South Pass National Historic Landmark boundary study
BLM seeks volunteers
January 23, 2006
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is conducting a study to recommend boundaries for the South Pass National Historic Landmark. The BLM is in need of skilled volunteers to assist in trail recordation and trail site and feature documentation.
The South Pass National Historic Landmark was designated in 1961 but has lacked boundaries for the last 45 years. The Bureau has partnered with participating landowners; the National Park Service Long-Distance Trails Office; the National Park Service National Landmark Office; the Oregon-California Trails Association; and the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office that are joining in the study. Collectively, these groups and agencies will complete historical document research and the field assessments that are needed to complete the process of designating a boundary for the South Pass National Historic Landmark.
The study will result in the evaluation of the condition of trails and trail-related sites and features in the area. The research being completed is the first comprehensive review of documentation combined with field-checking ever done for the entire South Pass area.
"The volunteers accepted for this particular study need to have established skills, such as trail recordation, prior experience with global positioning system (GPS) units; an understanding of digital cameras; and comprehensive writing experience," said Terry Del Bene, lead archeologist with the Rock Springs BLM office.
"We will be conducting a volunteer program bringing together historians, trail experts, and professional archaeologists from across the country," explained Del Bene. Fieldwork will take place from June 19-30, 2006, in the South Pass area.
Anyone interested in being a part of this unique opportunity should contact the BLM Rock Springs Field Office in writing by May 1, 2006. The office address is:
Rock Springs BLM
ATTN: Cultural Resources
280 Highway 191 North
Rock Springs, WY 82901
Include your name, mailing address, a brief list of qualifications, and dates available to volunteer. There is limited space available and qualified volunteers will be taken on a first-come, first-serve basis. Qualified volunteers will be mailed a volunteer packet with more specific information.
For more information, contact Terry Del Bene at (307) 352-0301; or Colleen Sievers (307) 352-0324.
|
