We Do

Sketch by Hans Honregger.

Environmental Assessment

Heritage Research Associates Inc. performs the cultural heritage component of environmental assessment. Our job is to investigate the impact of proposed change upon our knowledge of the past, its lessons, its representation, and the tangible continuity embedded in our environment. If we do our job properly, our work will ensure that valuable cultural heritage resources survive and are enhanced to continue to benefit future generations. Cultural heritage assessment is not an end, but rather a planning and decision-making tool.

In Canada, cultural heritage must be examined as a part of environmental impact and assessment review before development activity is undertaken. Provincial and federal government laws and policies require such an assessment take place. The process allows an opportunity for responsible consideration. Decisions about how we shape the world we live in deserve to be made with full knowledge of what our choices imply.

Most Canadian jurisdictions have established a standard for the type of assessment they require. This can range from shallow resource identification and inventory to an in-depth comparative examination of known resources designed to pinpoint their heritage value.

Our own associates perform the historical, architectural history and cultural landscape segments of such evaluation. We also have long-standing working relationships with experienced archaeologists when an archaeological component is required.

Who uses our service?
National, provincial, territorial and municipal government agencies across Canada responsible for heritage, and historic property. Engineering firms preparing environmental assessments from a broad range of perspectives. Planners, developers, individuals and corporate owners attempting plan developments that will be approved, or to fast-track the assessment process. Lawyers involved in environmental assessment hearings.

Why call on us?

We are familiar with cultural heritage assessment regulations across Canada. We have, in fact, helped to develop some of the standards used. We are experienced in preparing the demanding, often detailed, reports required for cultural heritage resource assessment. We will address necessary specifications well. We approach any planning project with a flexible repertoire of tools and a secure analytical framework for heritage resource value identification. We have a broad knowledge of the past and can interpret it so that understanding provides a successful basis for planning. If required (and this is rare if we have been involved in the planning process) we are credible expert witnesses.