Building Underwater Archaeology Capacity in Mississippi
GrantID: 11699
Grant Funding Amount Low: $22,500
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $24,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Rural and Urban Dynamics in Underwater Archaeology Expeditions in Mississippi
Mississippi's rich maritime history, particularly relating to the Mississippi River, presents unique opportunities for underwater archaeology expeditions. However, participation in such expeditions is often limited by geographical, economic, and logistical challenges. Rural communities, in particular, face barriers to engagement in underwater archaeology due to limited access to resources and educational programs. A report from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources highlights the disparity in participation between urban and rural populations, with urban residents in cities like Jackson having more access to educational resources.
Individuals engaging in local maritime heritage preservation often come from diverse backgrounds, including students, history enthusiasts, and local historians. However, the costs associated with participating in underwater archaeology expeditionssuch as training, equipment, and travelcan be prohibitively high for residents in rural areas. This imbalance limits the potential for developing local expertise and interest in Mississippi's underwater archaeological sites and thus restricts community involvement.
The grant initiative seeks to address these rural-urban disparities by funding underwater archaeology expeditions that encourage participation from both urban and rural populations. This funding will support logistics that facilitate training sessions, equipment loans, and mentorship programs for participants. By prioritizing outreach to rural communities, this initiative aims to foster greater inclusiveness in the engagement of Mississippi’s maritime heritage.
Through the encouragement of local involvement in underwater archaeology, the program seeks not only to preserve Mississippi's rich maritime history but also to build community expertise and appreciation for historical narratives surrounding the Mississippi River. Projects funded by this grant will enable participants to undertake hands-on training, investigate shipwrecks, and contribute to the greater understanding of the state’s underwater archaeological landscape.
Who Should Apply in Mississippi
Eligible applicants for this funding program include non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and community-based groups focused on maritime archaeology and historical preservation. Proposals should emphasize collaborative approaches that engage participants from both urban and rural communities, ensuring a balance of perspectives in the expeditions.
When preparing applications, prospective grantees must provide a comprehensive plan outlining the expedition’s objectives, participant recruitment strategies, and logistics for training and equipment provision. Applicants should also detail how they plan to foster community engagement, particularly with underrepresented groups, ensuring that all voices are included in the exploration of Mississippi’s underwater heritage.
Target Outcomes of Underwater Archaeology Expeditions in Mississippi
The anticipated outcomes of the grant-funded expeditions include increased public participation in underwater archaeology, enhanced awareness of Mississippi's maritime history, and the development of local expertise in maritime preservation techniques. These goals are particularly relevant in Mississippi, where the historical narrative of the Mississippi River is deeply intertwined with the lives and cultures of its residents.
These outcomes matter as they allow residents to reclaim and engage with their maritime heritage, further bridging historical gaps between urban and rural communities. By fostering enthusiasm and interest, the program aims to empower diverse populations to take ownership of their maritime past and promote stewardship of local archaeological sites. The initiative also hopes to encourage future research and exploration by creating a foundation of knowledge and enthusiasm among participants.
In summary, the Underwater Archaeology Expeditions program is designed to enhance engagement with Mississippi's maritime history while addressing the rural-urban divide in access to archaeological activities. By fostering inclusiveness and community involvement, this initiative presents a unique opportunity for Mississippi residents to connect with their aquatic heritage.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
