APPENDIX 3 - A Selection of Value Indicators for Level II Archaeological Resources

Archaeological resources that are directly related to the reason of designation of a National Historic Site are Level I. Archaeological resources that are not related to the reason for designation or that are part of a non-designated site are treated as Level II resources until evaluation proves otherwise.

Section 2.2.2.1 of the CRM Policy provides the following direction:

Parks Canada will establish and apply criteria to determine which resources under its jurisdiction are Level II. A resource may be included in this category by virtue of its historical, aesthetic or environmental qualities. Criteria will also give consideration to such factors as regional or local association; or provincial, territorial or municipal designations.

The diversity of cultural landscapes, of cultural contexts and the nature of the resources, make it difficult to design criteria applicable across the country. Archaeologists in Parks Canada Service Centres use a range of criteria to evaluate the archaeological resources. However, the archaeologist needs benchmarks that will help define the values that have to be assessed for preparing CISs and for all the actions related to preserving and presenting the resources.

The following provides some suggested value indicators for Level II archaeological resources. Archaeological resources could be assessed through one or more of these indicators. The evaluation of archaeological resources is best accomplished with a multi-disciplinary team.

• The physical archaeological evidence such as features, structures and objects bears witness to past human activities through its manufacture and use.

• The archaeological context contributes to the value of the resource and its integrity can be measured.

• The integrity of the resource, related resources or resource environment is not compromised.

• The resource adds value to the sum of the archaeological resources found at the site or area.

Associative and Symbolic Value

• The archaeological resource conveys a spirit of place, person, event or time. 
  
  

• The resource relates to local oral tradition and/or traditional knowledge.
  
  

• The resource has spiritual or religious value. 
  
  

• The resource is associated with funerary practices. 
  
  

• The resource is associated with a Classified or Recognized Federal Heritage Building.              

Scientific and Research Value

• The resource evolved through many periods in history.     

• The resource is unique, rare in an international, national, regional or local context.

• The resource is representative of a class, a type, a function, or a theme.

• The resource is within or was derived from an archaeological context.

• The resource is the sole source of information on a site or a particular theme.

• The resource contributes to the understanding of human occupancy and behaviour.

• The resource illustrates the relationship between human beings and their environment.

• The resource has interpretive and presentation potential.

• The resource contributes to a collection.

Public Value

• The resource plays a role in the public understanding of heritage.

• The resource adds value to educational and presentation programs.