Mission & Goals
The mission of the Network as set forth in the enabling legislation is "... to help stem the rapid deterioration of [the] state's buried past and to expand public interest in archaeology" (S. 267.145(1), Florida Statutes). In the MOA the mission is "... to promote and facilitate the conservation, study, and public understanding of Florida's archaeological heritage through regional centers."
The MOA establishes three primary goals for the Regional Centers:
1. Public Outreach: The Regional Centers are to develop visible public outreach programs, including promotion of archaeological/heritage tourism; partnerships with Florida Anthropological Society chapters and other regional heritage organizations; dissemination of archaeological information to the public; promotion of existing regional heritage events and programs; and promotion of archaeological volunteer opportunities.
2. Assistance to Local Governments: The Regional Centers will support local governments in their efforts to preserve and protect regional archaeological resources by assisting with local archaeological ordinances, comprehensive plan elements, and preservation plans; providing professional archaeological assistance with local archaeological emergencies; and advising local governments on the best management practices for municipally-owned and county-owned archaeological sites.
3. Assist the Division of Historical Resources in its Archaeological Responsibilities: The Regional Centers will assist the DHR in its archaeological responsibilities by promoting Division programs, including grants; by supporting the Division with venues and professional assistance for regional training opportunities; by referring local inquiries to the appropriate Division office or staff member; by distributing literature promulgated by the Division; and by assisting with and promoting the identification and nomination of local archaeological sites to the National Register.