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FSA is actively developing its historic preservation (cultural resources) program. Focus is on creatively meeting the requirements of the law and regulations while also attempting to streamline day-to-day compliance. FSA fulfills its historic preservation responsibilities through section 106 and section 110.
Section 106 is an important tool used by Federal agencies, including FSA, to determine if the agency's actions might adversely impact a historic property. FSA takes cultural resources and historic properties into account prior to approving any application or contract. FSA's handbook, 1-EQ, provides detailed guidance for state and county offices on how to apply the section 106 review and consultation process.
As part of its historic preservation review, FSA identified important resources requiring protection. To fulfill this need, FSA has transferred several inventory properties to other federal and state agencies for long term preservation.
To resolve potential adverse effects on historic properties, FSA has entered into several MOAs with SHPOs and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. Two examples:
1) MOA with MS SHPO and ACHP to protect the viewshed of the Siege of Corinth National Historic Landmark
2) MOA with CO SHPO for the transfer of a property with numerous archaeological sites to the Bureau of Land Management.
Section 110 is the proactive part of the NHPA regulations. It directs agencies to develop comprehensive, practical preservation programs. In addition, section 110(k) prohibits agencies, such as FSA, from providing assistance to any applicant who has purposely, damaged a historic property in order to avoid section 106 review.
Consulting with tribes is an important component of the historic preservation program. FSA working to improve the way it consults with federally recognized Indian tribes. Consultation with tribes takes place at the state and National level.
National Office Contact: Bennett Horter Federal Preservation Officer Farm Service Agency U.S. Department of Agriculture 1400 Independence Ave., SW Mail Stop 0513 Washington, DC 20250 202-690-1164
http://www.cr.nps.gov/local-law/arch_stnds_0.htm http://www.cr.nps.gov/local-law/eo13007.htm Federal Preservation Institute http://www.cr.nps.gov/archeology/public/benefits/index.htm
http://www.cr.nps.gov/nagpra/ http://www.cr.nps.gov/nagpra/ONLINEDB/INDEX.HTM
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