This research addresses the need for a non-contact, non-destructive methodology for monitoring changes in configuration and material condition of wooden structures constructed in Grand Canyon National Park by the Navajo and Havasupai Native American Tribes. Beginning in the late 19th century, Navajo and Havasupai family groups lived in seasonal community camps along the south rim of the Grand Canyon. During the 1950s, the National Park Service relocated both tribes from the Grand Canyon National Park leaving behind many different types of abandoned Native American wooden structures in settlement camps throughout the Park landscape. As part of this research, two methods have been investigated and developed for monitoring the structural engagement and fixity and condition of these structures. First, a photographic survey method is described that provides a technique to detect changes in the engagement and fixity of the wooden structural forked pole primary members. Second, Infrared Thermography is evaluated as a potential method to detect core deterioration in the wood forked pole primary members. This research presents the results of the proposed methods using models and sample materials under controlled interior conditions as well as the results of field testing in July, 2012.
