Dolores Archaeological Program Technical Reports, DAP-062: Preliminary Report, Demonstration and Experimental Garden Studies 1979 and 1980

Remains of corn, beans and squash recovered from prehistoric sites excavated in the Dolores Project area indicate that the Anasazi were successfully farming the area. To help answer questions about prehistoric farming practices, experimental gardens were planted in the project area in 1979 and 1980. These gardens were closely monitored and various experiments with different crops were conducted. Resultant yields from the gardens indicate that despite problems of low rainfall, insects, and a short growing season, farming in this area can be quite productive.