The Nevada Archaeological Site Stewardship Program, or Nevada Program, is an organization of volunteers sponsored by federal land managing agencies that share a commitment to the preservation of archaeological resources. The Nevada Program provides an opportunity for concerned citizens to volunteer as site stewards for the federal agencies to monitor the condition of at-risk archaeological sites for signs of natural or man-made damage. Because vandalism, theft, excessive visitation and natural deterioration are impacting the cultural and scientific values of Nevada’s archaeological resources Site Stewards are a valued source of protection to our shared heritage. The destruction of archaeological resources continues, in many cases, because of a lack of understanding by the public of the true value of archaeology and a lack of regular surveillance of the sites. Federal agency archaeologists simply do not have time to visit all the sites in their assigned regions. This is where the Nevada Archaeological Site Stewardship Program fits in. The Nevada Program provides the necessary work force of volunteers needed to help protect the archaeological resources from additional harm.
For more photos of the damage at Little Red Rock click on the picture below
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
The chief objective of the Nevada Archaeological Site Stewardship Program is to report to the responsible land manager about any changes to the condition of archaeological resources including the destruction, vandalism or other deterioration of sites in Nevada at least 4 times per year. In recognition of the fact that prehistoric and historic archaeological resources are irreplaceable national resources, the volunteer site stewards participating in this Program work towards the following goals To preserve prehistoric and historic archaeological resources for the purposes of conservation, scientific study and interpretation.To increase public awareness of the significance and value of archaeological resources and the existing state and federal laws enacted for historical preservation. To discourage site vandalism and theft. To promote understanding, cooperation and partnerships between the participating federal agencies, Native Americans and concerned citizens and to encourage respect and conservation of traditional lands and archaeological resources.
WHO CAN BE A SITE STEWARD?
Any person eighteen years of age or older who is interested in the preservation of archaeological resources and who is willing to abide by the Code of Ethics can be a steward in the Nevada Archaeological Site Stewardship Program. Stewards will serve on a volunteer basis and will be recruited and selected without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. However, no person who has been convicted of a violent crime, crime against a person, crime involving the use of a weapon, or any other felony shall be utilized as a volunteer. Site stewards may be subject to a background check by the agency involved.HOW DO I BECOME A SITE STEWARD?
Step 1. Contact the State Historic Preservation Office, Las Vegas at (702) 486-5011 and/or Sali Underwood the Site Stewardship Coordinator at saunderw@clan.lib.nv.us to find out when the next training session will be held in your area. Step 2. Attend a free 6 to 7 hour Basic Training class that is offered as needed throughout the state. The class covers federal and state archaeological preservation laws, site steward procedures, archaeological identification and safety. Step 3. Schedule a Baseline Visit to your assigned site with the agency archaeologist. This visit establishes the condition of the site and can last anywhere from an hour to 4 hours depending on the location. Step 4. Visit your site at least 4 times per year and turn in reports concerning the condition of the site to your assigned Regional Coordinator. Step 5. Enjoy yourself and have a blast by knowing that you’re making a difference in helping to preserve archaeological resources!!
The information for this web page was taken directly from the State Historic Preservation Office web site @
State Historic Preservation Office
Other Site Steward Programs in Nevada
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