Underwater Archeology

New York's extensive network of waterways has resulted in an extraordinary legacy of submerged archeological sites ranging from underwater Native American sites to historic shipwrecks spanning almost 400 years of commerce, technology, and naval history. The SHPO is concerned with the preservation of these resources and works closely with other government agencies, not-for-profit organizations, and academic institutions to identify, evaluate, protect, and interpret significant underwater sites. In addition to the provisions of the State and National Historic Preservation Acts and the Archeological Resources Protection Act, submerged archeological resources in New York State water are protected under Section 233 of the State Education Law. Section 233 states that it is unlawful to disturb archeological resources (including most shipwrecks and underwater archeological sites) on public lands without first obtaining a permit from the New York State Museum.

Shipwreck CADET

Additional research and public education are helping to safeguard underwater archeological resources. For example, recent projects studying pre-glacial occupation sites in tidal areas are providing a better understanding of archeologically sensitive areas in Long Island Sound and the lower Hudson River estuary. A number of not-for-profit organizations are surveying inland waterways to identify historic shipwrecks and nominate significant sites to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Almost 1,000 historic shipwrecks have been identified across New York and are included in a statewide database, which was established to record critical information about these sites. Furthermore, the SHPO routinely reviews state and federally funded dredging, pipeline, cable laying, and other underwater projects to determine if significant archeological sites are likely to be impacted and, when appropriate, to develop appropriate avoidance or mitigation measures. The SHPO also cooperates with regional organizations and other state agencies to create Submerged Heritage Preserves, such as the underwater site of the 1868 steamer CHAMPLAIN II near Westport in Lake Champlain. These preserves offer recreational diving opportunities while assisting in the preservation and interpretation of these sites.