The Federal Archeology Program Report to Congress 1996-97

National Park Service; Babbit, Bruce; Haas, Daniel

The stewardship of America's archeological heritage is a well-established policy and function of the federal government. Interagency cooperation and partnerships are fundamental to this mission. Archeological resources—sites, collections, and records—are unique and fragile. They must be used wisely and protected for future generations. In 1991 the Secretary of the Interior identified areas of special emphasis for federal agencies with archeological programs. This update of the National Strategy renews our effort to pursue these actions. Preserve and Protect Archeological Sites in Place • Identify, evaluate, and document sites • Increase our understanding of the past and improve preservation through well-designed research • Assess and document threats to sites and monitor their condition • Prevent or slow deterioration of sites by stabilization and other means • Fight looting with public awareness programs and effective legal strategies among archeologists, law enforcement officers, and public prosecutors Conserve Archeological Collections and Records • Locate collections and records, assess their condition, and conserve appropriately • Identify actions needed to ensure long-term care of and access to collections and records • Undertake, facilitate, and promote research using collections and records to better understand the past Utilize and Share Archeological Research Results • Synthesize research results, particularly from the grey literature, to advance scientific knowledge, further preservation, and better inform the public • Facilitate use of archeological databases by managers and researchers • Develop data standards to better share research results Increase Public Education and Participation in Archeology • Establish education programs as a regular agency function • Interpret archeological research for the public in a way that is accurate and understandable • Consider the views of diverse cultural groups when interpreting the past • Engage the public in archeology through professionally directed volunteer programs