As part of a multi-year rehabilitation effort, I led the development of standardized assessment tools, works to validate information against archival sources, and interactive dashboards to support historically-sound and data-driven headstone replacement at Chalmette National Cemetery. My work bridged field data collection planning, historic research, and interagency collaboration—creating a scalable model now being adapted for other NPS-managed National Cemeteries.
Scoring Criteria & Survey Development
Before fieldwork began, I worked closely with contractors, park staff, and the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to develop standardized assessment language and criteria for evaluating headstone conditions. Thresholds for damage, legibility, and alignment were calibrated to reflect both the NCA’s replacement standards and the park’s tolerance for historic weathering. We integrated these scoring thresholds, with examples, into the Survey123 form used by the contractor’s technicians.
Archival Validation
After the contractors completed the survey, I served as the data steward—validating and enriching the dataset by associating it with cross-referenced historic datasets. Many inscriptions were worn or illegible, particularly on priority headstones from the cemetery’s early years (est. 1864). I cross-referenced multiple historical sources, including the original burial ledger, a 20th-century foreman’s log, and a later physical survey, to ensure accurate corrections. My Master’s in Library and Information Studies continues to inform how I consult archival materials to support spatial decision-making.
Stakeholder Management
The dashboard provided a shared tool for visualizing survey data and guiding next steps. It was critical in helping us calibrate replacement thresholds in alignment with the contractor’s capacity, and in clearly communicating the scope of need. This transparency helped manage expectations and facilitated consensus across stakeholders.
Ongoing Development & Handoff
After final selections for replacement were made, we continued evolving the dashboard into a long-term management tool for the park. As it became clear that the headstone replacement effort would span multiple years, we worked closely with both the NCA and internal NPS teams to support sustained coordination.
Media Management & Documentation
To meet growing storage needs, I coordinated a bulk transfer of over 37,000 survey photos into the NPS Digital Asset Management (DAM) system. This was the first large-scale DAM import of its kind within our team, and the best practices established through this process are now informing future GIS-linked media workflows. Preparing for eventual handoff to the park, I developed detailed documentation to support continued use and stewardship of the system.
Workflow Automation
In collaboration with the NCA, I also facilitated the logistical process of ordering replacement headstones. To streamline this effort, I created a Python script that automatically populated hundreds of order forms, reducing manual effort and ensuring accuracy at scale.