GeomorphIS to Conduct Ethnographic Survey at Great Basin National Park

The National Park Service (NPS), Great Basin National Park (GRBA), has tasked a GeomorphIS-Algonquin team to compile ethnographic information about associated tribal peoples in the study area, document traditional associations between these peoples and the Park, and provide direction for future ethnographic research. The team will also provide information that can be used to develop and enhance consultative and collaborative relationships between the Park and its associated communities. It is anticipated that the study will identify culturally specific uses of park resources and culturally or historically significant sites, places, or objects within the park related to cave resources. It will provide important information about the extent to which natural and cultural resources are considered to be heritage resources in the context of the history and cultural traditions and practices of the contemporary communities or groups. The research will examine traditional uses of plant and animal communities, geographic features, and structures, and identify those places and resources significant to associated groups as relates to caves. The results of the project will be used to provide the salient ethnohistorical and ethnographic context of park resources as baseline ethnographic documentation. Among other applications, the information will help managers identify and emplace historical and traditional (ongoing) uses of natural and cultural resources within the park, serve as the basis for dialogue and conversations with park neighbors about the heritage values of the Park to local communities and groups, and enhance park resource management decision-making and interpretation.