Talent Highlight: Meet Ulteig’s Cultural Resources Team

Ulteig’s Cultural Resources team is a growing force in environmental services. With a team of experts and a wealth of experience, they navigate the complex landscape of cultural resource management across the Midwest and beyond.

The team plays a crucial role in helping federal and state agencies and our clients comply with the National Historic Preservation Act and navigate Tribal Consultation, avoiding costly impacts on development projects. Their work also preserves history and enriches our understanding of the past, benefiting communities and project stakeholders alike.

Meet Ulteig’s Cultural Resources Team

The Cultural Resources team, led by Senior Cultural Resource Specialist Jeani Borchert, holds extensive and diverse backgrounds in anthropology, archaeology and environmental resource management.

Jeani Borchert: Holding an MA in Anthropology/Archeology and formerly with the North Dakota Department of Transportation, Jeani is known for her award-winning work creating an effective tribal consultation process in collaboration with regional Tribes.

Ben Rhodd: With a MS in Environmental Resource Management, Ben is a pioneering Indigenous archaeologist with over 40 years of experience, including national and international projects.

Michele Wiker: Holds a BA in anthropology, with more than 20 years of fieldwork experience throughout the US.

Ricky Hight: Brings a unique perspective with a BA in math and economics, as well as extensive fieldwork experience spanning more than 20 years throughout the US.

Ulteig’s Cultural Resources Capabilities

Our Cultural Resources team works across the four Lifeline Sectors of power, renewables, water and transportation as well as other industries. From the oil and gas industry to building tribal involvement in renewables projects, they are uniquely positioned to deliver outstanding services, including:

Section 106 Compliance: Ensuring development projects do not adversely affect cultural resources while working with industry clients to deliver their projects in a timely and beneficial manner.

NAGPRA Consultation: Proposing projects to museums for Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act compliance.

Tribal Consultation: Building strong relationships with tribes, including training initiatives for the Sisseton Wahpeton Tribe, through traditional cultural specialist training.

As the team grows, we look forward to partnering with stakeholders throughout North America.

The Importance of Cultural Resource Management

The National Historic Preservation Act was established to ensure federal agencies consider the impact of their projects on cultural resources. This legislation arose from a need to protect our historic built environment and prehistory, which were at risk of being lost.

Understanding and valuing our past provides essential perspective. Ulteig’s Cultural Resources team assists companies in navigating these processes efficiently and cost-effectively. Avoiding adverse effects on historic properties is beneficial to all interests including cultural resources and business.

Ultimately, safeguarding cultural resources benefits everyone by maintaining our connection to the greater story of history.

Partner With Ulteig for Expert Cultural Services

Ulteig’s Cultural Resources team stands out as a leader in cultural resource management and tribal consultation, offering unparalleled expertise and commitment to preserving our shared heritage. As they continue to expand their reach and impact, they remain a vital partner for clients seeking to comply with federal law and balance development with cultural preservation.

They also work effectively with clients who are not required to comply with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, but who wish to avoid impacting cultural resources in the development of their projects.

Learn more about Ulteig’s cultural services, and connect with us to discuss how we can support your next project.