Archaeology and Cultural Resources
Cultural Resources are Protected by Law
Cultural resources on federal land are protected by laws including:
National Historic Preservation Act
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act
Archaeological Resources Protection Act
Archaeological Resources Protection Act
It is Illegal to excavate, remove, damage, or otherwise deface any archaeological resource located on public or Indian lands. Damage to archaeological sites in excess of $500 is a felony punishable by up to $250,000 in fines and imprisonment for up to two years for the first offence. All materials, equipment, and vehicles used in the commission of such crimes are subject to forfeiture.