Purpose
Created to strengthen tribal participation in Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) programming and projects with a focus on historic preservation and environmental issues.
Background
In 2006 a pilot project was initiated through a memorandum of agreement between WisDOT and Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians. The project is now managed by the Sokaogon Chippewa Community.
This project was designed to strengthen tribal participation in WisDOT programming and projects with a focus on historic preservation and environmental issues. Five years later, this project is strong and continues to thrive.
Members
This project is led in partnership by the Sokaogon Chippewa Community with membership consisting of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers from the federally recognized tribes of Wisconsin, federal agencies, and WisDOT staff.
Meetings
Project meetings occur on a bi-monthly basis with Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (THPO), tribal elders, spiritual advisors and tribal preservation experts to seek guidance on the care and treatment of historic properties, sacred sites, burials and traditional cultural properties.
Project highlights
- Redrafting of the Facilities Development Manual (FDM) chapter 26, which deals with the Section 106 process.
- A draft environmental/cultural resource consultation policy.
- An annual listening session between all stakeholders in WisDOT project efforts.
- Direct involvement with tribes in state planning and project specific initiatives and regular preservation training opportunities for both tribes and WisDOT employees.
Resources
State Burial Sites Office