Beyond the 50-Year Rule
Beyond the 50-Year Rule
Podcast Description
Beyond the 50-Year Rule was created by the Utah Cultural Site Stewardship (UCSS) Program. UCSS is a volunteer program that enlists the public to assist land managers by safeguarding cultural resources through site monitoring, special projects and educational events. UCSS has over 400 active volunteers, making the program the largest in the nation. UCSS also spearheads public engagement and education surround cultural resources.
Beyond the 50-Year rule is a look into the UCSS Program, to learn from our partners, connect more to the intangible history here in Utah and to experience the positive impacts the world of cultural resources is experiencing thanks to the united front of public and professionals that work together to protect Utah’s heritage.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on cultural heritage preservation, community engagement, and educational initiatives with episodes discussing topics like the importance of cultural resource stewardship and interviews with key figures involved in the UCSS Program, highlighting local projects and volunteer experiences.

Welcome to the Utah Archaeology Podcast, brought to you by the Utah State Historic Preservation Office. Join us every month as we explore the rich history and prehistory of this fascinating western state. From ancient cultures and unexpected artifact finds to forgotten stories and modern preservation science, we dig into everything archaeology across the Beehive State.
New episodes drop monthly. Hit subscribe and unearth Utah’s past with us!
What happens when wildland fuel management meets 19th-century history in the middle of a sagebrush field? In this episode, new hosts Emma and Chris sit down with US Wildland Fire Service archaeologists Emily Swett and Roy Plank to discuss an extraordinary find just off I-15 near Parowan, Utah. While conducting routine site assessments to protect habitat and manage wildfire risks, field crews stumbled across a unmarked, weathered red sandstone headstone, hidden in plain sight for over 170 years.
Join the team as they piece together historical journals, rule out local legends, and uncover the tragic story of Oliver Fuller, a cartographer on John C. Fremont’s ill-fated fifth expedition in the winter of 1854. Discover how modern land management agencies collaborate to protect fragile cultural resources, how ground-penetrating radar is helping safeguard the site today, and how you can practice respectful visitation when exploring public lands.

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