Frequently Asked Questions

Why study cultural resources?

Both the federal government and the State of California have acknowledged the importance of our nation's cultural heritage to its citizens.  Where possible, these links to our past are to be preserved for future generations.  Where preservation is not possible, scientific studies of these resources are mandated. 

The acknowledgement of the importance of these limited, non-renewable cultural resources and the requirements for preservation and scientific studies are contained within many pieces of federal and state legislation.  The primary sources are Sections 106 and 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA), and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). 

What is meant by Phase I, II, and III?
Cultural resource management typically requires three phases, commonly labeled with Roman numerals I, II, and III.  A more detailed explanation of these phases are presented on a separate page.  Go to detailed explanation of Phases

Phase I refers to the identification phase that typically includes document searches and physical inspection (survey) of the project area. 

Phase II refers to the evaluation of significance/importance of cultural resources identified during Phase I studies typically through the collection of a minimal sample.

Phase III refers to the mitigation of direct and indirect impacts to cultural resources resulting from the development of the project area.  Mitigation can take many forms from complete site avoidance and preservation to recovery of a representative sample of the site constituents for study and reporting prior to site destruction.

Why choose project redesign over data recovery?
Early identification often allows for the preservation of cultural resources through cost-effective project redesign.  Where preservation cannot be accommodated, a Phase III data recovery program is implemented to recover a set percentage of the archaeological materials present, typically ranging between 5 and 10 percent of the impact area.   The recovery, processing, analysis, reporting, and curation of archaeological materials costs thousands of dollars per one meter square excavation unit.  Given that 20 to 50 such units are often required to meet the mandated sample percentage, costs can easily exceed that of project redesign.  Again, early identification and evaluation allows for project redesign during the initial planning process.

How long will the cultural resource studies take?
A small Phase I reconnaissance survey may be completed in as little as one to two weeks from notice-to-proceed to submittal of a draft report.  Larger surveys require larger crews, additional field time, or both.  Phase II evaluation studies require field, laboratory, and reporting time and are highly variable.  Phase III program are also too variable to estimate without specific project area and archaeological site data.   An interim letter report to lead agencies with preliminary results will often suffice to permit development to proceed; a final, detailed report of findings is required for occupancy permit approval.

More questions regarding cultural resource investigations?
We will be happy to provide more detailed information regarding your specific needs and a cost estimate.  E-mail Bglenn@PacificWestArch.com or call 760-765-1289.