Why do we protect artifacts?

The stretch of the Columbia River that makes up Grant PUD’s project territory is rich with artifacts from the Wanapum and other Native American groups that traveled along the river and made it their home. The shoreline’s prehistoric and historic archaeological sites, isolated artifacts, archaeological districts, structures, engineering features, landscapes and traditional cultural properties are all protected by state and federal laws. Grant PUD and the Wanapum take the protection of these sites and artifacts very seriously.

Laws

In Washington, archaeological sites and Native American graves are protected from known disturbance by a variety of state and federal laws. Federal law applies to all federal and Native American lands and Washington State law applies to all other lands. The following is a list of existing laws regulating archaeological sites:

Selected Federal Laws on Archaeology:

• Archaeological Resource Protection Act of 1979 (pdf)
• Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (pdf)
• American Antiquities Act of 1906
• National Historic Preservation Act (pdf)
• Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974 (pdf)

Washington State laws on Archaeology:

• Executive Order 05-05
• Guidance to EO 05-05 (pdf) 
• FAQ EO 05-05 (pdf) 
• Indian Graves and Records (RCW 27.44)
• Archaeological Sites and Resources (RCW 27.53)
• Archaeological Excavation and Removal Permit (WAC 25-48)
• Abandoned and Historic Cemeteries and Historic Graves (RCW 68.60)
• Registration of Historic Archaeological Resources on State-Owned Aquatic Lands (WAC 25-46)
• Aquatic Lands - In General (RCW 79.90.565)
• Archaeological Site Public Disclosure Exemption (RCW 42.56.300)
• Discovery of Human Remains (RCW 27.44)
• Guidance to RCW 27.44 (pdf)