This project funds critically important work to reduce the backlog in museum and archives collections and will improve records management at c o canal national historical park

The National Park Service (NPS) awarded C & O Canal Trust Inc. a Cooperative Agreement totaling $149,400 under the Cultural Resources Management program (CFDA 15.946) on August 18, 2025, with a completion deadline of December 31, 2027. This award funds critical collections management work at C & O Canal National Historical Park in Maryland. The primary deliverables include assessment, processing, arrangement, cataloging, and storage of museum and archives items according to NPS standards. These activities will address the significant backlog in the park's collections while improving overall records management infrastructure.

The project is designed to yield tangible operational and public-facing benefits. By systematically processing the backlog, the award will enhance accountability and conservation of historical materials, while simultaneously improving public access to knowledge about the park's historical resources. As a nonprofit organization with demonstrated expertise in cultural resource stewardship at the national park, C & O Canal Trust Inc. will execute these collections management services in accordance with federal standards and best practices established by the NPS.

Items will be assessed, processed, arranged, cataloged and stored to NPS standards. Addressing the backlog will result in better accountability, better conservation of items, and will improve sharing knowledge about the park with the public.