Native American Heritage Day

Today we celebrate Native American Heritage Day, where we reflect on the rich tapestry of Native American cultures and the meaningful relationships that can be built with tribal communities.

At Ulteig, we recognize this day not only as a moment of reflection, but an opportunity to honor the traditions and histories that shape Native American tribes.

Strong Partnerships

Our commitment to strong partnerships is exemplified by the work of Jeani Borchert, our Senior Cultural Resource Specialist. With over 45 years of experience in archaeology and cultural resource management, Jeani has dedicated her career to engaging with tribal communities. Her previous role at the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) allowed her to facilitate important consultations with regional tribes, building connections that emphasize the value of indigenous perspectives.

Through these engagements, Jeani has cultivated relationships with tribal elders and Historic Preservation Officers, ensuring that their insights inform our cultural resource management practices. This collaborative approach is fundamental to our operations, allowing us to navigate complex projects while honoring the rich traditions of Native American communities.

Ulteig has on staff Ben Rhodd designated as a Lead Cultural Resource Specialist, who is an enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation of Oklahoma with additional familial ties to the Choctaw Tribe of Oklahoma. He has over 46 years of experience as an archaeologist. Moreover, he has conducted ethnographic research, oral interviews, worked in the global geo-political arena with the World Archaeological Congress, and supported indigenous nations in their quest to protect sacred sites, landscapes, and regions. In so doing, he has continually advocated for respectful consultative interaction and open dialogue between the indigenous populations and the archaeological discipline.

Ben has experience in the Southwest high desert environment, the Rocky Mountains, the intermontane area between the Rockies and the Plains e.g., both southern and northern, the Midwest, and Great Lakes Northern Woods. He has been a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for two different Tribes (Rosebud Sioux Tribe and Forest County Potawatomi of Wisconsin) and participates to a limited degree currently with the National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (NATHPO) in Washington, DC. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Ulteigs proactive endeavors within the varied indigenous cultural landscapes, in conjunction with the significance of archaeological sites encountered, where the company has projects and interests.

Cultural Sensitivity

At Ulteig, cultural sensitivity is a cornerstone of our work. We understand the importance of prioritizing tribal concerns, particularly in compliance with Section 106 and NEPA processes.

Our team includes professionals with extensive experience working alongside tribes, enabling us to engage in respectful and effective dialogues. We strive to honor the tribal communities by integrating indigenous knowledge into our projects.

Looking Forward

As we expand our cultural resource services, we seek to continue to strengthen our partnerships with tribal communities. We believe that fostering relationships based on mutual respect and understanding will enhance our ability to serve both our projects and the communities involved.

A Message of Respect

On this Native American Heritage Day, we express our deepest respect for our tribal neighbors and partners. Our ongoing collaborations reflect a commitment to honoring tribal sovereignty and culture. We cherish the opportunity to work alongside Tribal Historic Preservation Officers and elders, ensuring their voices remain integral to our work.

By promoting open dialogue and collaboration, we can honor the rich cultural heritage of Native American communities and build a more inclusive future. If you have a project that would benefit from this approach, connect with us today.