Montana Geothermal Cultural Resource Assessment(11-MT)

Typically, early consultation and close coordination with the Montana State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is necessary to prevent the inadvertent disruption of a historical site.

If heritage property or paleontological remains (hereafter “cultural resources”) are discovered on the project site, developers must comply with Montana state law. The discovery of cultural resources may require obtaining a permit and providing public notice and notice to Indian Tribes. Heritage property and paleontological remains are defined in Section 22-3-421 MCA. If the developer discovers cultural resources on any lands owned by the state, the developer must promptly report the presence of cultural resources to the SHPO and the MDNRC and take all reasonable steps to ensure preservation of the cultural resources. MCA 22-3-435. Upon a cultural resource discovery, the MDNRC will consult with the SHPO and determine whether it is necessary to prepare an antiquities inventory for the project area. After preparing an antiquities inventory (if required), the MDNRC considers the potential project effects and may require mitigation measures or excavation in order for the project to continue.

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Determine Which State and Federal Permits Apply

Use this overview flowchart and following steps to learn which federal and state permits apply to your projects.