Condition Assessments of the First and Second Fort Bowie
Project ID: J8W07110027
Federal Agency: National Park Service
Partner Institution: University of Vermont and State Agriculture College
Fiscal Year: 2011
Initial Funding: $205,125
Total Funding: $205,125
Project Type: Technical Assistance
Project Disciplines: Cultural
National Park: Fort Bowie National Historic Site
Principal Investigator: Porter, Doug
Agreement Technical Representative: Skeirik, Randy
Abstract: The School of Engineering at the University of Vermont (UVM) will participate with staff from the National Park Service (NPS) in a collaborative program of research, documentation, assessment, training, and application of pilot treatments at the First and Second Fort Bowie. To preserve cultural resources, enhance interpretive opportunities, and improve visitor safety, the UVM will compile a comprehensive treatment history, document existing conditions, and conduct condition assessments of both the First and Second Forts. The primarily stone and adobe remains of both forts are important contributing elements to the park’s National Register status, and have proven a difficult preservation challenge. By compiling a history of preservation treatments, conducting a condition assessment, and creating an accurate record of the remaining architecture, the park will be able to assess the efficacy of past preservation treatments and develop a forward looking preservation plan that will ensure that the site is preserved to the greatest extent possible while also enhancing the interpretive experience. NPS will be involved in the project in several ways, including assisting with archival research, collaborating and participating in project development and execution including development of the Field School curriculum and work plan, assisting with logistical needs, participating in on-site project management and field implementation, and providing technical review and support. There are several public benefits of this project. Because it includes educational and training components, UVM students, NPS staff, and practicing professionals will be directly involved in portions of the work including field assessment, organization of site-collected data, data analysis, and possibly the implementation of pilot treatments. Another value UVM realizes through this project is the enhancement of the knowledge base that it uses to develop and deliver curricula, and the real-world experiences its students receive through participation in research and development activities.