member Eliza Braden-Taylor from Curve Lake First Nation, who currently attends Sir Sandford Fleming College, has been awarded the 2018 Indigenous Post-Secondary Student Bursary. Eliza has worked on archaeological field projects as a liaison for Curve Lake First Nation and has also worked at Petroglyphs Provincial Park. She intends to continue pursuing archaeology, Indigenous studies and natural resource management.

With strong recommendations from an instructor and an archaeological mentor, it is clear that Eliza is preparing herself for a bright future with her Nation's resource management. Congratulations and best wishes, Eliza, from your fellow APA members!

APA's Post-Secondary Student Bursary 2017-18 Recipient: Daniel LaPierre

APA member Daniel LaPierre, who currently attends Trent University, has been awarded APA's 2018 Post-Secondary Student Bursary. Daniel has worked on archaeological field projects and has assisted with lab work as well. He intends to pursue archaeology as a career, with the next step being a Master's degree.

Daniel's academic and employer references provided clear support for his work and career path. Congratulations on your achievements so far, Daniel, from your fellow APA members!

APA's new program for Student Bursaries will continue for the 2018-19 academic year. Read more: Student Bursary Awards

MTCS Culture Division staffing news

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 16:11:06 GMT

Peter Armstrong has retired and Sean Fraser, formerly of the Ontario Heritage Trust, is the new Director of Programs and Services Branch, Culture Division at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

For the Programs and Services Branch directory, visit:

http://www.infogo.gov.on.ca/infogo/home.html#orgProfile/4360/en

Candidates' Bios for APA's 2018 Election

Mon, 05 Feb 2018 19:12:31 GMT

Voting for the 2018 Election is open Feb5-Apr6. Following the 60-day voting period, the successful slate of candidates will be announced and the transition of the Board will take place at the AGM on April 7th.

Eligible voting members have the election details sent to their emails. If you are a Professional, Field Director, or First Nations Consultation Staff member of APA Ontario and have not received an email with the link to the ballots, please send a note to members@apaontario.ca

BOARD OF DIRECTORS candidates:

Ben Mortimer: Prior to joining Paterson Group in 2012 and founding the Archaeological Division, Ben held various positions with the National Parks and Native Sites Program of Parks Canada’s Terrestrial Archaeology – Cultural Resource Management Division. In his 13 years at Parks, Ben advanced from a material culture lab assistant to archaeological assistant, archaeologist and lastly project archaeologist. Ben undertook a wide variety of archaeological projects on sites across the province of Ontario, including material culture analyses, field excavation, monitoring, impact assessments, and related planning on a breadth of sites from the early occupations of Ontario through to late 19th and early 20th century homesteads. Ben received his Honours Bachelors of Arts in Historic and Industrial Archaeology from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2000. While at Laurier, Ben undertook twelve weeks of field school training, a position as teaching assistant on a field school, volunteering, and various CRM jobs, adding practical experience to his academic knowledge. In 2012, Ben completed his Masters of Arts in Anthropology at Trent University, involving a detailed material culture analysis of Woodland period ceramics from Georgian Bay Islands National Park and a critique of Ontario’s culture history models. Ben’s leadership on recent Paterson projects at Fort Henry, ability to manage large scale projects such as West Block monitoring and the Barrack Hill Cemetery, and his extensive archaeological experiences across various themes and times demonstrate his ability to lead and manage a diversity of archaeological projects in all regions and historic periods of Ontario.

Cathy Crinnion: Cathy has served as an Executive member of APA Ontario since 2009, as Grants Director, Membership Director, Treasurer and Secretary. Formerly the senior archaeologist with Archaeological Resource Management Services of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Cathy has enjoyed a wide range of heritage-related activities, including archaeological investigations, strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities, built heritage and Historic period archival research, the review of cultural heritage components of environmental assessments, interaction with local community members and heritage advocates, and, close to her heart, teaching local and international students about Ontario’s past peoples and archaeological practice in a field school setting. Cathy has stepped back from full-time employment while her children are young, but has the time and the desire to continue on APA's Board of Directors for another term.

Dave Norris: Hello fellow APA members. For those of you that don’t know, my name is David Norris and I run a consulting company out of northern Ontario. For the past two years I have represented members from the northern portion of our province on the board of directors and am asking you to allow me to continue to do so. I am an active participant in board meetings and certainly enjoy the atmosphere. I strongly believe that the northern portion of this province needs to be represented and issues and concerns relating to archaeology in the north need to be brought forth to the Ministry. Conditions between the north and south can be and are different and as such regulations and standards need to reflect this difference. It isn’t an issue of one being better than the other, but a reflection in several variables that need to be considered when doing archaeology in the two areas. This not only relates to how archaeology is done, but First Nations community involvement and engagement is conducted on a different level and the government needs to be informed of this. I would like the opportunity to continue to represent the north and continue to help archaeology on a whole within the province continue to evolve so that we can all benefit from standards and guidelines that accurately reflect the type of work we all do. Thank you, David Norris, Woodland Heritage.

