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ACHP Cultural Resources Data Platform

This page provides a single, stable reference point for NATHPO members to track the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s (ACHP) development of a Cultural Resource Data Platform. It is intended to help members understand what the platform is, why it matters for Tribes and THPOs, and how NATHPO is engaging as this effort develops.

What the ACHP Proposed. At the February 12, 2026 ACHP Business Meeting, ACHP introduced a proposed Cultural Resource Data Platform as part of broader federal permitting technology initiatives. The platform is described as an AI-supported system intended to improve early project planning by making information about historic properties more accessible, helping project planners avoid conflicts, and improving overall permitting efficiency.

Planned capabilities include:

  • Retrieving cultural resources and geospatial data from multiple systems
  • Generating project-level research reports to inform early planning
  • Using visual simulation tools to predict potential impacts
  • Supporting route or site optimization to avoid impacts

ACHP has framed the effort as addressing a core challenge: balancing the speed of infrastructure development with consideration of effects to historic places.

Why This Matters for Indian Tribes and THPOs. This effort raises significant considerations for Tribal governments. Cultural resources information is not simply technical data. It is often sensitive, place-based knowledge tied to cultural identity, spiritual practices, and Tribal sovereignty.

A centralized, AI-enabled system that aggregates or interprets cultural resources information presents risks if not carefully structured, including:

  • Exposure or misuse of sensitive information
  • Loss of Tribal control over cultural knowledge
  • Substitution of automated tools for direct Tribal consultation
  • Misinterpretation of Indigenous Knowledge outside of Tribal context

At the same time, Tribes and THPOs have consistently emphasized the need for earlier engagement, better information, and more efficient federal processes. Any technological approach must be shaped by Tribal input from the outset.

Where the Process Stands. This effort is in an early development phase. ACHP is conducting a data landscape survey and working toward a proof of concept within approximately six months, followed by pilot testing and refinement.

ACHP has established a working group of State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPOs) to inform development. Following engagement with NATHPO leadership, ACHP has indicated an interest in incorporating Tribal expertise into that process.

Next Steps (as outlined by ACHP):

  • Data landscape survey
  • Proof of concept (~6 months)
  • Pilot system testing and refinement
  • Soft launch (~15 months)
  • Public availability (~18 months)

NATHPO Actions and Engagement. NATHPO is engaging this effort as an ACHP member while prioritizing Tribal perspectives and concerns.

NATHPO leadership met with ACHP on April 2, 2026 to:

  • Better understand the platform and its intended scope
  • Raise concerns regarding Tribal data sovereignty and sensitive information
  • Emphasize the need for meaningful Tribal consultation
  • Reinforce that technology must not substitute for Tribal expertise or government-to-government engagement

NATHPO has also worked to identify THPO participation in ACHP’s working group to ensure Tribal perspectives inform development directly.

In addition, NATHPO is advancing a panel discussion at the annual NATHPO conference to elevate this issue, share information broadly, and provide a forum for Tribal voices to inform the direction of the platform.

Key Considerations and Emerging Issues.

  • Tribal data sovereignty and governance of cultural information
  • Protection of sensitive and confidential information
  • Appropriate use and limitations of AI in cultural resource contexts
  • Ensuring technology supports, rather than replaces, Tribal consultation
  • Recognition of Indigenous Knowledge as Tribal expertise
  • Data access controls, agreements, and system governance
  • Alignment with NHPA and existing confidentiality protections

What Tribes and THPOs Can Do Now.

  • Monitor developments and review available materials
  • Begin internal discussions on data governance and cultural information protocols
  • Share input with NATHPO on priorities and concerns

Documents and Resources.

For questions or to provide input, please contact Ira L. Matt, NATHPO Executive Director, Indigenous Diplomacy and Federal Relations, at Ira@NATHPO.org.

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