Environment and Conservation Appoints Michael C. Moore as New State Archaeologist

Nashville, Tenn. – Environment and Conservation Commissioner Jim Fyke has announced the appointment of Michael C. Moore as Tennessee’s new state archaeologist. Moore has served as acting state archaeologist since January when Nick Fielder, who previously held the position, assumed full-time duties as the department’s emergency management coordinator.

“This promotion is well deserved,” said Fyke. “Mike has served Tennessee’s Division of Archaeology for 21 years, most recently as assistant state archaeologist. We are pleased and fortunate to have someone with his expertise and experience step into this important role.”

As state archaeologist, Moore will serve as director of the department’s Division of Archaeology, which is responsible for surveying the state to identify and record archaeological sites; excavating prehistoric and historic sites and protecting and preserving such sites; conducting research and encouraging public cooperation for site preservation; publishing archaeological findings; and working with other state agencies for the protection and management of archaeological sites on state lands.

In his previous roles as assistant state archaeologist and state programs archaeologist, Moore’s duties included reviewing state agency land transactions and construction projects to assess potential impacts to archaeological resources, as well as conducting extensive surveys and test excavations to identify cultural resources.

Moore has also served as federal programs archaeologist for the Division of Archaeology, where he provided all archaeological services to the Tennessee Historical Commission, including review of federally funded projects and their effects on prehistoric and historic archaeological sites.

Moore has led and participated in numerous research projects and field studies, including the Middle Cumberland Mississippian Survey Project, a cooperative effort between the Tennessee Division of Archaeology and Middle Tennessee State University that explored Mississippian era sites in middle Tennessee. He also co-organizes the annual “Current Research in Tennessee” archaeology meeting and is the co-editorial coordinator for Tennessee Archaeology, a peer-reviewed electronic journal.

For more information contact:

Dana Coleman
Office (615) 253-1916