Description
PIT is a volunteer program inviting the public to share in the thrill of discovery through archaeological and historic research. The projects vary in length from a weekend to one month. There is no registration fee. PIT provides opportunities for individuals and families to work with professional archaeologists and historians.

The PIT Traveler, announcing the current season's opportunities, is published twice a year, in March and September. An official Passport is issued to each volunteer to document their participation in the PIT project.

There are approximately 2,000 volunteers involved with 120 projects annually. Nearly 6,000 volunteers have worked on 600 projects since the program began in 1989. This translates to over $3 million in donated labor. Other outcomes include advocacy, positive public relations, conservation education, community involvement, improved tribal relations, support from elected officials, and improved Forest Service morale.

How to Use This Tool
Heritage Resources: The majority of PIT projects involve prehistoric sites. However, historic sites and structures, historic artifacts, rock art, and cultural landscapes are also investigated.

How Visitors Interact With Resources: Projects include archaeological excavation, site mapping, photography, laboratory analysis, collecting oral histories, historic building restoration, library archival research, exhibit design, and archaeological site monitoring.
Visitor Experiences: Volunteers learn about scientific methods and theory, the history and prehistory of the area, and the Forest Service Heritage program while participating in projects. Facilities vary depending on the activity and location. Many projects involve back country camping where volunteers are responsible for their own food and equipment. Hiking, tours, lectures, and other recreational activities are commonly a part of the programs.

Limitations
Some projects have a minimum age limit and require a certain level of physical ability.

Contacts
To receive a PIT Traveler contact:
Passport in Time Clearinghouse
PO Box 31315
Tucson, AZ 85751-1315.
1-800/281-9176 or 520/722-2716
Email: pit@sricrm.com
Website: http:\\www.passportintime.com

For information on the PIT program contact:
Jill Osborn, National PIT Coordinator
208/373-4162, FAX 373-4111

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Education & Interpretation