Jeff Dillane: I have worked as an archaeologist since 2003 in Ontario and have experience in both CRM and research focused archaeological projects. I have worked as a field technician for the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (2003-2008) and as a field director at both Trent University (2009-2011) and Northeastern Archaeological Associates (2013-2017). Currently I am an archaeologist for Parks Canada’s Terrestrial Archaeology Unit. I hold a BA and MA in anthropology from Trent University and am working on a PhD in Anthropology at McMaster University. My current research focuses on the long-term history of the Trent Valley in Southern Ontario and how interactions with the landscape changed between the Middle Archaic and the end of the pre-contact period. In addition to my research, I have been involved with APA training programs for First Nations monitors in the Trent Drainage since 2011. From 2014-2017 I have taught courses at Trent University and McMaster University including Settlement and Landscape Archaeology, The Archaeology of the Americas, and Heritage, Economy and Ethics.

I have served on the APA board of directors since October 2016 as director of investigations and newsletter editor. If re-elected I will strive to bring more programs and services to our membership and to help to foster the communication of ideas and concerns of the membership to the board. I am also committed to reaching out to our student members in order to bring attention to their concerns and help provide important opportunities for employment and professional development that will help them as they begin their careers.

Keith Powers: I have been a professional archaeologist since 1995, received a Masters degree in Britain in 1998. The degree focused on field archaeology and its methodology. My dissertation focused on the location of Iroquoian features within village sites. I began using geophysics both here and abroad to locate buried archaeological features. My main focus was driven by specific needs of clients which seem to focus on locating early pioneer graves within the landscape. I began my company in 2003 and have worked on the range of archaeological deposits within Ontario. Having served previously as both Director of Investigations and VP on the APA Board of Directors as well as an interim appointment as Membership Director during this past term, I am ready to stand for another term on the Board.

Laura McRae: Laura McRae has been working as an archaeologist in Ontario, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Central America since 2001. She has assisted with teaching archaeological field schools since 2004 and has published a book regarding archaeological pedagogy, based on her Masters thesis (Trent University). Co-founder, Director and Chief Archaeologist with The Central Archaeology Group Inc., Laura has worked on a number of First Nations, Fur Trade, British Military, Domestic, Industrial and Historical archaeological sites. She is a member of the Manitoba Métis Federation and has a particular interest in the transition period between pre-contact First Nations groups and the introduction of European trade and settlement. In addition to her archaeological activities, Laura is a farmer, raising commercial sheep and dairy goats in the Lower Trent Valley. Laura has been serving as an Executive member of the Ontario APA since 2017 as First Nations Relations Director and would like to continue to serve the archaeological community in this capacity and continue to strengthen relationships between our respective communities.

Lawrence (Laurie) Jackson, Ph.D. Southern Methodist U, Texas M.A. Trent U:

As a founding member of APA, I have an active vision for this organization, its future and its mandate to serve members of the profession. I have worked in archaeology since 1972, holding a provincial licence since 1975. My area of specialization is Early and Late Palaeo-Indian archaeology, with primary focus in southern Ontario but also publications on the topic based on research in New Mexico and Chile, South America. I have authored or co-edited three volumes on Palaeo-Indian archaeology and history and numerous articles on a variety of archaeological topics. My business experience has been in running Northeastern Archaeological Associates since 1989. I have a firm regard for the individual rights of archaeological professionals in Ontario. As an APA director, I have served several terms as President and Vice President but also as First Nations Liaison and Investigations Director. As an APA director, I was actively involved initiating a working relationship with Six Nations in a series of jointly chaired workshops, leading to training schools and also worked with other APA directors, such as Cathy Crinnion, with the Williams Treaty First Nations since 2010 in various archaeological partnerships, including liaison training. My first love is field work and research and it is heartening to see members of APA, and newly joined members, actively engaged in academic pursuits, as well as archaeology as a business. This is a confusing time for young archaeologists in Ontario, with more regulation than guidance and sometimes conflicting First Nations obligations. It is important for organizations like APA to provide a centering focus and to help train and also protect the careers of young archaeologists. It is heartening to see a growing co-ordination with First Nations who now make up 10% of APA's membership.

