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Oregon Survey Program
Purpose of the Survey Program
Geiser Grand Hotel, Baker City
Geiser Grand Hotel, Baker City
 
Surveys of historic and archaeological resources are important to the citizens of Oregon because they help us identify significant buildings and sites, and focus our limited resources on their preservation. Mandated by the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966, and Amendments, surveys are carried out and supported by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), as well as by historic preservation professionals on contract to other state agencies, local governments, and businesses.
 
A survey is the process of gathering and recording information about cultural resources. Once recorded, resources are listed in the statewide inventory maintained by the SHPO and on city or county inventories maintained by local jurisdictions. Conducting surveys and creating an inventory of resources are usually the first steps leading to local recognition and preservation of those resources most important to our state and local heritage.

Oregon Survey Program
 
The Oregon survey program is designed to identify potential historic resources through Reconnaissance and Intensive Level Surveys, culminating in the nomination of individual properties and historic districts to the National Register of Historic Places. Although the survey program is designed as a contiguous system, there are several opportunities throughout the process to design products for use in community education and planning, which may include interpretive signage, community presentations, and walking, biking, or digital tours. This survey process is also designed to meet the needs of those completing federal Section 106 and 4F documentation, and state and local agencies complying with state land-use laws. Surveys involving archaeological resources follow different procedures and must comply with federal and state law.
 
Please contact the appropriate SHPO staff member before completing any survey work.
 

Survey Guidelines and Resources
 
Guidelines for Historic Resource Surveys in Oregon [pdf] – SHPO guidelines for completing Reconnaissance and Intensive Level Surveys
 
Oregon Historic Sites Database – An online database for both National Register and surveyed properties
 
National Register Bulletins and Brochures - National Park Service webpage of useful publications on completing resource surveys and National Register documentation

SHPO Contacts By Program Area

Oregon National Register and Survey Program 
Ian Johnson
Historian                                     
(503) 986-0678
ian.johnson@state.or.us
Diana Painter
Architectural Historian
(503) 986-0668
diana.painter@state.or.us           
 
Review and Compliance Program

Jason Allen
Historic Preservation Specialist
(503) 986-0579
jason.allen@state.or.us
Ian Johnson
Historian
(503) 986-0678          
ian.johnson@state.or.us
 
Archaeological Services
Dr. Dennis Griffin
State Archaeologist                
(503) 986-0674
dennis.griffin@state.or.us
John Pouley
Assistant State Archaeologist
(503) 986-0675
john.pouley@state.or.us