We also collect more in the field than can be retained in the
     permanent collection.  We are in the process of writing a formal
     policy, to standardize collection/discard and to make the whole
     process more objective.
 
     We currently use functional classes to determine the sample to be
     retained.  We usually keep 100% sample of ceramics and personal items;
     only a small representative sample of construction materials,
     hardware, flat glass and container glass.  That small sample can
     include any item determined to be temporally or culturally diagnostic.
     Conservation and preservation issues (and costs) have an influence.
     We do not retain items which are not stable chemically and thus
     unsafe, i.e., some 19th century pharmacutical products.
 
     My program is also struggling with the issue of historical archaeology
     collections and museum storage space.  Thank you for opening this
     discussion again.
 
 
     Kelly Hamilton
     Museum Archaeology Program
     State Historical Society of Wisconsin
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