136-42.1. Archaeological objects on highway right-of-way.

The Department of Transportation is authorized to expend highway funds for reconnaissance surveys, preliminary site examinations and salvage work necessary to retrieve and record data and the preservation of archaeological and paleontological objects of value which are located within the right-of-way acquired for highway construction. The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources shall be consulted when objects of scientific or historical significance might be anticipated or encountered in highway right-of-way and a determination made by that Department as to the national, State, or local importance of preserving any or all fossil relics, artifacts, monuments or buildings. The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources shall request advice from other agencies or institutions having special knowledge or skills that may not be available in the said Department for the determination of the presence of or for the evaluation and salvage of prehistoric archaeological or paleontological remains within the highway right-of-way. The Department of Transportation is authorized to contract with the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and to provide funds necessary to perform reconnaissance surveys, preliminary site examination and salvage operation at those sites determined by the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to be of sufficient importance to be preserved for the inspiration and benefit of the people of North Carolina. The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is authorized to enter into contracts and to make arrangements to perform the necessary work pursuant to this section. The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources shall assume possession and responsibility for any and all historical objects and is authorized to enter into agreements with governmental units and agencies thereof, institutions, and charitable organizations for the preservation of any or all fossil relics, artifacts, monuments, or buildings.