Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (Public Law 89-665 U.S.C. 300101) requires federal agencies take into account the effects of their undertakings on historic properties. It is the responsibility of the federal agency involved in the project to initiate consultation with the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation (VDHP) as the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and fulfill the requirements of Section 106.
For projects that are subject to Section 106 review, VDHP is a consulting party charged with advising and assisting federal agencies in carrying out their Section 106 responsibilities. Project review consists of evaluating the project's potential effects on historic buildings and structures, historic districts, historic landscapes and settings, and known or potential archeological resources. The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties are used to evaluate proposed alterations to historic and cultural resources and make determinations of effect. VDHP will review project information submitted directly to our office by a federal agency, a recipient of federal funding, licenses or permits, or a qualified historic preservation consultant.
Applicants are encouraged to contact VDHP early and often in the project planning process. VDHP can assist in identifying historic and cultural resources in the project area and provide guidance on how to evaluate and avoid potential impacts to those resources. This will ensure protection of historic and cultural resources and save project time and money in the development of your project.
How do I begin consultation with SHPO for my project?
The Section 106 process is directed by the federal Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. For detailed information about the Section 106 process and the review process, please visit the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation website. The online version of A Citizen’s Guide to Section 106 Review is a good source of information about the program.