Cultural resource management

Definition

Cultural resource management (CRM) is the practice of managing and protecting cultural heritage resources, including archaeological sites, historical buildings, and artifacts. This process ensures that these resources are preserved for future generations while allowing for responsible development and research. CRM plays a critical role in balancing the needs of modern society with the importance of cultural heritage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cultural resource management emerged as a formal discipline in the United States during the 1960s, driven by legislation like the National Historic Preservation Act.
2. CRM involves collaboration among archaeologists, historians, architects, and local communities to ensure cultural resources are properly managed.
3. In many countries, CRM requires compliance with legal frameworks that protect cultural heritage, often leading to surveys and assessments before construction projects.
4. CRM practices can include public education initiatives that raise awareness about the importance of preserving cultural resources.
5. Sustainable development is a key principle in CRM, promoting the idea that development should not come at the expense of cultural heritage.

Review Questions

• How does cultural resource management address the balance between development and the preservation of cultural heritage?
  • Cultural resource management seeks to find a balance between development needs and the preservation of cultural heritage by implementing legal frameworks that require assessments before construction projects. By involving archaeologists and historians in the planning stages, CRM helps ensure that significant archaeological sites or historical structures are documented and protected. This collaborative approach encourages developers to consider cultural resources in their projects, ultimately leading to more responsible and informed decision-making.
• Discuss the impact of legislation on the practice of cultural resource management in safeguarding archaeological sites.
  • Legislation has had a profound impact on cultural resource management by establishing guidelines and requirements for the preservation of archaeological sites. Laws such as the National Historic Preservation Act have mandated that federal agencies consider the effects of their actions on historic properties. This has led to increased funding for archaeological surveys and assessments, ensuring that sites are documented and protected before any development takes place. Such legislative measures have fostered a greater awareness of cultural heritage's value within both governmental agencies and the general public.
• Evaluate how cultural resource management can contribute to community engagement and public awareness regarding local heritage.
  • Cultural resource management plays a vital role in fostering community engagement and enhancing public awareness about local heritage by involving community members in preservation efforts and educational initiatives. Through public workshops, archaeological site tours, and collaborative projects, CRM encourages individuals to connect with their local history and take pride in their cultural identity. By actively involving communities in these processes, CRM not only helps protect cultural resources but also empowers residents to advocate for their preservation, leading to stronger connections between people and their shared heritage.

Related terms

Heritage Conservation: The process of protecting and preserving cultural heritage sites and artifacts for future generations.

Archaeological Survey: A systematic examination of a landscape to identify and document archaeological sites, often a key component of CRM.

Site Management Plan: A strategic plan developed to manage, protect, and preserve a specific cultural heritage site.