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Cultural Resource Management Collaborative Primer For Archaeologists: A Comprehensive Guide To The Field

Will Ward

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Cultural resource management (CRM) is a field of archaeology that deals with the identification, evaluation, and protection of cultural resources. Cultural resources are defined as any physical evidence of past human activity, including archaeological sites, historic buildings, and cultural landscapes. CRM archaeologists work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, and private landowners, to ensure that cultural resources are considered in land use planning and development projects.

Cultural Resource Management: A Collaborative Primer for Archaeologists

by Thomas F. King

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	272 pages

History of Cultural Resource Management

CRM has its roots in the early 20th century, when archaeologists began to document and preserve archaeological sites that were threatened by development. In the 1960s and 1970s, CRM became increasingly important as a result of the passage of federal legislation, such as the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA). These laws require federal agencies to consider the effects of their projects on cultural resources and to mitigate any adverse effects.

Methods of Cultural Resource Management

CRM archaeologists use a variety of methods to identify, evaluate, and protect cultural resources. These methods include:

Archaeological survey: Archaeological surveys are conducted to identify archaeological sites. Surveys can be conducted on the ground, from the air, or using remote sensing techniques.
Historical research: Historical research is conducted to identify historic buildings and cultural landscapes. Historical research can be conducted using a variety of sources, such as archival documents, maps, and photographs.
Architectural survey: Architectural surveys are conducted to document the architectural features of historic buildings. Architectural surveys can be used to assess the significance of historic buildings and to identify potential threats to their integrity.

Ethical Considerations in Cultural Resource Management

CRM archaeologists are bound by a number of ethical considerations, including:

Respect for cultural diversity: CRM archaeologists must respect the cultural diversity of the communities in which they work. They must be aware of the different cultural values and beliefs that may be associated with cultural resources and must take these values and beliefs into account in their work.
Objectivity and impartiality: CRM archaeologists must be objective and impartial in their work. They must not allow their personal beliefs or biases to influence their professional judgment.
Confidentiality: CRM archaeologists must maintain the confidentiality of information about cultural resources. This information should be shared only with those who have a legitimate need to know it.

The Future of Cultural Resource Management

The future of CRM is bright. As the world becomes increasingly developed, the need for CRM archaeologists will only grow. CRM archaeologists will continue to play an important role in protecting our cultural heritage and ensuring that it is passed on to future generations.

Cultural Resource Management: A Collaborative Primer for Archaeologists

by Thomas F. King

4.6 out of 5