Historic and Cultural Resource Protection

Historic and Cultural Resource Protection

These toolkits are designed to equip municipalities and other stakeholders with valuable resources for advancing natural and cultural resource conservation, enhancing recreation and transportation systems, and fostering resilience.

Each tool includes an overview that outlines the relevant issues it addresses, a guide on how to implement it, its regional applicability, and a list of case studies. Some toolkits include an additional technical bulletin that provides more detailed guidance such as a step-by-step implementation process and supplementary resources for deeper exploration. 


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Salvaged construction materials

Deconstruction and Salvage

Construction and demolition of waste is a major contributor to landfills, generating millions of tons of discarded material each year. Traditional demolition practices squander reusable resources, release harmful toxins, and diminish the historic character of communities.

Deconstruction and Salvage Toolkit.pdf


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An adult and child looking at an interpretive sign with a fenced meadow in the background.

Heritage Interpretation Plans

Heritage Interpretation Plans provide a structured approach to conveying information and stories about heritage sites to those visiting. At a regional level, they identify ways to connect and organize sites thematically, so the area presents a cohesive and engaging story.

Document

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A historic stone house

Historic Resource Survey 

Historic Resource Surveys inventory and assess historic resources in an area. They are essential for informed decision-making in preservation, development, and community planning by integrating valuable historical resources into local planning efforts.


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An aerial view of a historic house with solar panels on the roof

Historic Resource Disaster Planning and Climate Resilience

Early development along waterways makes many of Pennsylvania’s historic communities, especially vulnerable to flooding and other hazards like wind, earthquakes, heat, and drought that threaten cultural resources.