In the last 30 years, approximately one-quarter of Canada's pre-1920 building stock has been demolished.  Currently, a significant number of historic properties sit vacant or under-utilized.  In response to this situation, the Government of Canada, in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, developed the Historic Places Initiative (HPI), the first national program designed to conserve Canada's historic places.

• Foster a greater appreciation of historic places; and
• Strengthen Canada's capacity to take appropriate action to conserve and maintain the integrity of our historic places.

HPI includes two conservation tools.  The Canadian Register of Historic Places (CRHP) is a searchable, on-line listing of formally recognized historic places across Canada.  The CRHP is an invaluable tool for tourists, students, researchers, municipal planners and others who are seeking accurate and informative information about Canada's history.

The second tool, the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada, is a nationwide benchmark of conservation principles and practices to safeguard our historic places and reintegrate them in community life.  More information about the Standards and Guidelines may be found by clicking here.

In 2003, Saskatchewan joined the pan-Canadian HPI to help fulfil the program's mandate to build a culture of heritage conservation across Canada.

Through the Heritage Resources Branch of Saskatchewan Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport, a team of heritage professionals are working to realize Saskatchewan's objectives for the program. These objectives are to:

• Nominate Saskatchewan's 800-plus Provincial and Municipal Heritage Properties, Provincial Historic Parks, and Historic Sites for listing on the Canadian Register of Historic Places;
• Encourage local governments to use the Standards and Guidelines to manage historic resources in their community; and
• Build awareness of our province's historic places and the conservation tools of HPI among Saskatchewan's residents.

These objectives are being met through a variety of activities.  HPI team members are working with municipalities and property owners to prepare Statements of Significance for each of Saskatchewan's designated historic places.  These statements form the focal point of the listings that are being placed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places.  As well, team members are meeting and collaborating with a variety of individuals, groups, organizations and government agencies across the province to promote the economic, environmental and cultural benefits of heritage conservation, and the use of the HPI tools.

For more information about Saskatchewan's activities, please call (306) 787-8600 or email historicplaces@cyr.gov.sk.ca.