We analyze pollen and spores (reproductive cells from plants that are often well preserved in sediment due to their strong “skeleton” comprised of sporopollenin) to develop a record of past vegetation. Anaerobic environments such as lakes and bogs are often best for pollen preservation, but we also recover pollen from other environments such as rock shelters and some open-air sites. 

Many trees produce pollen that can be carried long distances over wind; the pollen of these plants reflect a regional signal of vegetation. Some small flowers indicate produce fewer pollen grains that are not wind distributed and can reflect a more local vegetation signature. Pollen records can also provide information about human land use changes, especially when collected in proximity to archaeological sites.

We analyze pollen collected from cultural contexts such as artifacts or dwellings to provide information about ancient diets, food preparation, and medicinal practices. Samples can be collected from floor or bench surfaces within dwellings, as well as washed from artifacts such as ceramics or groundstone.

We use the relative abundance and total assemblage of different pollen types to determine the geographic origin of an artifact. Pollen is often collected through washing, wiping, or vacuuming, and can also be sampled from larger contexts such as shipwrecks.

We process sediment, peat, and other samples and ship the completed pollen residues in vials for analysis.

*Baseline rates are subject to additional fees for rush analysis or samples from high biodiversity regions. Discounts apply for academic and large projects with >16 samples. Rates are valid through 12/31/2023