"Archaeology is the study of past human behaviour based on material culture (the things people leave behind)"
Historical Resource Management in Alberta
In Alberta, certain types of Historical Resources (Archaeological sites) are protected by provincial legislation. These sites are protected regardless of their location (i.e., private or public land). In Alberta, Historical Resources like Archaeological sites are managed under a government-developed framework known as the Historical Resource Value (HRV) system. HRV ratings are assigned to sites and parcels of land in a ranked fashion, with HRV - 1 being the highest value (UNESCO World Heritage sites have and HRV rating of 1). Where proposed developments are concerned, the HRV system is a key tool for gauging and implementing the Historical Resources Approval process. Historical Resources with a designated HRV rating are protected by the Historical Resources Act, which is legislated by the Historic Resources Management Branch of Alberta Culture.
The Archaeological Survey administers the Archaeological Permit Management System that regulates Archaeological projects throughout Alberta, and maintains the records of Archaeological sites. Archaeologists within the section evaluate these sites and take measures to ensure their protection and proper investigation through Historical Resources Impact Assessments. They also assess the significance of sites under consideration for designation as Provincial Historic Resources, and work with communities to protect sites considered to be significant (from: Alberta Culture).
If one identifies an Archaeological site, it must be reported! This can be done through the Report-A-Find system, or by contacting a local Professional Consulting Archaeologist.
The Archaeological Survey administers the Archaeological Permit Management System that regulates Archaeological projects throughout Alberta, and maintains the records of Archaeological sites. Archaeologists within the section evaluate these sites and take measures to ensure their protection and proper investigation through Historical Resources Impact Assessments. They also assess the significance of sites under consideration for designation as Provincial Historic Resources, and work with communities to protect sites considered to be significant (from: Alberta Culture).
If one identifies an Archaeological site, it must be reported! This can be done through the Report-A-Find system, or by contacting a local Professional Consulting Archaeologist.
The AB Association of Consulting Archaeologists represents many professional consulting archaeologists in Alberta. If you're in need of hiring a Professional Consultant to fulfill Archaeological services, the ACA will soon provide a list of consulting firms associated with it's members.
If you would like more information on Archaeological Resource Management and Legislation in Alberta, please visit the Arts, Culture, and the Status of Women (ACSW) webpage.
If you would like more information on Archaeological Resource Management and Legislation in Alberta, please visit the Arts, Culture, and the Status of Women (ACSW) webpage.