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During construction of a private road in the Wenas Valley, north of Selah, in Central Washington State in 2005, the left front leg (Humerus) bone of a mammoth was uncovered. Finds of isolated mammoth elements are common on the Columbia Plateau, however, numerous remains are from the Missoula Flood deposits. The Wenas Creek find appeared somewhat unusual because it was well preserved and the elevation is well above these the Missoula Flood deposits. Owing to its unusual topographic setting and the potential for finding additional material at the site, Central Washington University initiated an ongoing investigation with annual summer field schools starting summer 2005
Our MissionThe landowners, Doug, and Bronwyn Mayo of Haywire Outfit Inc., and Nancy Mayo have been instrumental in their unwavering support of the educational value of this discovery, initiating the partnership with Central Washington University to conduct on-site educational research.
The Wenas Creek Mammoth Project Profile From 2005-2010 the Wenas Creek Mammoth Project was a Central Washington University (CWU) scientific investigation of mammoth bones found on private land in the Wenas Creek Valley near Selah, Washington. The investigation was interdisciplinary, using methods from paleontology, archaeology, and geography. The goal of the project was careful scientific recovery of bones and associated artifacts, while placing the finds into appropriate context of physical geography. The project included summer excavations offered as field schools, public site tours, presentations, and volunteer opportunities. Central Washington University has decided to discontinue the project for future students and expected advances in archaeological techniques. Now students will focus on the lengthy process of closely examining and cataloging over 5000 small and 200 larger (bigger than a fist) bones. They will also be sending selected samples of dirt to specialists to determine, for example, what plants grew here at that time. The Mayos are currently searching for other interested groups that wish to pursue and preserve the a unique piece of Central Washington's history through educational opportunities.
Contact InformationDoug and Bronwyn Mayo - Land Owners
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wenasmammoth@yahoo.com with
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