Through coordinated research, education, and partnership programs, we:

	Identify important places from our past
	Foster public understanding of our heritage
	Build consensus about preservation priorities
	Achieve long-term preservation of archaeological sites, buildings, and historic landscapes

The American Southwest and Mexican Northwest encompasses some of the most impressive archaeological sites in North America: Chaco Canyon, Mesa Verde, Casa Grande, Cerro de las Trincheras, and Casas Grandes. The impressive constructions at these sites and many others have long stimulated public interest and have led to the establishment of national, state, and local parks and monuments.

However, it is an illusion to assume that government involvement, even on this relatively large scale, is truly achieving adequate preservation of our cultural heritage. Erosion, urban and rural development, and long-term vandalism take a dramatic toll on our archaeological and historical resources.

The goal of Heritage Southwest is to build a preservation archaeology network, combining research, preservation, and education in ways that will help stem these ongoing losses.

Interested in learning more? Read an in-depth summary of the Heritage Southwest project. (pdf format)