MML March/April 2024 Review Magazine

ARCHAEOLOGICAL PROTECTION

“ Under federal law, municipal governments have a responsibility to withhold [archaeological] site information. ”

With these steps, the archaeological resources of a community can endure for future generations. For additional questions about cultural resources and archaeology, please contact the SHPO and visit https://www.miplace.org/ historic-preservation/. Scott Slagor is the cultural resource protection manager at the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office. You may contact him at 517-285-5120 or SlagorS2@michigan.gov. Amy Krull is the federal projects archaeologist at the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office. You may contact her at 517-285-4211 or KrullA@michigan.gov.

of Information Act, which exempts the dissemination of archaeological site locations. Archaeological reports, mapping, and other documents containing sensitive information should be filed with a cover sheet indicating that the document is “Confidential” or “Restricted.” Subsequent report pages should be watermarked or stamped to reflect their confidential nature. These documents should not be included in publicly distributed information, project bids, or in electronic retrieval systems without restricting access to specific users. Additional proactive steps that local governments can take to balance community transparency and risk include initiating consultation with the SHPO and THPOs. Consult with the SHPO to develop an Unanticipated Discoveries Plan to ensure preparedness if archaeological sites are accidentally encountered. The SHPO has template plans to make this an easy process. Communities can also consult with the SHPO on internal measures to flag sensitive areas without exposing sensitive data. Additionally, forming a relationship with the THPO whose ancestral lands are in your community is an invaluable connection. To identify the appropriate THPOs to contact, reach out to the Michigan Anishinabek Cultural Preservation and Repatriation Alliance (MACPRA). dissemination of privileged information about archaeological sites, including locations, character, and ownership. ” “ Local governments can take simple steps to protect sensitive data by restricting the

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