Archeological resources and sites are a potential source of meaningful heritage tourism and education through interpretation. This policy statement provides guidance on how to foster public understanding and appreciation of archaeological resources through heritage education programs and, where appropriate, heritage tourism initiatives, while encouraging their conservation for future generations in a spirit of stewardship.

Under the National Historic Preservation Act, Native Hawaiian organizations are afforded the opportunity to participate in the national historic preservation program. This policy sets forth principles that guide ACHP interaction with Native Hawaiian organizations as it carries out its responsibilities under the NHPA. It also provides guidance to the ACHP and its staff and serves as the foundation for ACHP policies and procedures affecting Native Hawaiian issues.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) has posted updated guidelines for federal agencies about how to report on their progress in identifying, protecting, and using historic properties in their ownership or control, consistent with the requirements of Section 3 of Executive Order 13287 (EO). The next report to the President on federal historic property stewardship will be issued by February 16, 2027. 

Like other federal agencies, the ACHP has special roles and responsibilities governing its relationship with Tribal and Indigenous Peoples. This policy statement outlines ACHP policy regarding its role, responsibilities, and relationships with individual Indian Tribes deriving from the Constitution, treaties, statutes, executive orders, regulations, and court decisions. It specifically ensures the ACHP’s compliance with and recognition of its Tribal consultation responsibilities under certain authorities.

The ACHP supports federal policies and programs that promote use of historic properties to revitalize local communities.

From its earliest days, the ACHP addressed Native American historic preservation issues in Section 106 reviews and has, over time, recognized and increased the role of Indian Tribes and Native Hawaiians in its implementation of the Section 106 review process. Many would, undoubtedly, view this progress as slow and arduous; admittedly, it is a reflection of the times and society in which it has functioned.

Robert Gurley, Director of Advocacy at Preservation Society of Charleston, South Carolina

Carl D. Halbirt, City Archaeologist, St. Augustine, Florida Carl D. Halbirt head shot (2013)--courtesy Daron Dean (The St. Augustine Record)

Welcome to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's (ACHP) Guidance on Section 106 agreement documents. Section 106 agreement documents play a critical role in documenting a federal agency's commitment to carry out and conclude their responsibilities under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) (54 U.S.C. § 306108). This guidance is provided to assist federal agencies, states, Indian tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, applicants, local governments, consulting parties, and the public in developing, implementing, and concluding such agreements.

On January 29, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order addressing the upcoming 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, as well as the creation and protection of public monuments.