Conduct Field Schools to Assess and Stabilize the Evening Star and Bronze (Live Oak) Mines, Mojave National Preserve

Project ID: P13AC00923

Federal Agency: National Park Service

Partner Institution: University of Vermont and State Agriculture College

Fiscal Year: 2013

Initial Funding: $184,999

Total Funding: $184,999

Project Type: Research

Project Disciplines: Cultural

National Park: Mojave National Preserve

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 pilot treatment at the Evening Star and Bronze (Live Oak) Mines in Mojave National Preserve. To preserve cultural resources, enhance interpretive opportunities, and improve visitor safety, the UVM will assess current conditions, propose repairs, and evaluate repair options in the pilot treatment of both mine sites. UVM will assemble a specialized team to conduct the condition assessment and propose treatment strategies for the mine structures. Pilot repair will be addressed using a field school format led by professional timber framers that will result in training of students, park staff, and others in the repair techniques to be implemented. These tasks will be conducted in two stages. The first will assess, analyze, and make recommendations for stabilization, and the second will establish methods for stabilization through implementation of selected portions of the recommendations. Staff from UVM and NPS will participate in both stages. 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. Public benefits of this project include educational and training components. UVM students, NPS staff, and practicing professionals will be directly involved in all portions of the work including field assessment, organization of site-collected data, data analysis, and the implementation of pilot treatments.