Partners in Preservation (PiP) – Strengthening DoW’s Cultural Resource Management
The Department of War (DOW) Partners in Preservation (PiP) program establishes a dedicated Cultural Resource Management (CRM) support network within the DoW, modeled after successful natural resource networks.
By leveraging local, regional, and national networks, including Military Services, Federal and state agencies, and external partners, PiP enhances mission readiness, optimizes limited resources, and strengthens cultural resource management efforts at every level to protect uninterrupted access to training and operational lands.
Our Vision
To establish a premier stewardship network that brings together Military Services, Federal, tribal, and state agencies, and expert partners to support the Department’s mission requirements. This network will:
- Maximize the effectiveness of military installation resources.
- Strengthen cultural resource management locally, regionally, and nationally.
- Serve as a clearinghouse of expertise, connecting with professionals across the conservation and preservation field to reduce mission delays and compliance‑driven disruptions.
Our Goal
To formalize a cooperative network of cultural resource professionals, including military personnel, academic institutions, research organizations, tribal archaeology programs, and non-profits, united in the mission of Partnering in Preservation to safeguard cultural and natural resources of national importance while ensuring installations remain fully mission capable.
Objectives
Build a Community of Practice for Preservation
Foster collaboration among DoW installations, cultural resource professionals, and external partners. Promote knowledge sharing, training, and coordination to enhance cultural resource management across the Department. Provide opportunities for volunteers to contribute their expertise, mentor emerging professionals, and help shape the future of military cultural resource management in direct support of operational readiness.
Integrating Natural & Cultural Resource Management
Recognize the interconnectedness of cultural and natural resources. Highlight Cultural Keystone Species and cultural places as critical components of both conservation and stewardship. Promote the identification and stewardship of cultural landscapes, ensuring that DoW land management strategies respect and incorporate historical and cultural significance.
Advancing Technical Capabilities & Innovation
Develop and provide science-driven tools, services, and research to support DoW cultural resource management. Facilitate pilot projects on military installations that benefit both the DoW and the public and reduce compliance timelines that could otherwise delay mission‑essential activities.
Strengthening External Partnerships
Build strategic alliances with tribal communities, cultural resource experts, and external organizations. Ensure a comprehensive, inclusive approach to cultural stewardship that anticipates regulatory risk and protects long‑term access to training lands.
Why Join PiP?
Whether you’re a natural resource professional working at the intersection of conservation and cultural stewardship, navigating cultural compliance on a busy installation or looking to streamline mission support, PiP offers a network built around your unique challenges and a platform to multiply your impact.
- Strengthen Mission Readiness. Access a network of cultural resource professionals and external partners who help you navigate compliance requirements, reduce project delays, and keep your installation mission capable by preventing cultural‑resource conflicts that could halt training or construction.
- Do More With Less. Tap into shared tools, funding opportunities, and partner resources that extend the reach of your program without adding burden to your installation’s budget or staff.
- Grow Your Expertise. Stay current with the latest cultural resource management techniques, technologies, and policy developments – and bring those capabilities directly back to your installation.
- You’re Not Alone. Connect with fellow DoW CRM professionals who understand the unique challenges of managing cultural resources within a military environment, and build relationships that last beyond any single assignment and strengthen the Department’s collective mission assurance posture.
PiP is shaping the future of cultural resource management within the DoW. Join us in strengthening management efforts while supporting mission readiness and ensuring the warfighter can train without constraint.
To join PiP, send a message with your name and preferred contact information here: https://www.denix.osd.mil/pip/contact-poc/