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Cultural Resources Training Series, Part 1

Aztec Ruins, New Mexico Gathering Data Eexcavation of an archeological site

Course Introduction 

The purpose of this training is to increase student knowledge of NRCS’ cultural resources stewardship responsibilities. It is designed for field office personnel, partners and others who work with the NRCS State Cultural Resources Specialists and Coordinators (CRSs and CRCs) in meeting the agency’s National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) compliance responsibilities. Completion of this training is also a requirement for certification under the NRCS Conservation Planning Certification training program.

This training consists of eight modules, six Web-based modules and two additional modules tailored to State and Regional cultural resources and requirements which have been developed by each NRCS State Office. Upon completion of the Web-based portion, there is a test.  You must receive a score of 80 percent to successfully complete this portion of the course. Successful completion of the first six modules is also required to move on to the two final modules, Module 7 (regional resources discussed in a classroom setting) and Module 8 (site/field visit), both of which are presented by a cultural resources specialist. NRCS' Conservation Planning Certification also requires, among other things, successful completion of this cultural resources course.

The document linked below provides a more comprehensive overview of the Cultural Resources Training Series and guidance for state specialists and coordinators who conduct modules 7 and 8 of this training.

This document requires Adobe Acrobat.

Adobe Acrobat DocumentOverview of Cultural Resources Training Series

The Web-based modules are:

  • Module 1 - Why Cultural Resources are Important
  • Module 2 - Cultural Resources in the Planning Process
  • Module 3 - Using Existing Information to Identify Cultural Resources
  • Module 4 - Identifying Cultural Resources in the Field
  • Module 5 - Evaluation and Treatment of Cultural Resources
  • Module 6 - Protecting Cultural Resources Under Specific Circumstances

You will encounter review questions throughout the program.  These questions relate to and highlight the most significant content.

If you have any questions or comments about the course contents, please direct them to Sarah Bridges in the Ecological Sciences Division. Direct any questions that are specific to state policy or operations to the appropriate personnel in your state.

If you experience problems with linked sites, downloading documents or other issues with the operation of the program, please contact the Webmaster.

To proceed through this program, select next page below.

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