Studying a Soon-to-be-Inundated Ancient Shell Ring

Hello Gardeners, I’m Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making It Grow. At Botany Bay Heritage Preserve, scientists using LiDAR ,an aerial 3D laser scanning method, have discovered the oldest shell ring in our State, Pokoy 1, dating to 4300 years ago, the same period as the earliest Egyptian pyramids. This oyster shell structure was constructed and only used for a relatively short period of time – from 20 to one hundred years. By 2024, it will be lost to researchers due to sea level rise – so SCDNR archaeologists and other researchers are focusing resources to answer questions about this cultural relic before it disappears. If you want to learn more about the work at this and other heritage sites, visit South Carolina Heritage Trust, then select resources, next choose films. Some of these have links to lesson plans aligned with state standards that can be used by teachers; others are underway, anyone can enjoy the films.