Chawse’e Archaeology is a distinguished tribal archaeology firm operated by enrolled members of the Southern Sierra Miwuk Tribe.

As a dedicated entity, we specialize in the preservation, management, and study of cultural resources, aligning our practices with legal, ethical, and scientific standards. Our commitment extends to fostering collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, tribes, and environmental planners, to ensure comprehensive cultural resource stewardship.

Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) Functions:

Chawse’e Archaeology operates with Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) or The Cultural Preservation Office Director and Tribal Councils on tribal lands. Chawse’e Archaeology engages in NAGPRA and Cal-NAGPRA to help facilitate repatriation efforts among Facilities that hold materials, funerary objects, and ancestorial remains. This effort is led by the tribes, agencies, and Chawse’e Archaeology as trained facilitator 

At Chawse’e Archaeology, we take pride in our role as Principal Investigators, leading science-based and culturally appropriate resource management plans and site protection plans. Our commitment to preserving cultural heritage is unwavering, and we strive to be at the forefront of cultural resource stewardship in collaboration with various stakeholders.

At Chawse’e Archaeology, our team specializes in conducting comprehensive surveys and assessments in alignment with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and other relevant regulations. Enrolled members of the Southern Sierra Miwuk Tribe, we bring a unique understanding and commitment to preserving cultural heritage. Here's how we handle NEPA/CEQA surveys and associated responsibilities:

NEPA/CEQA Surveys: Our archaeologists undertake thorough surveys to identify and evaluate potential impacts on cultural resources for proposed projects. This involves:

1. Field Investigations:

  • Conducting meticulous field surveys to locate and document archaeological sites, artifacts, and features within the project area.

2. Site Recording and Documentation:

  • Employing standardized recording methods to document archaeological sites comprehensively.

  • Creating detailed maps, photographs, and written reports to contribute to environmental impact assessments.

3. Impact Analysis:

  • Conducting in-depth analyses of potential project impacts on cultural resources.

  • Providing expert recommendations for mitigation measures to minimize or offset adverse effects.

Dig Deeper

Key Services and Expertise

Coordination and Cooperation:

  • Collaborate with Program Managers and staff to streamline intra-agency

  • processes, promoting efficiency and consistency in department-wide and

  • statewide endeavors.

  • Integrate cultural resource stewardship goals into broader agency initiatives.

  • Develop and assist in the formulation of management plans, ensuring alignment with legal and ethical cultural resource requirements.

Issue Resolution and Strategic Development:

  • Facilitate resolution of pertinent cultural resource management issues through expertise and collaboration with agencies, tribes, and stakeholders. 

  • Implement cultural resource strategies in accordance with legal and ethical requirements.

  • Create procedures and programmatic measures, ensuring the consistent application of rules, analysis of data, and development of record-keeping procedures.

Consultation and Partnership Building:

  • Consult, coordinate, and build partnerships with state, federal, and Tribal cultural and natural resource experts.

  • Foster respectful and transparent communication between the agency and affected Tribes.

  • Lead and participate in team meetings, ensuring open communication and coordination of work schedules.

Contract Administration and Management:

  • Assist or lead in the preparation and administration of the Master Contract for Cultural Resource Services using the agency's contracting software and processes.

  • Select contractors and review their credentials and expertise.

  • Monitor and inspect the progress of contractors to ensure the timely completion of work.

About

Chawse’e Archaeology stands as a distinguished tribal archaeology firm, founded, and operated by enrolled members of the Southern Sierra Miwuk Tribe. Our unique perspective, rooted in cultural heritage, sets us apart in the field.