Stallings Island, located in the Savannah River near Augusta, Georgia, is an important archaeological site dating back nearly 5,000 years. It was a major center for the Stallings culture, known for creating the earliest pottery in North America using fiber-tempering techniques. The island's early inhabitants established semi-permanent settlements and heavily relied on freshwater shellfish, as shown by large shell middens. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1961, Stallings Island has provided crucial insights into early human life in the Southeastern United States.

In the late 20th century, Stallings Island faced significant threats from looting and overgrowth, which obscured archaeological features and provided cover for unauthorized excavations. To combat this, the Archaeological Conservancy acquired the island in 1997 and implemented a unique ecological management strategy. In 2008, goats were introduced to control the dense vegetation. However, the presence of coyotes posed a threat to the goats, leading to the introduction of donkeys as protective companions. Donkeys are known for their natural guarding instincts and effectively deterred predators, ensuring the safety of the goat population.

Today, the donkeys have become emblematic of Stallings Island, attracting kayakers and nature enthusiasts who often spot them along the shoreline. While the island itself remains off-limits to protect its archaeological integrity, visitors can observe the donkeys from the water. These animals not only play a crucial role in preserving the site's ecology but also serve as living symbols of the island's ongoing conservation efforts. Their presence underscores the innovative measures taken to safeguard this invaluable cultural and historical resource for future generations.

​Stallings Island is overseen by The Archaeological Conservancy, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to acquiring and preserving significant archaeological sites across the United States. The island was donated to the Conservancy in 1997 by Wyck and Shell Knox of Augusta, Georgia, enabling its long-term care and protection .​

The Archaeological Conservancy's Southeast Regional Director, Jessica Fleming Crawford, manages the preservation efforts for Stallings Island. Based in Batesville, Mississippi, she oversees the Conservancy’s properties in eight Southeastern states, including Georgia.

The Conservancy implements various measures to protect the island's archaeological integrity, such as installing surveillance cameras, posting No Trespassing signs, and introducing goats and donkeys to control vegetation overgrowth .

Source: The Archdiocese Conservation Society