Archaeological Looting and Vandalism in the Pacific Northwest: a Quantitative Analysis of Causes and Prevention

Archaeological sites are non-renewable resources - each is unique and irreplaceable. The looting and vandalism of sites is a serious threat to cultural heritage in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon. Although archaeologists, Native Americans, and others have long recognized the problem, no previous study has attempted to quantify either the proportion of sites that have been affected or the cultural, geographic, and economic factors that might contribute to looting and vandalism. This study begins the process of defining the looting and vandalism problem in the Pacific Northwest. The factors that correlate with looting and vandalism activity include local median income, law enforcement presence, local crime rates, site density, and site accessibility. Local communities can fight looting and vandalism through a combination of law enforcement, educational methods and site monitoring. Participation of Native American organizations is essential. Not everyone wants to stem the tide of looting and vandalism in the Pacific Northwest. But for those who do, this study offers a road map.