AVIATION ARCHAEOLOGY

Aviation Archaeology

Aviation Archaeology

American Archaeology Laws In General And Aviation Archaeology

Starting in the mid 1960's, the United States government began to implement a series of laws to protect historical and archaeological sites because of their historical significance. Increasing interest from the general public also figured heavily in the decision to preserve sites. From 1966 to 2000 many laws were passed and subsequently amended that pertained to the preservation and excavation of archaeological sites. (Mireles 2006:35-58)

The National Historic Preservation Act (1966) was the first such law to be passed. It was enacted in 1966, and amended in 1970 and 1980. This law called for the establishment of a National Register of Historic Places that would include significant districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects in American history, architecture, archaeology, and culture. These objects could have significance in a local, state, or national manner. Federal agencies with either direct or indirect control over proposed federal, federally assisted, or federally licensed undertakings needed to examine the projects for impacts to significant resources before funds or licenses are issued. The agencies consider the effect the project will have on the proposed district, site, building, etc. or is already included in the National Register of Historic Places. The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, whose members are appointed by the President, then looks upon all of these decisions. Each federal agency is held responsible for the historic properties that they own or have an interest in. They are instructed to find, take note of, and nominate sites or objects into the National Register. It is their job to also protect and use the properties in the best possible way they can. (Veronico 2003:22-45)

Another law passed in 1966 was the Department of Transportation Act (1966). This law stated that the Secretary of Transportation could not approve any project that would use land that was on the National Register of Historic Places. The only way using historic land would be possible would be if there was no feasible alternative, and if the planning of such a project would minimize harm done to the land. The Department of Transportation Act applies to all activities of the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Coast Guard, The Urban Mass Administration, and the Federal Railroad Administration. Some properties that are not on the National Register, such as local landmarks, are also covered in this legislation. (Mireles 2006:35-58)

Protection of the environment is an issue that has been helped by federal laws. One law is the Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment Executive Order (1971). Every Executive Branch agency is required to make a list of cultural resources that they are trustees of. They also need to protect and preserve their cultural resources and make sure the agency's activities contribute to this preservation. These resources are considered as archaeological, architectural, and historical properties. The National Environmental Policy Act (1969) is another law which helps regulate activities that affect the environment. Federal agencies have to write an environmental impact statement (EIS) for all ...