Projects funded by Chaco Culture Conservancy this year are moving forward. Starting August 20, visitors to Chaco will have access to Wi-Fi for the first time. This will allow visitors access to trail guides and brochures online, pay fees, keep in touch with family, and share their park experience. (See Chaco Culture Conservancy Board approves Funding Six Projects for 2021 for list of projects.)
CCC continued to provide the audio tour at Aztec Ruins. This service allows visitors to use their cellphones to guide them along the self-guided trail through Aztec West. The park was no longer able to provide written guides for sanitary purposes during the pandemic. The audio tour allowed visitors to continue to learn about and appreciate Aztec Ruins during this time. The use of the audio tour increased by 57% this year.
Visitor learns how to use QR codes for park guides 
Visitor using Wi-Fi for trail guide on cellphone
The Conservancy supported Aztec Ruin’s annual American Indian Cultural ArtsFest by providing hotel rooms for out-of-town artists and the Pueblo Enchantment Dancers.
The final analysis for the perishables and macrobotanicals for the 10-year-old Fill Level Adjustment Project at Aztec Ruins was completed through funding from the Conservancy. Dr. Laurie Webster analyzed 17 perishable samples: including Yucca cordage and knots, a fragment of a rush mat, and reed fragments possibly used as a cigarette.
Dr. Kathy Puseman analyzed macrobotanical samples, including corn cobs, seeds, and other plant material. Of significance was the finding of Amaranth seeds. Recent research at Aztec North suggests that Amaranth was being grown at Aztec. The discovery of Amaranth seeds at Aztec West supports the evidence of its domestication here.
All of this information will go into the permanent museum records and help in the interpretation of Aztec West.
Remains of twill-plaited rush mat with intricate selvage 
Square knot of Narrowleaf Yucca
Chaco staff has completed the environmental compliance for the building and installation of two shade shelters. The park is working in partnership with the Aztec High School Agriculture students.