New Mexico Archaeological Council Awards Heinrich

The New Mexico Archaeological Council commended Councilor Heinrich for preserving archaeological sites in Albuquerque, with an annual award. Heinrich sponsored the Preservation of Archaeological Sites Ordinance, which passed unanimously by the City Council in September, 2007. He was presented with the award at the New Mexico Archaeological Council's annual conference.

Archaeologists were enthusiastic to honor Heinrich, because they say this type of protection has been needed for over 20 years.

"Albuquerque is a wonderful place to live and work. One of the reasons why the city is so special is because of our rich history and our varied culture. The ordinance will not stop development but strikes a balance between what we can learn about our past and how much it will cost to acquire this knowledge," Dave Cushman, an archaeologist and planner with the nonprofit group SRI Foundation.

Within the city's limits, there are hundreds of archaeological sites spanning the last 10,000 years of human history. Earlier this year, the issue caught local media attention because crews adding new athletic fields at Bosque Preparatory School on Albuquerque's northwest side uncovered a centuries-old Pueblo Indian site dating back to A.D. 1300 to 1400. Also, in August construction crews excavating rock for a waterline to the new northwest high school damaged many artifacts demonstrating proof of a Folsom culture presence in the Albuquerque area. Heinrich's ordinance ensures that the City's archaeologist will review and approve subdivision plats, site plans, and master plans in areas where significant archaeological resources are present in order to ensure the preservation of those resources.

"Albuquerque is growing and new construction is a fact of life. However I believe we must protect our heritage as we grow. This ordinance prevents both inadvertent and willful destruction of priceless archaeological resources," said Heinrich.

Heinrich brought together a broad group of interests to craft the legislation, including local archaeological organizations, the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties, the Homebuilders Association of New Mexico, and the Public Service Company of New Mexico.

Heinrich is pictured with archaeologists David Cushman and Carol Condie.