Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires federal agencies to consider the potential impact of their proposed projects on historic properties. To fulfill this requirement, agencies enter into Programmatic Agreements (PA) with State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPOs) and other stakeholders. These agreements outline the process for identifying and evaluating historic properties, assessing potential effects, and developing measures to mitigate adverse effects.
A Section 106 Programmatic Agreement template is a useful tool for federal agencies and SHPOs to establish a standard process for compliance with Section 106. It provides a framework for identifying the roles and responsibilities of the signatory parties, the process for consultation and coordination, and the specific procedures for identifying and evaluating historic properties.
The template typically contains several sections, each addressing a different aspect of Section 106 compliance. These include a statement of purpose, definitions of key terms, and an outline of the roles and responsibilities of the signatory parties. The template also includes procedures for consultation with stakeholders, identification and evaluation of historic properties, and mitigation measures.
One important aspect of the template is the criteria for determining the eligibility of properties for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a critical step in the Section 106 process, as properties listed on the Register are eligible for special protections under the law. The template may include specific criteria for evaluating eligibility, such as age, significance, and integrity.
Another important aspect of the Section 106 Programmatic Agreement template is the process for developing and implementing mitigation measures. The template may outline specific types of measures that are appropriate for different types of impacts, such as physical changes to the property, visual impacts, or impacts on cultural traditions. The template may also specify the roles and responsibilities of the signatory parties in implementing these measures, such as funding, monitoring, and reporting.
In summary, a Section 106 Programmatic Agreement template is a valuable tool for federal agencies and SHPOs to ensure consistent and efficient compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The template provides a standard framework for consultation, identification, evaluation, and mitigation of impacts on historic properties. By using the template, agencies and SHPOs can streamline the Section 106 process and reduce the likelihood of delays and disputes.