Standing up for the right thing is not always popular, but I hope that this organization will continue to do so with an active voice for decades to come. Although I defer to Ann Elk in matters of humour, I can certainly enjoy the occasionally comic aspects of what we and our colleagues at times do: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAYDiPizDIs

Nadine Kopp: Nadine received her Honours Bachelors of Arts from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2006 in Archaeology and Anthropology. While at WLU she participated in the Co-operative Education Program and was placed with the Military Sites Unit of Parks Canada where she excavated at many National Historic Sites including Fort Henry, Fort Wellington, and Fort George. Nadine volunteered with the Bermuda Maritime Museum periodically from 2005 to 2007 excavating and processing material culture from early British military sites in Bermuda such as the fortress Keep at the Royal Naval Dockyard and The Grange built in 1617, the residence of Daniel Tucker, Bermuda's second Governor. In 2006, Nadine attended East Carolina University for her Masters of Arts in Maritime History and Archaeology completing her thesis about the influence of the War of 1812 on ship construction on the Great Lakes, relating this to a wreck located in Navy Bay just off of the Royal Military College. After returning to Canada, Nadine worked for the Cataraqui Archaeological Research Foundation from 2008 to 2012, where she accumulated extensive experience excavating and processing material culture from British Military sites and 19th century homesteads. Since 2012, Nadine has worked for Paterson Group, excavating various sites in the Ottawa area including early 19^th century homesteads, the Barrack Hill Cemetery, Ottawa’s first cemetery, and the Officers’ Quarter midden from the Barrack Hill period (ca. 1827-1845) located on Parliament Hill.

FIELD DIRECTORS LIAISON candidates:

Norbert Stanchly: Norbert is the Principal Archaeologist at AS&G Archaeological Consulting, specializing in archaeological assessments and faunal analysis. He has a wide range of experience with managing assessments, conducting field assessments, artifact analyses, and in both the preparation and review of archaeological assessment reports. Norbert has more than 25 years experience in the field of archaeology and is keenly interested in the application of technical standards and guidelines for the discipline. Norbert has served on APA’s Board of Directors and committees in the past and is looking to continue to do so at this time.

Shane McCartney: Shane has been working in the archaeological sector for approximately 9 years now. He graduated with a B.A. in Anthropology from McMaster University in 2007, and is currently completing a M.A. in Applied Archaeology at Western University. Shane worked as a field technician for Archaeologix Inc. until 2009, when he was hired as a Licensed Field Director for Golder Associates Ltd. Shane spent 5 years at Golder, eventually directing the field operations for large renewable energy projects which involved the coordination of 120 field personnel and dealing with three separate Native communities in the Haldimand Region. Shane is now the Vice President for Earthworks Archaeological Services, where he continues to direct field operations and produce associated archaeological reports in addition to client and aboriginal engagement.

Radiocarbon Date Merit Award is open for submissions!

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 16:22:11 GMT

APA Ontario is pleased to announce the revival of this special contest for members. The prize is the cost of one sample dated at A.E. Lalonde AMS Facility, one of APA’s sponsors.

Read on for more details and submission deadline...

new Conference Travel Award for Field Director members

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 16:19:27 GMT

The Conference Travel Award for members in the Field Director category will assist with expenses to travel to a conference/symposium to present a paper or poster to the APA or other archaeological organizations within Canada or abroad.

Read on for details and the next application deadline...

new membership category launched for First Nations Consultation Staff

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 17:41:51 GMT

APA's Board of Directors has discussed ways to involve and integrate our peers who are working to improve cultural resource management from First Nations perspectives and thus passed a motion to create a new membership category for First Nations Consultation Staff, with another new category soon to come for First Nations Archaeological Liaisons.

MOTION to adopt the membership category of First Nations Consultation Staff; intended for full time First Nations employees working on archaeological materials, archaeological issues and/or liaison co-ordination for their Nation. Included in this category may be cultural archivists, administrators who work largely with archaeological projects or with training and co-ordinating First Nations archaeology liaisons. Membership documentation will consist of authentication of full time employment by an Ontario First Nation. The First Nations Consultation Staff member will be able to vote on any APA issues, and be eligible to serve on the Board of Directors.

** if you are a member who wishes to change your membership to this category, log on to the website and click on 'View Profile', then select 'Change' to start the process. Read up on the requirements for this membership category on the Membership Categories page.

** if you wish to join APA Ontario at this membership level, start with the Become a Member tab.

** note that members who belong to the First Nations Consultation Staff category are eligible to vote and run for office with APA's Board of Directors, and that nominations are open now until February 4th! **

Student Bursaries: deadline approaching

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 15:31:12 GMT

Applications for this year's two Student Bursaries will be accepted until 11:59pmEST on Wednesday January 31st.

Student members! Don't miss out! The application process is simple and the bursaries are worth $750 each.

Read on: Student Bursary Awards

Newsletter 2017:2 is out

Sun, 31 Dec 2017 04:26:31 GMT

Members, check your email inboxes for your copy!

More services than ever for APA members!

Mon, 25 Dec 2017 03:11:11 GMT

*New*

+ Duty to Consult, Engagement and Williams Treaty First Nation Treaties: report from the December 15th Workshop by Julie Kapyrka

+ Student Bursaries: deadline to apply is January 31st

+ Ask MTCS: add some questions to the list and all members will benefit

Duty to Consult, Engagement and Williams Treaty First Nation Treaties

Mon, 25 Dec 2017 03:08:47 GMT

APA and Curve Lake First Nation partnered to present APA members with valuable information about the engagement process and the archaeologists' responsibilities when conducting an archaeological assessment.

