PROJECT ABSTRACT
Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit
(Cooperative Agreement # H1200-04-0002)
Park: Mesa Verde National Park
Project Title: Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum Lobby and Desk Rehabilitation
(PMIS#: 116721)
Funding Amount: $26,000
CPCESU Partner Institution: San Juan Institute of Natural and Cultural Resources
(SJINCR) at Fort Lewis College (FLC) – Colorado Plateau (CP-CESU)
Principal Investigator :
Dr. Catherine Ortega, Director
San Juan Institute of Natural and Cultural Resources
Fort Lewis College, Durango, CO 81301
970-247-7393
Email: Ortega_C@fortlewis.edu
Co-Investigator:
Brenda Martin
San Juan Institute of Natural and Cultural Resources
Fort Lewis College, Durango, CO 81301
970-247-7393
Email: bulabrenda@gmail.com
NPS Key Official:
Tessy Shirakawa
Chief of Visitor Services
Mesa Verde National Park
970-529-4628
Email: Tessy_Shirakawa@nps.gov
Start Date: September 15, 2007
End Date: March 1, 2010
Abstract:
Description
6/30/2016
401285787
2:23:10 PM
Replace the outdated orientation displays around the Chapin Mesa Archeological
Museum information desk and lobby. The current exhibits range from 45 years old to 5
years old, and their interpretive messages are outdated and inaccurate. The road map does
not show key features such as the Wetherill Mesa or Far View areas which have been
open to the public since 1973.
The wall displays will be replaced with accurate maps, professional photographs and
graphics explaining modern-day tour routes. Additionally, the new exhibits will address
accessibility and safety concerns and enhanced visitor opportunities. New displays will
focus on the multi-million dollar post-fire rehab that has taken place in the park over the
last 10 years and a resource protection exhibit explaining the importance of "leaving the
past in place." By clearly explaining that "it is not what you find, but what you find out,"
we can impress upon the visitors the importance of maintaining site integrity by
minimizing impacts and not removing artifacts or pot sherds from any cultural site.
Justifications
The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum has undergone over $1,000,000 in upgrades in
2004-2005. For the first time an HVAC system has been installed to provide climate
control for visitors and curatorial artifacts. Simultaneously, the museum electrical system
was upgraded, and the interior repainted. In February 2006, the historical dioramas were
be relit with fiber optics and in 2007 the firepits and fire hearths were illuminated with
flickering lights. It is critical that this area be rehabbed to handle and orient park visitors.
The existing information desk does not meet ADA compliance for visitors or employees.
Measurable Results
The out-dated, inaccurate exhibits will be replaced with new accurate maps and legible
photos. The exhibit will contain appropriate, up-to-date and accurate information and
orientation. As a result, visitor satisfaction, understanding, and appreciation for the
resource will be enhanced. Without proper visitor orientation, the safety of the visitor and
the resource are compromised.
Keywords (see list at http://home.nau.edu/cpcesu/projectplanning.asp).
6/30/2016
401285787
2:23:10 PM