Investigating the Oxbows and Testing Metal Detector Efficiency

Introduction
Preliminary indications are that climate variability is accelerating the natural process of a
meandering river evolution on the Little Bighorn River. Those changes are affecting at least one
oxbow that forms the southwest boundary of Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
(LIBI). The park river boundary is 3.2 miles long and contains 3 river meanders (oxbows)
(Figure 1), one of which is threatened to be cut off by the river, potentially affecting the ability of
the National Park Service to manage the area (Figure 2). The purpose of this project is to
determine if historic archeological metal artifacts are present on the oxbow, and determine if
their potential loss would be a significant impact to the park’s archeological resources. The
project is also intended to provide the information necessary for park mangers to determine
appropriate mitigation measures, should they be required.
Figure 1. The oxbow areas in relation to the Little Bighorn River.
The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument was set aside to preserve, protect, and
interpret the historic, cultural, and natural resources including lands and artifacts pertaining to
the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Although it is a managed system, the Little Bighorn River is still
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