The report is distributed to the client, lead agency, reviewing agency (usually includes the State Historic Preservation Office housed at OPR&HP), and interested parties for evaluation. The lead and reviewing agencies may or may not agree with the recommendation made by the archaeologist in the report. They may also request additional information, if the work presented is incomplete or not in compliance with the Standards. This could delay the permitting process, so it is important that the archaeologist guarantees compliance with the Standards.
How long does it take to review a Phase I Report?
You can expect to wait a minimum of 30 days. The amount of time depends on the complexity of the project and whether additional information is needed.
What happens if a site is found during Phase I investigations?
If a prehistoric or historic site is found, the archaeologist could
recommend either redesign of the project to avoid the site thought to be
eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, or a Phase II site
evaluation to determine if the site meets criteria for nomination to the
National Register. Not all sites will be eligible but if a site can be
avoided with little or no impact to the project, then avoidance can preserve
the site and save time in the permitting process.