To read about the event and the details of the topics covered, log in and go to the 'First Nations Contacts and more' tab.

Available Position: Contract Work with APA Ontario

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 02:05:18 GMT

Position Title: Administrative Assistant(s)

Closing Date: December 22, 2017

Position Description: Contract position reporting primarily to the APA Secretary/Treasurer

Who May Apply: a student currently enrolled full-time or part-time in an archaeology-related university discipline or college program who is a member in good standing of APA, regardless of membership category.

For more information, log in and visit the APA Job Bank.

WORKSHOP UPDATE: 5 ADDITIONAL SPACES

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 02:19:37 GMT

The Duty to Consult, Engagement, and Williams Treaty First Nation Treaties workshop is fast approaching -- next Friday -- and spots have filled fast. 5 additional spots have been added to increase the capacity to 35 people! Don't miss out on this highly informative and timely session.

Head to the Events tab for additional details.

** New Member Incentive: become a member now and attend this workshop, then receive a refund equal to 50% off your 1-year membership fee! Tell your colleagues if you are already a member. Become A Member

Call for submissions: APA Newsletter 2017(2)

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 02:20:30 GMT

The APA invites contributions from any members interested in publishing short (500-750 word) articles or updates related to archaeological projects, methodology or issues currently facing the industry. Contributions from student members are particularly encouraged, and could relate to current or past research or field experiences.

APA Newsletter 2017(2) will be released later this month so it is requested that contributions be submitted no later than December 18th.
Submissions received after this date will be considered for the spring/summer issue.

Longer research papers should be directed to the APA Occasional Paper Editor, Scott Hamilton, at shamilto@lakeheadu.ca

Please direct submissions to Newsletter Editor Jeff Dillane at members@apaontario.ca

Graduate Research Seeking Input re: 19thC Cellar Features

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 01:40:50 GMT

Hello, I am conducting a brief questionnaire as part of my MA research at Western University, and would like to ask any professional archaeologists who work (or have worked) in Ontario’s Cultural Resource Management sector to answer a few questions about excavating 19th century domestic sites, specifically about cellar features.

This questionnaire only takes about two minutes, and has four questions, mostly multiple choice, with an option to leave additional comments if you wish to do so. Your collective answers will form aggregate data that will be used to help frame current mindsets and methodologies when assessing this important feature type. Your identity will be kept confidential.

Thank you to those that will participate. Please click on the Survey Monkey link below to be directed to the questionnaire.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2JNBBG7

Corbin Berger

Workshop opportunity: Duty to Consult, Engagement, and WTFN Treaties

Sun, 26 Nov 2017 02:41:31 GMT

The Association of Professional Archaeologists (Ontario) and Curve Lake First Nation will bring this timely workshop for members on the Duty to Consult, Engagement, and Williams Treaty First Nation Treaties.

Time: Friday December 15, 2017 11:00 - 3:00 p.m. Where: Curve Lake First Nation ~ Community Centre, 20 Whetung Street East

APA members only, space is limited, cost is $40.00 per person.

Elder Doug Williams will conduct the Opening and Closing.

Senwung Luk of Olthuis, Kleer, Townshend, LLP (Toronto office) will speak to archaeologists' responsibilities within the realm of the Duty to Consult and Approval Authorities (learn where you fit in!) and will take questions.

Dave Mowat, Scugog Island First Nation, will speak on Understanding WTFN Treaties.

For additional information and to learn how to register, click here to visit the Events page.

Recent Updates on the First Nations tabs

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 01:58:13 GMT

New resources are available, including the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2008) available for download in .pdf format, and links to the Supreme Court decisions for the Haida and the Taku cases re: Duty to Consult -- all on the public 'First Nations' tab.

For members, log in and head to Members Resources and 'First Nations Contacts' tab for recent additions to the contact information for Consultation Coordinators.

Deadline of Nov17th for "Guide to Cultural Heritage/Land Use Planning"

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 03:18:27 GMT

Deadline for comments fast approaching (November 17th) for "A Guide to Cultural Heritage Resources in the Land Use Planning Process"

It has been brought to our attention that the document

A Guide to Cultural Heritage Resources in the Land Use Planning Process

is open for public comment until November 17th and may have large impacts on archaeology and heritage policy. Any comments submitted to APA by members will be part of a general submission and not identified to individual.

For more details, to access the document, and for instructions about submitting comments directly to the Province follow the link below:
https://www.ebr.gov.on.ca/ERS-WEB-External/displaynoticecontent.do?noticeId=MTMyOTUz&statusId=MjAxOTYy&language=en

APA's Board of Directors will be reviewing the document and preparing a response, and we hope to add many members' voices. Please reply with your thoughts to Cathy Crinnion (APA Secretary/Treasurer) at info@apaontario.ca

The Archaeology of Patterson Village (Finlayson 2017)

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 03:10:17 GMT

Bill Finlayson, long-time APA member, has just published a 170 page popular book on the 2012-2014 total excavation of Patterson Village, a 19th century company town in Vaughan. It is available now in print and ebook format with iBook format soon. To order a copy of The Archaeology of Patterson Village go to www.icbookstore.ca/PattersonVillage

To read more, head to the Archaeology Research News tab.

