Passed in 1966, the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) is the nation’s premier statute protecting archaeological sites and other historic places and buildings. Limited in scope to mainly governmental actions, the NHPA is nonetheless one of the key tools available for preservationists. This book is designed by one of the leading experts in governmental preservation actions to steer citizens in its use to achieve specific preservation goals. Since the NHPA is often ignored by governmental agencies and developers alike, this guide explains the law for the layman and how it can be utilized.
King also explains the quirky role of the National Register of Historic Places and the importance of consultation in stopping “progress.” Much of this action centers on section 106 of the NHPA and King describes the process any one can use to protect historic properties. It’s a handy volume for those of us interested in saving the past.