Archaeological survey tends to fall into one of two categories: Archaeological Inventory or Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA). The aim of an inventory is to discover and record archaeological sites in a given area while the goal of an impact assessment is to identify, record, and manage archaeological sites located in areas that are scheduled for development. Over the past 10 years Norcan completed a variety of archaeological inventories that not only enhanced the archaeological record but has assisted it’s clients in achieving integrated resource management.

Overviews consist of a comprehensive archival and database review of a region to determine risk of impacting archaeological sites. Norcan’s 25 years of on the ground knowledge of northern and central BC and our unparalleled trail data combines with information obtained from the Archaeology Branch, orthophoto and lidar maps, and ethnographic research to provide our clients risk assessments and project recommendations to avoid impacting sites. An inclusive working relationship with our First Nation partners in BC allows us to sensitively address their concerns and provide recommendations for the management of their Traditional Use and cultural needs.

A Cultural Heritage overview and database for B.C. Parks:

• In 2002 NORCAN completed an inventory of the most comprehensive archaeological trail database for central and northern British Columbia.

Archaeological Inventories of the Prince George Resource District:

• In 2002 NORCAN completed a Data GAP Analysis for the Prince George Forest District that includes a detailed review of all archaeological surveys that have been conducted within the forest district, as well as reviews of ethnographical and historical information with the aim of providing strategies for the creation of an Archaeological Predictive Model.
• In 2002 NORCAN completed a cultural heritage overview for the Prince George Forest District. The project detailed in a GIS format all known cultural feature within the district.
• In 2000 NORCAN completed an archaeological inventory of the Alexander Mackenzie Heritage Trail within the Prince George Forest District.

Archaeological Inventories of the Nadina Resource District:

• In 2001 NORCAN conducted an archaeological inventory of the Nechako Canyon region within the Vanderhoof Forest District for Plateau Forest Products Ltd. The purpose of this inventory was to draw conclusions and make recommendations relating to the Vanderhoof Potential Model.
• In 2000 NORCAN completed an historical review of Northern White Sturgeon use and numbers in the Nechako River Watershed for the BC Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks, Omineca /Peace.

Fort St James Natural Resource District:

• In 2000 NORCAN completed an archaeological inventory of the Cunningham Lake operating area within the Fort St James Forest District for Stuart Lake Lumber Ltd.. The purpose of this inventory was to facilitate the proposed planning activities in the area.
• In 1999-2000 NORCAN completed a statistically based archaeological inventory throughout the Fort St. James Forest District for Canadian Forest Products Ltd. The purpose of this inventory was to develop a set of recommendations to base changes to the Districts Predictive Model.
• In 1998 NORCAN completed a cultural heritage overview for the Fort St James Forest District. This overview addressed and mapped all known cultural features within the district. These features included archaeological sites, historic and pre-historic trails as well as known aboriginal traditional use areas.