SITEWATCH PROGRAM

WHAT IS SITEWATCH?   SiteWatch trains citizen volunteers to assist land-management agencies and their preservation partners, including the Historic Preservation Division, in the protection of New Mexico’s cultural resources. It is a network of trained volunteers who monitor prehistoric and historic resources on public, private and tribal lands in their communities. Archaeological sites, historic buildings and places, trails, neon signs, bridges and structures are adopted by site stewards who routinely monitor them for signs of erosion, wear and tear, vandalism, and looting.


The Torrance County Archaeological Society formed the first Sitewatch chapter in this area in 2003 with 12 members.  We started monitoring 3 sites located within the boundaries of the Cibola National Forest.  Today (1917) we are monitoring 12 sites throughout central New Mexico


We are currently expanding our Sitewatch membership as well as the number of sites we are monitoring.


Who can become a Site Steward?

Anyone who is ready to make a commitment to historic preservation and willing to abide by the SiteWatch Code of Conduct.


How are stewards trained?

Training classes are ongoing, and will be held quarterly around the state. Contact the program coordinator for more information.


Who are some of our SiteWatch partners

Land management agencies (Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, State Parks, State Lands Office, Los Alamos County, Santa Fe County), professional and educational organizations (New Mexico Archaeological Council, Archaeological Society of New Mexico and local affiliates), plus members of the public from around the state. Check out some of our steward partners at:


    * http://www.nmhistoricpreservation.org/programs/sitewatch.html

    * http://www.sfnfsitestewards.org/ and in Arizona:

    • http://www.azsitestewardprogram.com


How do I get more information?

Visit the New Mexico Sitewatch website at:

http://www.nmhistoricpreservation.org/PROGRAMS/sitewatch.html

Please call Jessica Badner, Coordinator, at (505) 476-6160, or e-mail her at jessica.badner@state.nm.us.