Radiocarbon Lottery deadline extended!

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 01:49:43 GMT

Entries for the lottery are now being accepted until Friday October 20th, 2017 at 11:59pmEST. To enter for a chance at winning one complementary AMS analysis, visit the Radiocarbon Awards tab.

Newsletter 2017:1 now in circulation

Sun, 08 Oct 2017 00:24:16 GMT

Active members have been emailed their copy of APA's newest Newsletter -- check your spam folders if it is not in your inbox.

Featured in this Issue

Articles:

Dr. Julie Kapyrka "Remembering Relationships: Mississauga and Wendat"

Dr. James Conolly and Dr. Lawrence Jackson "Mound Building in Southern Ontario" (2017 CAA Session)

Upcoming Award Deadline:

Radiocarbon Date Lottery Draw: entries due by October 15, 2017 (one AMS date to be randomly awarded from the entries received)

~~~~~~~

Members in need of renewal: log in and visit your Profile page to renew and receive your copy of the Newsletter as well as many other benefits of membership. Note that only active members are eligible for the AMS C14 Lottery -- entry deadline is only 1 week away!

DigConnect is up and running!

Thu, 28 Sep 2017 02:11:10 GMT

DigConnect, APA's Job Bank notification system, is up and running with posted job ads. Log in and visit the APA Job Bank tab, or subscribe to receive direct emails by visiting your "My Profile" page.

APA Occasional Paper No.2 is Available for Download!

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 01:55:18 GMT

Head to the APA Publications and Reports tab to view and download the newest online publication in this series: UAV (drone) aerial photography and photogrammetry and its utility for archaeological site documentation by Scott Hamilton and Jason Stephenson.

Communiqué to Members (Sept 2017)

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 00:43:36 GMT

~ Dig Connect – what is this ?!?? ~

A new service to members, Dig Connect will circulate job postings via direct email to those members who wish to receive them. This is not just strictly for fieldwork positions, but for any paid or volunteer opportunities that are related to what we do as heritage professionals… we just wanted a catchy name that wasn’t already being used by other employment banks in Ontario ;)

Are you a member who would like to receive job postings right to your Inbox?

1. Log on to apaontario.ca with your username and password.

2. Click on the ‘View Profile’ link in the lower left corner of the page.

3. Click on the ‘Edit Profile’ button near the top.

4. Scroll to the Additional Information section of your profile.

5. Select the Yes option beside “Dig Connect”.

6. Save your changes by clicking the ‘Save’ button at the bottom.

Note that your public Profile page will not display your interest in Dig Connect in any way (in case you wish to keep your interest in other job opportunities to yourself).

Please contact the specific employers rather than replying to APA about any job postings that you have questions about or are interested in.

Are you an employer who needs new staff or volunteers?

1. Email your job posting to info@apaontario.ca and be sure to include the date when the posting will close, your preferred means to be contacted, and all other pertinent info that a prospective employee or volunteer might need to know.

2. APA will then circulate your job posting to all APA members who wish to see it!

In addition, active job postings will be available on the website in the Members’ Only section on the APA Job Bank tab so that they can be easily found should an email become accidentally deleted.

Enjoy making new job connections with other APA members!

~ APA’s Radiocarbon Date Lottery has returned!! ~

Those of you who have been perusing the newly updated Newsletter archives on the website may have seen talk of the lottery and its lucky recipients in the past. The Executive has been working to revive this assistance to its members, and the added benefit for all will be the sharing of the dating results and the significance of those dates to the sites from which the samples are recovered.

Members now have the opportunity to submit entries for the randomly-selected lottery that will take place once per year, but also there will be a second stream of funding which will also cover the dating of a sample in the Radiocarbon Date Merit Award program. Details for this second program will soon be posted. In the meantime, try your luck in the lottery!

To submit your entry for the 2017 Radiocarbon Date Lottery, simply provide us with the following information in an email to info@apaontario.ca by October 15, 2017:

· Your information (name, contact, etc.)

· PIF number for the project where the sample was collected

· Site type, if applicable

· The context from which the sample was recovered, and

· The type of the material to be dated

If you wish, you can also provide a brief note indicating:

· How this date will contribute to the archaeological record in Ontario

· How this award will contribute to your work as a professional archaeologist

A random draw will be made, and the lucky winner gets the opportunity to make a lasting contribution over and above the excellent work they are already doing.

As with everything in life, the award comes with strings attached. In this case, the strings are simply this: the winner, upon receipt of the date on the material, must provide a brief note about the site, the sample and results, with a comment on how the date relates to expectations and/or contributes to the archaeological record.

