ESCONDIDO – The San Diego Archaeological Center is offering a workshop for people who volunteer at local nature reserves, libraries or historical societies, or as leaders of scout troops or environmental groups, who don’t know what to do when someone shows up with an artifact in hand or how to answer the questions, "Did Native Americans live here?" or "Where can I find out more about the local native people?"

The Center developed the workshop called Artifact Interact: Appreciation of Cultural Resources, set for Saturday, August 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 16666 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027.

Program Coordinator Annemarie Cox will lead the workshop that will include guest speakers Board of Trustees President and archaeologist Richard Carrico and San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians Tribal Chairman Mel Vernon. A variety of presentations will include "So You Wanna be an Archaeologist" and "10,000 Years of San Diego Prehistory." A tour of the Center vaults will also be offered.

An optional trip to the Kumeyaay-Ipai Interpretive Center in Poway has been arranged. Participants will enjoy a docent-led tour of the site highlighting archaeological, cultural and natural resources. Participants should bring a sack lunch and water; wear sturdy shoes, sunscreen and appropriate headgear.

Artifact Interact provides an opportunity for docents at historic sites, park reserves, scout leaders and museum volunteers to ask questions and interact with artifacts dating back 10,000 years. Most importantly, they will be able to educate the public about protecting these important resources and gain an appreciation for cultural resources in San Diego County where there are over 17,000 recorded archaeological sites.

A $25 donation to the Center is requested for non-members; Center members pay $15 for the workshop. Discounts will be given to organizations that reserve three or more spots. Light refreshments will be provided. Reservations required; seating limited to 20. Contact Annemarie Cox, at (760) 291-0370 or acox@sandiegoarchaeology.org.