Providing Cultural Research Assistance to Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Project ID: J8W07110024

Federal Agency: National Park Service

Partner Institution: Portland State University

Fiscal Year: 2011

Initial Funding: $12,000

Total Funding: $67,150

Project Type: Technical Assistance

Project Disciplines: Cultural

National Park: Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Principal Investigator: Deur, Doug

Agreement Technical Representative: Huff, Elaine

Abstract: The National Park Service (NPS) and Portland State University (PSU) will collaborate in the study and documentation of several culturally significant sites in the Columbia-Pacific region of Washington and Oregon that are directly related to the mission of Lewis and Clark National Historical Park (LEWI). The project will include historical research, production of reports documenting cultural significance and integrity, and the development of recommendations for site protection. The resulting work will help the park in guiding future study, interpretation, and cultural resource management relating to these sites. LEWI staff will collaborate on this project by coordinating and participating in community consultation and ensure meaningful involvement of park partners. NPS will also assist with providing cultural resource data as well as GIS/computer mapping support. LEWI staff will review draft reports and provide comments, and distribute final work products. There are several public benefits to this project, including more effective interpretation and resource management at locations relating to the mission of LEWI, and the participation of PSU students in applied cultural research. The resulting documentation can be used by park-associated tribes to support their efforts to identify and preserve traditionally significant resources. NPS involvement in this project supports the research and educational mission of PSU and the academic mission to provide leadership in cultural and natural resource studies.