Cultural Resource Management

Definition

Cultural resource management (CRM) is a professional field that focuses on the identification, evaluation, and preservation of cultural resources, such as archaeological sites, historic buildings, and artifacts. It involves the careful planning and implementation of strategies to protect these resources, especially in the face of development and change. CRM practitioners work to balance the need for progress with the responsibility to safeguard cultural heritage for future generations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cultural resource management is often required by law, especially under legislation like the National Historic Preservation Act in the U.S., which mandates consideration of cultural resources during federal projects.
2. CRM includes various activities such as archaeological testing, excavation, documentation, and analysis to ensure that cultural resources are not harmed during development.
3. One key aspect of CRM is public engagement, where archaeologists work with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
4. CRM practitioners often collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private developers, and indigenous groups, to create effective management plans.
5. The field of CRM has grown significantly over the past few decades due to increased awareness of the value of cultural heritage and the impact of modernization on archaeological sites.

Review Questions

• How does cultural resource management integrate with historical archaeology methods?
  • Cultural resource management utilizes principles and methods from historical archaeology by applying systematic techniques such as excavation, artifact analysis, and historical research. These methods help identify significant archaeological sites that need protection. By integrating these approaches, CRM practitioners can develop informed strategies to preserve cultural resources while accommodating modern development needs.
• Discuss the ethical considerations in cultural resource management when dealing with archaeological evidence of slave quarters and plantations.
  • Ethical considerations in cultural resource management surrounding slave quarters and plantations include respecting the cultural significance of these sites for descendant communities. Practitioners must navigate sensitive issues related to representation, interpretation, and community engagement. Involvement of local descendants in decision-making ensures that their perspectives are incorporated into preservation efforts, fostering a more inclusive approach to managing these culturally significant resources.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current practices in cultural resource management regarding the preservation of archaeological evidence from plantations and slave quarters.
  • Current practices in cultural resource management can be evaluated based on their ability to protect archaeological evidence from plantations and slave quarters while promoting public awareness and education. Effective CRM involves not just legal compliance but also proactive community engagement strategies that foster dialogue about these sensitive histories. The effectiveness can also be measured through successful collaborations between CRM professionals and descendant communities that result in shared narratives and sustainable preservation efforts.

Related terms

Archaeological Survey: A systematic examination of a specific area to locate and document archaeological sites and artifacts, often conducted as a preliminary step in CRM.

Site Management: The process of overseeing and maintaining archaeological sites or historic properties to ensure their preservation and accessibility.

Cultural Heritage:

The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society inherited from past generations, which is essential for understanding cultural identity.