U.S. Corps of Engineers reminds everyone any archaeological resources on federal lands are protected
Officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District would like to remind everyone that it is against the law to remove artifacts from public lands.
Artifacts, also known as archaeological resources, on federal lands are protected resources. Digging for or picking up surface artifacts within and archaeological site is illegal.
Archaeological resources are material remains of past human life or activities. These resource can include arrowheads, pottery, bottles, beads, rocks utilized as tools, and any other objects made and used by people.
Law covering removing artifacts from the public lands inlace the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, which protects any item of archeological interest that is more than 100 years old, and Title 36 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, which deals with theft or destruction of public property.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District is asking all visitors to help protect and preserve these irreplaceable resources, and to keep a watchful eye out for artifact hunters and report such illegal activities. In addition, the Tulsa District has started utilizing a variety of resources for detection, including video surveillance, foot patrols and law enforcement.
If you see someone illegally digging or picking up artifacts on Corps property, please contact the project office nearest to your location. Project office contact information can be found on the internet at www.swt.usace.arm.mil.
Any information you can provide such as location of the activity, number and description of persons involved, car make or model, etc. can be helpful. However, we ask that you do not attempt to intervene or approach individuals participating in illegal activities. Please contact the USACE project office in the area of concern.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District thanks everyone for their cooperation in preserving out heritage and history and assisting in preserving our natural resources for future generations.