~ Student Bursary program for 2017-18!! ~

Student members, sharpen your pencils because instructions will be announced soon for the first ever round of bursary applications! Your academic studies and skills are as valuable as your field training, and the Association wants to show its support of your efforts in your studies of archaeology, culture history, cultural resource management, and such related fields that will prepare you for work in identifying and protecting Ontario’s resources.

Submissions will be due by January 31, 2018 and will be granted during this academic year. Stay tuned for details to be circulated to the membership and posted on APA’s website.

~ Apaontario.ca Updates ~

Recent updates to the public tabs on the website include:

- Newsletter Archives: many hard copies have been scanned and include back issues from 1990 – 2001 – these contain interesting content, much of which is still relevant! More recent issues that were originally created in digital format are of course there as well.

- Publications and Reports: 2 reports have been added to the one item that was formerly in the Publications tab as an Occasional Paper; both are reports of the APA’s Investigation Committee: one being the 2011 report on the site visit to Skandatut, and the other is the 2016 Burial Recommendations section from the Allandale Investigation.

Recent updates to the members’ only section include:

- the APA Job Bank’s “Dig Connect”, in time for this busy fall season! Read all about it at the top of this Communiqué and get involved!

- Member Resources: First Nations Contacts: a copy of the “Archaeological Protocol: Curve Lake First Nation” (adopted by Chief and Council in Sept of 2016) is available for download. Also, Consultation Staff contacts for all of the Williams Treaty First Nations were provided and are current in this tab as of May of 2017.

- in the Members Lounge: meeting minutes continue to be posted periodically as they are approved, to give you a peek behind the scenes into APA Executive meetings and APA-MTCS meetings.

~ upcoming Newsletter ~

The Summer 2017 newsletter is full and is being formatted for circulation as we speak. It contains a great variety of topics:

James Conolly on the CAA Middle Woodland session
Julie Kapykra on Remembering Relationships, a look at oral tradition of Wendat and Mississauga relationships
Membership graph update showing 130 members and major increases the past three years
and more!

~ APA’s Board of Directors ~

As reported in June’s Communiqué, 3-month interim appointments to the Board were accepted by members Laura McRae and Norbert Stanchly. During the busy summer months, Laura and Norbert have attended Executive meetings and have provided valuable input relating to APA business and correspondence as well as new memberships and renewals.

Laura has agreed to remain on the Board until the next AGM at which point an election will be held. Due to time constraints, Norbert has not offered to extend his executive membership at this time, but has plans to participate with committee work once his day-to-day workload eases up. Thank-you to Norbert for all of your assistance.

~ Reminders ~

· Become Involved: There are many other ways for members to take an active role in achieving the aims of the Association, such as special duties and committee participation. The Board is very excited that Scott Hamilton is taking on the role of Editor to resume APA’s Occassional Publications series. Also, new Professional member Julie Kapyrka is taking on the role of Chair for the Training and Workshops Committee to help keep those valuable learning opportunities coming regularly for the members. Additional members are invited and welcomed to join Julie on this committee.

· Member Services: If there are any services you believe that APA should be offering to its members, don’t hesitate to communicate these to the Board and offer your assistance so that we can all benefit! APA can only achieve as much as its member volunteers can manage.

· Members Forum: Log in to apaontario.ca and visit the Members Forum in the Members Lounge; click on ‘Subscribe’ at the top to receive email notices that a new discussion topic has been initiated.

· Membership Fee Discounts: Discounts of 20% on membership fees are available to Professional, Field Director and Associate members when you join or renew for a 3-year period, or just by alerting us to the fact that you have a co-worker who is also a current member – just send a quick email to members@apaontario.ca to take advantage of this offer, and then go treat yourself (to a new trowel??) with the money you have saved.

new in the Members-Only section

Sat, 09 Sep 2017 18:28:52 GMT

*new* APA job bank: "Dig Connect" -- providing members with convenient, organized and current job postings! Employers: send your job postings to info@apaontario.ca

*new* "Archaeological Protocol: Curve Lake First Nation" -- log in and visit Members Resources to access current information on the First Nations tab and download resources such as CLFN's archaeological protocol document

more on Newsletter back-issues and other website updates

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 02:17:41 GMT

