Minnesota Agencies

The Office of the State Archaeologist (OSA) is charged with sponsoring, conducting and directing research into the prehistoric and historic archaeology of Minnesota; protecting and preserving archaeological sites and objects; disseminating archaeological information through the publication of reports and articles; identifying, authenticating and protecting human burial sites; reviewing and licensing archaeological fieldwork conducted within the state.

The state archaeologist is a professional archaeologist appointed by the board of the Minnesota Historical society for a four-year term. The Minnesota Department of Administration houses the Office of the State Archaeologist (OSA). Since 1963, Minnesota law has established a licensing process in which the State Archaeologist approves applications for licensure and the Minnesota Historical Society issues the licenses.