Why is the “area of potential effects” (APE) important in identifying eligible archaeological sites?
The APE is the geographic area(s) within which an undertaking may directly or indirectly cause alterations in the character or use of historic properties, if any such properties exist. The area of potential effects is influenced by the scale and nature of the undertaking and may be different for different kinds of effects caused by the undertaking [36 CFR § 800.16(d)].1
Because the APE defines the geographic limits of federal agency responsibility for purposes of Section 106 review, archaeological survey necessary to identify and evaluate historic properties is carried out within its boundaries. Within the APE, however, the level of effort may vary considerably depending on such factors as anticipated effects and prior ground disturbance.
- (d) Area of potential effects means the geographic area or areas within which an undertaking may directly or indirectly cause alterations in the character or use of historic properties, if any such properties exist. The area of potential effects is influenced by the scale and nature of an undertaking and may be different for different kinds of effects caused by the undertaking.