Jump with joy???
The finding of an prehistoric or even an historic site on your land can offer several choices. But remember this is the United States of America and in this country your property is just that "your property".
The selection of how you treat this discovery is one you must make using your personal interest and that of your future rights. If you have the knowledge to gage the importance of your find then your problem is half solved.
I personally would not know a gold mine from a pig pen, if I believed
there was the possibility I had made an important discovery I
would certainly approach those I felt best qualified to guide me.
In your case your local state college.
If you have no personal interest in purusing the research that
may be needed and are willing to allow others to undertake the task,
then all your problems are solved.
But most of us would like our day in the sun. So if you approach the professional field with your discovery, just keep reminding yourself, that it was you that made the discovery and it's on your land.
There is a big difference between the Professional Archaeologist and the amateur archaeologist. And these differences do not necessarily point to the professional being better qualified.
Many men, who have gained their fame, in this field are amateurs.
Remember the amateur is often as dedicated to the recovery of early
man's history, for the sake of restoring man's knowledge of his past.
It is recognized that many of the important site discoveries and
artifact classifications are made by amateurs. Their texts are
of no less value than that of a professional.
use care, this could be your pro.
Many if not most professionals are dedicated to making a living.
Few will have the hours of field work that some amateurs will gain,
in their research carrier. For the professional, a page in
National Geographic or a item in American Antiquity can spell
advancement in their career.
Before you allow others to begin work on a site you discovered, on your land or not, decide if you wish to receive a fair acknowledgement in future papers or displays.
