§ 70-11. Findings and purpose. - North Carolina Statutes

§70‑11.  Findings and purpose.

(a)        The GeneralAssembly finds that:

(1)        Archaeologicalresources on State lands are an accessible and irreplaceable part of theState's heritage;

(2)        These resources areincreasingly endangered because of their commercial attractiveness;

(3)        Existing State lawsdo not provide adequate protection to prevent the loss and destruction of thesearchaeological resources and sites resulting from uncontrolled excavations andpillage; and

(4)        There is a wealth ofarchaeological information which has been legally obtained by privateindividuals for noncommercial purposes and which could voluntarily be madeavailable to professional archaeologists and institutions.

(b)        The purpose of thisArticle is to secure, for the present and future benefit of the people of NorthCarolina, the protection of archaeological resources and sites which are onState lands, excluding highway right‑of‑ways, and to fosterincreased cooperation and exchange of information among governmentalauthorities, the professional archaeological community, Indian Tribalgovernmental authorities and private individuals having collections ofarchaeological resources and data. (1981, c. 904, s. 2.)