Cultural Resources Management
Desert Archaeology is committed to serving client interests at every step of the way. Our team of CRM professionals helps you navigate archaeological and historical compliance requirements to efficiently bring your project to completion.
Cultural resources management is, at its most basic, a process of exploration and discovery, followed by documentation and analysis, that is conducted in an environment of planning and development. Each step of the process has reporting requirements that communicate plans and results to regulatory agencies and other project stakeholders.
Desert Archaeology uses a team-based approach to accomplish projects once they are defined. Personnel with the expertise best suited to a project are assigned to the project team. Members of that team stay with the project from start to finish, providing continuity and consistency throughout.
A project might include some or all of the steps described on this page, depending on the cultural resources present and the planned impacts of the project. Excavation projects are followed by a phase of specialized analyses, during which the objects and samples recovered during fieldwork are examined. These analyses are the source of some of the most profound insights about the past.
Records Review
A records review compiles current knowledge about previous archaeological work conducted and cultural resources found in or near a project area. This is a useful preliminary indicator of cultural resources sensitivity during the due diligence process. It can also be a first step in evaluating alternatives during the early phases of a project.
Survey
Field surveys identify and document evidence of past cultural activity on a property by examining the modern ground surface.
Construction Monitoring
For some projects, monitoring during construction is the most appropriate way to address cultural resources requirements. This applies when ground disturbance is limited or located in heavily developed settings, or as a precautionary measure due to nearby cultural resources. We work closely with contractors to minimize disruption to construction activities.
Excavation
If significant cultural resources are found in the project area, excavations may be required. Excavation phases are guided by project-specific plans that describe the project goals, research issues, and field methods. With 30+ years of experience in the Southwest, we construct solid, efficient research designs that anticipate and avoid complications and delays, allowing us to focus on the key issues involved in your project.
Reporting Results
Desert Archaeology’s professionally edited and produced reports communicate the results of our work in a way that meets archaeological standards and satisfies our clients’ compliance requirements.
Public Outreach
People love learning about the archaeology of their neighborhood or city. Publicizing project results can generate goodwill for the client and can enhance the value of archaeological discoveries.