Leaked memo: No remains, artifacts found at Dakota Access Pipeline site
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
North Dakota's chief archaeologist says in a memo leaked to a conservative blogger that an inspection found no American Indian artifacts or human remains at a Dakota Access pipeline construction site.
Paul Picha says in the memo published Monday by Say Anything blogger Rob Port that seven state archaeologists inspected the 1.3-mile section along the route of the $3.8 billion pipeline in southern North Dakota. The memo says only some animal teeth and bone fragments were found.
Officials say the memo is only a draft and is part of an on-going investigation.
Standing Rock Sioux officials said crews earlier this month bulldozed the site, which they say has "significant cultural and historic value." It led to a clash between protesters and security guards hired by pipeline company Energy Transfer Partners.
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.