Two additional Newsletter back-issues have been scanned and uploaded to the 'Newsletter Archives' tab, which date to 1998 and 2000. The latter is entitled, "Archaeology 2020: Visiting the Future." Unbelievable to think that this far-away future milestone is now on the horizon. These back-issues certainly provide an interesting read about where the profession was then versus where it is now.

Besides the ever-increasing library of archived Newsletters, the 'APA Constitution & ByLaws' tab is starting fresh -- the original Constitution and ByLaws dating to 1989 are there for members' perusal, along with a note that the Constitution and ByLaws Review Committee is working its way through these founding documents and will bring forward recommendations for amendments that will align these in a clearer way with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act.

Newsletter Back-Issues of Interest

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 01:41:46 GMT

We are gradually expanding our collection of APA newsletters here in the Newsletter Archives. The latest issues to join the collection are from 1998 and 2002 -- outdated, perhaps? Not in the least! Topics covered include competitive pricing of consulting projects, ethics, licencing, collections management, and a special interview with Paul Lennox! Visit the *Newsletter Archives* tab and enjoy.

Minutes Available For Your Reading Pleasure

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 02:29:32 GMT

Minutes from the latest meeting between APA and MTCS Culture Staff are now available in the Members Lounge tab, as are the minutes from the recent APA Board meetings.

APA - MTCS Meeting Minutes from Sept14/16

Mon, 09 Jan 2017 18:47:01 GMT

Notes from the most recent meeting between MTCS staff and APA Directors are now published for members in the Members Lounge under 'Meeting Minutes'.

Update on correspondence with MTCS

Sat, 30 Apr 2016 00:11:53 GMT

See below letters sent to MTCS. We are still trying to set up our first meeting with the ministry and are waiting on a response from Blair. The second letter did garner some response from Peter Armstrong, however not specific enough and we will pursue this issue of concern further.

9Mar2016 MTCS-APA TOR.pdf

21Mar2016 OHA licence renewal fact sheet.pdf

New Cemetery Registrar

Mon, 01 Feb 2016 12:04:40 GMT

Please be advised that Michael D'Mello retired from the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services (MGCS) effective January 15, 2016 and has accepted a position with the Bereavement Authority Ontario (BAO) as Manager of Licensing, Education and Outreach. The BAO is now responsible for cemetery and crematoria licensing and enforcement in Ontario.

However, MGCS has retained responsibility for burial sites, war graves, abandoned cemeteries and cemetery closures, and Nancy Watkins has been appointed as Registrar with responsibility for these matters.

Nancy Watkins

Senior Policy Advisor and Analyst

Registrar of Burial Sites, War Graves, Abandoned Cemeteries and Cemetery Closures

416 212 7499

nancy.watkins@ontario.ca

New APA Executive.

Thu, 12 Nov 2015 14:25:29 GMT

Dear APA Members,

As a result of the vote held on Sunday, October 18, 2015 at the APA Annual General Meeting, the following directors were elected:

Andrew Hinshelwood
Carla Parslow
Bill Fox
Cathy Crinnion
Margie Kenedy
Dave Norris
Laurie Jackson
Shane McCartney

As many of you will note, this marks a significant change from the previous board. The new directors have begun to work on your behalf, but the transition may take some time to fully implement. We ask for your patience and cooperation during the transition.

Communication among the directors elected identified a potential list of Executive positions. This list was circulated among all elected directors. None of the positions were contested, and the directors agreed that the positions would be confirmed by a vote held electronically (through email).

The new executive for the APA is:

President – Margie Kenedy
Vice-President – Andrew Hinshelwood
Secretary/Treasurer – Cathy Crinnion
First Nations – Bill Fox
Newsletter/Investigations – Laurie Jackson
Northern Director – Dave Norris
Membership – Carla Parslow
Field Directors – Shane McCartney
Past President – Sue Bazely

The first meeting of the executive was convened October 31, 2015, and was conducted electronically. Minutes of the meeting will be available soon. The meeting was a start-up meeting at which the executive addressed the list of immediate concerns facing the organization, and to discuss pressing house-keeping matters.

The APA exists to represent member interests collectively, and to offer appropriate support to individual members as the need arises. We are aware of the issues that escalated over the past year and we will strive over the coming year to ensure that members' interests remain our primary focus. It is our firm intention to ensure that the organization is run in an open and collaborative manner.

Please feel free to contact any member of the Executive with any questions or concerns you may have that relate to the mandate of the APA, or post your thoughts on the members’ board section of the APA website. Our next meeting will be held on December 8, 2015.

We look forward to working together to our mutual benefit as professional archaeologists, and for the benefit of the archaeological heritage of Ontario.

Regards,

Margie Kenedy, President APA

Andrew Hinshelwood, Vice-President APA

New APA Board of Directors

Mon, 26 Oct 2015 17:08:50 GMT

