Section 106 Compliance: Lead the Section 106 compliance process for USDA projects, programs, and activities, ensuring adherence to the requirements of the National Historic Preservation Act and related federal regulations.
Cultural Resource Identification: Conduct cultural resource surveys and assessments to identify historic properties, archaeological sites, and other cultural resources potentially affected by USDA projects.
Consultation Coordination: Coordinate with federal, state, tribal, and local agencies, as well as Native American tribes, preservation organizations, and other stakeholders, to facilitate consultation and collaboration in accordance with Section 106 requirements.
Impact Assessment: Evaluate the potential effects of USDA projects on historic properties and cultural resources, including direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts.
Mitigation Planning: Develop and implement strategies to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects on historic properties and cultural resources, in coordination with project teams, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies.
Documentation and Reporting: Prepare documentation required for Section 106 compliance, including cultural resource surveys, reports, memoranda of agreement (MOAs), and other written materials, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with federal standards.
Public Outreach: Engage with the public and stakeholders to solicit input, share information, and address concerns related to cultural resource management and historic preservation.
Training and Education: Provide training and guidance to USDA staff, project proponents, and consultants on cultural resource laws, regulations, and best practices for compliance.
Quality Assurance: Review cultural resource reports, plans, and studies prepared by consultants and contractors to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Policy Development: Stay informed about changes to cultural resource laws, regulations, and policies, and provide input to USDA leadership on emerging issues and best practices in historic preservation and cultural resource management.