Idaho Cultural Resources Agreement (For Powerline Construction)

• Category: Oil Gas and Minerals - Agreements
• State: Multi-State
• Control #: US-OG-974
• Format: Word; Rich Text

Description

This form is a cultural resources agreement for powerline construction.

Idaho Cultural Resources Agreement for Power line Construction: A Comprehensive Overview In Idaho, the development of power line infrastructure often involves conducting thorough assessments of potential cultural resources to ensure the preservation and protection of historically significant sites. The Idaho Cultural Resources Agreement for Power line Construction is a legally binding agreement between power line construction companies and relevant regulatory agencies, such as the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office (SHOO), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and/or tribal governments. Keywords: Idaho, Cultural Resources Agreement, Power line Construction, Idaho State Historic Preservation Office, Bureau of Land Management, tribal governments 1. Purpose: The Idaho Cultural Resources Agreement for Power line Construction aims to identify, preserve, and mitigate potential adverse impacts to cultural resources during power line construction activities. It serves as a collaborative framework that navigates the responsibilities of the construction company and regulatory agencies in ensuring the preservation and protection of Idaho's cultural heritage. 2. Compliance and Legal Requirements: The agreement ensures compliance with federal and state laws, including the National Historic Preservation Act (NPA), the Idaho State Antiquities Act, and associated regulations. It outlines the specific requirements, processes, and timelines for conducting cultural resource surveys, assessments, and other related activities. 3. Idaho SHOO and BLM Coordination: The agreement establishes the coordination between the Idaho SHOO and the BLM, who work together to evaluate and manage potential cultural resources impacted by power line construction projects. The Idaho SHOO is responsible for reviewing project plans, conducting surveys, determining eligibility for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, and recommending necessary mitigation measures. The BLM facilitates the implementation of these measures on public lands. 4. Tribal Consultation: The agreement recognizes the importance of tribal consultation, incorporating the perspectives and expertise of Native American tribes in the identification and preservation of cultural resources. It ensures that appropriate tribal representatives are engaged throughout the assessment process and that their cultural resources are protected in accordance with tribal laws and traditions. 5. Types of Idaho Cultural Resources Agreements: — Standard Idaho Cultural Resources Agreement: This agreement focuses on power line construction projects in non-tribal, state, or federal lands and involves coordination primarily with the Idaho SHOO and BLM. — Tribal Cultural Resources Agreement: This agreement is specifically tailored for power line projects that intersect with tribal lands or involve tribal resources. It includes tribal governments as key stakeholders in the coordination process, recognizing their tribal laws and traditions. 6. Cultural Resource Mitigation Measures: The agreement outlines the mitigation measures required to address potential adverse impacts to cultural resources. These may include avoiding construction near significant sites, excavation and salvage of artifacts, development of interpretive signage, or other forms of resource management to ensure preservation. In conclusion, the Idaho Cultural Resources Agreement for Power line Construction is a vital framework that ensures responsible power line development while preserving Idaho's rich cultural heritage. Through collaboration among construction companies, regulatory agencies, and tribal entities, this agreement allows for the identification, preservation, and mitigation of potential impacts to cultural resources, fostering sustainable development in the state.