At the APA Annual General Meeting held Sunday October 18th, 2015 the membership elected a new Board of Directors to continue the work of the APA. The following constitute the new APA Board of Directors.

Andrew Hinshelwood
Carla Parslow
Bill Fox
Cathy Crinnion
Margie Kenedy
Dave Norris
Laurie Jackson
Shane McCartney

Congratulations to those elected and thanks to all who put their names forward.

MTCS MEMO - Feb., 2015 - Archaeological Site Inspections under Section 51, Ontario Heritage Act (R.S.O. 1990)

Mon, 23 Feb 2015 21:09:24 GMT

Memo_Inspections.PDF - Memo Published Feb. 2015 regarding the intention to inspect archaeological sites and facilities under section 51, Ontario heritage Act (R.S.O. 1990)

Inspections_Fact Sheet.pdf - Appendix to the MTCS Memo regarding procedures for archaeological inspection.

Inspection under the Ontario Heritage Act.pdf - Section 51 of the Ontario Heritage Act, FYI

Ontario Association of Professional Archaeologists Latest News

Newsletter 2025.2 (Fall 2025)

Newsletter 2025:1 (Spring)

'Ask An Expert' with Ian Hember -- resources available from the Burials Unit

APA Ontario's AGM followed by Ask An Expert on June 14th

Newsletter 2024:2 (Fall), plus short survey on Archaeology Review process

Newsletter 2024:1 (Spring) has been circulated to members :)

Newsletter 2023:2 (Fall) available to members

Newsletter 2023:1 (new series) has been circulated to members

updated article from Newsletter 2022:2 (new series) is available

Newsletter 2022:2 (new series) has been circulated to members

Introducing the 2022-2024 Board of Directors!

APA's 2022 Annual General Meeting ~ rsvp on the event page

Nomination period is now closed for the 2022-24 Board of Directors

Notice of Election and Call for Nominations

Prov. News Release: Ontario Expanding Fourth-Dose Eligibility

Ontario Expanding Fourth-Dose Eligibility

'Ask An Expert' returns for 2022 with a virtual tour in Sustainable Archaeology McMaster!

~ New title available in APA's Online Store ~

Launch of APA's Occasional Papers No. 4: The Introduction and Diffusion of Cultivated Plants in Southern Ontario by R. Fecteau

'Ask An Expert' edition #5: Archaeobotany in Ontario from Precontact to Euro-Canadian

deadline approaching: Indigenous Post-Secondary Student Bursary

Gov't News: Ontario Supporting the Identification and Commemoration of Indian Residential School Burial Sites

APA Ontario's 2021 AGM: RSVP to get your meeting link

next two 'Ask An Expert' sessions are on deck!

Stay-at-Home order: Questions answered

APA's "Ask An Expert" online series launched: check Events for upcoming sessions

New Titles Available through APA's Online Store

Upcoming Member Awards deadlines

Ratification of new C14 calibration curves

updates in Covid-19 info tab relating to Ontario's second shutdown

Province-wide Shutdown on Dec 26th and other Covid-19 news

Prov. News Release on a specific "essential worker"

Ontario Declares Santa Claus an Essential Service

CONTACTS

Prov. News Release: working group on Conservation Authorities

Ontario Announces Working Group to Better Focus Conservation Authorities

Input will lead to improved conservation and protection of the province’s water, land and natural resources

QUICK FACTS

now in APA's Online Store: 'The Draper Site'

changes in the province on Nov 23rd

Treaty Implementation (an excerpt)

Treaty Implementation: The Crown’s Ongoing Failure

Why are Treaty rights important? ...

more of Ontario now in Modified Stage 2

Stage 3 of Reopening in some areas on July 17th

Masks becoming mandatory

APA's Virtual 2020 AGM and Paper Presentation

Newsletter 2020:1 (Spring)

Health & Safety members' forum: "Eyes on the Ground"

Advisory to APA Members (legal opinion included)

Covid-19 Health and Safety Protocol examples

Ontario Further Eases Restrictions

APA's Coronavirus library of resources

Advisory to APA Members re: Task Force and re: CEWS

Communique re: Covid-19 Financial Impacts

Message from Ministry of Culture (MHSTCI) re: COVID-19

APA's Occasional Papers Series *now available to non-members*

Postponement due to Coronavirus distancing

Plants and Archaeology workshops: last few spots open to APA guests

Notice of Election / Call for Nominations

Newsletter 2019:2 in circulation

Now Available! Archaeobotany Workshops for APA members

statement to the Province re: Provincial Policy Statement changes

First Nations membership categories in APA

letter from APA to Greg Rickford on January 20, 2019 regarding Bill 66

APA's Winter Newsletter is now published

a note about MTCS fact sheets

Workshop Notice: Michi Saagiig Oral History and Cultural Awareness

Recent Member Awards awarded!

Radiocarbon Date Award deadline is December 15th

LinkedIn

New Award Dates

Newsletter 2018:1 now in circulation for members

Need information about existing Land Use Planning Tools for your project?

Looking for First Nations Band contacts for your projects?

APA on Twitter

letters from APA Executive to MTCS re: circulation of PIF information

Imminent expansion to MTCS release of PIF information

Dear APA Member,

APA's Occasional Papers Series now available to non-members

If you have any concerns please let us know right awaysend an email by July 1st to members@apaontario.cafor a consolidated reply from APA members ~ as for some unexplained reason MTCS decided on a one-week deadline for comments.

new Conference Travel Award for Field Director members

new membership category launched for First Nations Consultation Staff