Rules for visitation to a State Archaeological Site

Rules for visitation to a State Archaelogical Site Vascular plants of the Estero Bay and Barrier Island Environs Suggested reading for Florida Prehistory and Calusa Indian Culture More information on Southwest Florida Archaeology and Calusa Indian Culture You are here:

As you explore our area's archaeological treasures, please leave the fragments of the past where you find them. Each seemingly insignificant potsherd or broken shell is like a piece of a giant jigsaw puzzle picture. Archaeologists, by studying these fragments in their original locations and contexts, can piece together a picture of past life. Removing even one small piece of the puzzle means that the picture will never be complete. All natural and cultural resources in Florida parks and state-owned archaeological sites are protected under Florida law. Do not pick up or move artifacts. Do not harm or remove plants, animals, or archaeological or historical remains. Even the act of "surface collecting" on state-owned lands is punishable by heavy fines and penalties. Burial mounds and human burials are protected under both federal and state law. Do not harm or remove human bones (on or under the surface) or artifacts associated with them. Report violations to the Town of Fort Myers Beach, or call the State Archaeologist at (850) 245-6444.