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.
Archaeological surveys are conducted by professional archaeologists and must be done according to the State of Oregon Archaeological Survey and Reporting Standards.
All identified archaeological sites (both prehistoric and historic) and isolated finds need to be recorded on Oregon SHPO Archaeological Services´ forms. These surveys and site forms must be completed to comply with the federal Section 106 compliance requirements as well as research conducted by universities, private consultants or Tribal archaeologists.
All survey documents are inventoried by the SHPO, and data is added to the archaeological database. Information on known archaeological sites is not available to the general public. Qualified archaeological researchers may make an appointment to search the archaeological files with the SHPO Archaeologist.
Those conducting surveys to comply with federal or state law should follow the procedures outlined on the Review and Compliance page of this website.
Please contact the appropriate SHPO staff member before completing any survey work.
--> Oregon Data Codes List - List of style, material, and use categories for Historic Sites Database and SHPO forms. [pdf]
--> State of Oregon Guidelines for Reporting on Archaeological Investigations [pdf]
--> Guidance for Recording and Evaluating Linear Cultural Resources [pdf] |