The U.S Army Corps of Engineers preserves and protects cultural resources and historic properties by complying with the National Historic Preservation Act, Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, Archaeological Resources Protection Act, and other federal laws and executive orders. We work closely with federal, state, local, and tribal partners to ensure that cultural resources and historic properties are considered early in project planning and that adverse effects are avoided, minimized, or mitigated. We are also responsible for the proper curation of archaeological collections and the repatriation of human remains.

Cultural resources and historic properties can include historically significant buildings, sites, objects, structures, districts, and properties that have religious and cultural significance to Indian tribes. For the Portland District, this includes everything from Bonneville Dam to pile dike systems to petroglyph panels to so much more.

For additional information about tribal consultation and trust resources, visit the Portland District Tribal Relationships page. 

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires Federal agencies consider the effects of undertakings on historic properties. The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), tribes, other interested parties, and the public assist the Portland District in identifying historic properties and reducing or avoiding any adverse effects that might result from the project.

Projects that require Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, and Section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) coordination or permits might require cultural resource coordination and consideration. Please visit the Portland District Regulatory webpage for additional information and guidance.

Archaeological Resources Protection Act Permits

For information related to Archaeological Resources Protection Act Permits, please visit the Portland District Real Estate website.