Heritage Program

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	USDA Forest Service Recreation, Heritage & Wilderness Resources Mail Stop 1125 1400 Independence Ave. SW Washington, D.C. 20090-1125 (202) 205-1706


	Recreation, Heritage & Wilderness Programs
	Programs: Heritage Resources

"It's About Time"

Waiting silently in the mountains, canyons, and river valleys of our national forests and grasslands are the remnants of past cultures that confront us and remind us of the centuries-old relationship between people and the land. These heritage resources hold clues to past ecosystems, add richness and depth to our landscapes, provide links to living traditions, and help transform a beautiful walk in the woods into an unforgettable encounter with history. - National Heritage Strategy

Purpose of the Heritage Program:

To protect significant heritage resources, to share their values with the American people, and to contribute relevant information and perspectives to natural resource management. In so doing we will:

ensure that future generations will have an opportunity to discover the human story etched on the landscapes of our national forests and grasslands;
make the past come alive as a vibrant part of our recreational experiences and community life; and
connect people to the land in a way that will help us better understand and manage forest ecosystems.

Opportunities to Become Involved ---

Passport in Time, also known as “PIT”, is a volunteer program, inviting the public to share in the thrill of discovery through archaeological and historic research.

Heritage Expeditions are educational tours and programs about historic and prehistoric sites on national forests.

Stewardship ---

Protecting Heritage Sites. The past belongs to all Americans. When looters and vandals destroy archaeological and historic sites, part of the Nation's heritage is lost forever. Sites on public lands are protected by the Archaeological Resources Protection Act and other statutes.

Be a Steward of the Past:

Treat remains of past cultures with respect.
Tread lightly when visiting heritage sites.
Leave artifacts where you find them.
Photograph and enjoy rock art, but do not touch fragile surfaces.
Help preserve the past by volunteering your time and talents.

National Register of Historic Places ---
Listing on the National Register of Historic Places recognizes a heritage site's special significance.

Considerations in Management of National Forests
	Consideration in Planning. Prior to on-the-ground land management activities, such as road construction, campground development, and prescribed burns, archaeologists conduct inventories to locate and evaluate heritage sites. They also recommend protection or mitigation measures. Forest Service undertakings must comply with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and with 36 CFR 800, the regulations of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.