The origins, types and properties of totem poles are briefly described. An explanation is given, in narrative form, of the process of decay at a typical island site, from the erection of a mortuary pole to its eventual disintegration, and a novel method is proposed for the restoration of poles in an advanced state of decay. This involves the use of an expanded polyurethane foam, polyfoam, as a filler and consolidant. The history and techniques of totem pole conservation at an inland site are described in an appendix.