Let’s Chat.
DR RHY MCMILLAN
Geoarchaeologist/Partner, Coastal Office
PhD, Geological Sciences, University of British Columbia (Faculty of Science)
BA, Anthropology/Earth Science, Vancouver Island University (Faculty of Arts)
Rhy blends geochemistry and archaeology in his quest to create equitable partnerships with Indigenous communities and produce additional lines of archaeological evidence in collaboration with oral history and Indigenous science. As a multidisciplinary researcher, Rhy uses Western scientific techniques to investigate the sedimentary context of archaeological objects, their preservation states, their geochemical characteristics, and the degree to which they have been physically and chemically altered post-mortem and/or post-burial. He adapts and enhances traditional archaeological approaches by integrating sophisticated but appropriate geochemical and spectroscopic techniques, providing robust, reproducible, and detailed information that can be used to interpret the geologic source and movement of ancient humans and their belongings through space and time.
DR NICK WABER
Archaeologist/Partner, Interior Office
PhD, Anthropology, University of British Columbia (Faculty of Arts)
MA, Anthropology, University of Victoria (Faculty of Arts)
BA, Anthropology, University of British Columbia (Faculty of Arts)
Nick’s expertise lies at the intersection of landscapes and technologies, both ancient and modern, where the stories of the past come to life. With a background in anthropological archaeology and specializations in both lithic technology and GIS, Nick embraces leading-edge analytical methods as means to discovery, applying the latest tools and techniques to investigate the relationships between people, places, and belongings in the deep past. Whether flaking replica stone tools or piloting a LiDAR drone, a diverse skillset and insatiable curiosity provide Nick with the means to tackle complex archaeological questions, bridging the gap between the nuanced and intricate narratives of history and our contemporary understanding of the past. Beyond lab and field, Nick has a passion for community engagement, and seeks to share knowledge and skills in collaborative environments with Indigenous community members and researchers.
COLBY MCDONALD, BSc
Research Technician, Coastal Office
BSc, Geoscience, Vancouver Island University (Faculty of Science)
Colby’s work sits at the nexus of landscape processes, environmental monitoring, and geospatial technologies. With a Bachelor of Science in Geoscience, he applies both field-based and digital approaches to understand how Earth’s systems evolve and how communities can respond to those changes. Driven by a commitment to practical, community-centered science, Colby integrates traditional geological methods with innovative technological solutions to produce clear, actionable, and data-driven results.
Colby’s Email and Websites
Email: colby.mcdonald@geoarchaeo.ca
Why We Are Not P.Geos
GeoArchaeo Research is a scientific and research‑driven organization, not a professional geoscience firm. Our work is intentionally positioned within non‑reserved geoscience practice as defined under the Professional Governance Act and the Engineers and Geoscientists BC regulatory framework
We do not provide professional geoscience services, and we do not engage in any activity that requires a P.Geo license. This is a deliberate and principled choice based on the nature of our work and the communities we serve.
- Our work is scientific, descriptive, and observational rather than regulatory
We specialize in sedimentological, geochemical, and geomorphological analysis, descriptive mapping, laboratory characterization, GIS analysis, shoreline reconstruction, and trend‑based projections. These activities fall within non‑reserved practice because they do not involve risk‑bearing interpretation, professional judgment affecting public safety or property, regulatory advice, engineering or geotechnical evaluation, or permitting support. Our deliverables are scientific information, not professional geoscience opinions. - We support Indigenous governance rather than provincial permitting
Much of our work is conducted for Sovereign First Nations, including treaty land‑base negotiations, stewardship planning, cultural and environmental knowledge documentation, and community‑driven research. These contexts operate outside the provincial regulatory system. They require transparent science, clear data, reproducible methods, and culturally aligned reporting rather than professional geoscience certification. - We avoid the conflicts and constraints of regulated practice
P.Geo licensure carries statutory obligations, regulatory liability, reserved‑practice boundaries, and restrictions on the types of statements a professional can make. These constraints are not compatible with independent academic evidence, descriptive scientific reporting, sovereignty‑aligned knowledge production, or community‑driven research priorities. Our independence is part of our value. - We provide academic‑style expertise rather than professional certification
When our principals contribute to treaty mechanisms or governance processes, they do so as academic experts using peer‑reviewed methods and forensic data. They do not act as regulated professionals issuing certified opinions. This distinction protects the integrity of our work, the sovereignty of our clients, and the legal boundaries of the Professional Governance Act. - When a P.Geo is required, we say so
If a project requires hazard assessment, geotechnical evaluation, groundwater analysis, risk‑bearing interpretation, or regulatory decision support, we will always recommend that a licensed P.Geo be engaged. We do not cross that line.
In summary
We are not P.Geos because our work is scientific, descriptive, non‑reserved, and aligned with the needs of Indigenous governments and research communities. We provide high‑quality science, not regulated professional geoscience. This allows us to remain independent, affordable, academically rigorous, and fully compliant with the Professional Governance Act.