State Historic Preservation Office Tami Koontz

Mission: The GIS mission of the State Historic Preservation Office is to map all of the prehistoric and historic cultural resources within the state and, with the exception of archaeological sites, make this information available to the public to encourage preservation of our heritage, and promote tourism of historic sites. We cover all prehistoric and historic archaeological sites and historic architectural sites throughout the state.

How We Benefit State Mapping Our maps will primarily benefit any agencies required to complete the Section 106 process (highways, waterlines, cell towers, etc). Section 106 requires a clearance letter from the SHPO before proceeding with any project using federal dollars to insure that historic cultural resources are not being impacted. With the cultural resources mapped and available, an agency can avoid areas that may potentially disturb historic resources in the planning stages saving substantial time and money. The historic architectural sites, especially the National Register of Historic Places, can be used to promote heritage tourism and education.

Top 3 Accomplishments This Year Worked with the WVU GIS Technical Center to update the WV National Register sites and have them printed to USGS topographic maps. Digitized approximately 90% of the archaeological sites and surveys. Developed a “Release of Archaeological Information” form. Organized architectural inventory so that digitizing can be completed. To date, approximately 20,000 sites have been mapped.

Top 3 Goals For Next Year Complete digitizing of archaeological and architectural sites Migrate from ArcView 3.3 to ArcGIS. Upgrade hardware throughout SHPO. Working with Division on the GIS component for the new website. Educate more of the SHPO staff on using the GIS system.