Stone features are physical evidence of prehistoric cultural activity by First Nations people.  The majority are remnants of habitation, as rocks were used to hold down covers of teepees.  Others have more symbolic or ceremonial significance, and can include stone effigies in the shape of turtles, bisons and humans.  Groups of cairns and circles, some with radiating lines, have also been identified.  A great example is Majorville Medicine Wheel (pictured here), estimated to be over 4,500 years old.

Your development has a higher potential for the identification of intact archaeology if it occurs in native prairie and is in close proximity to major drainages.  All over the world, and throughout the ages, people have enjoyed being near the water, and if the land has not been disturbed, there may be some evidence of past cultural activity.

Archaeology (är-kē-ˈä-lə-jē) is the study of past human culture through the recovery and analysis of material remains. This can include architectural remains, such as stone circles, and artifacts.  For prehistoric Alberta, artifacts are mainly limited to stone tools and debitage (lithic artifacts), fire-broken rock, bones and pottery. In later periods, artifacts can include metal tools, finer ceramics, and beads.