National Historic Preservation Act

The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) was enacted in 1966 to establish a program for preserving important historical sites throughout the nation. The NHPA creates the possibility that old buildings, shafts, or other structures at an abandoned mine site may have historical significance.

Section 106 of the act requires federal agencies and other groups to review the National Register of Historic Places, as well as any state historical laws or initiatives, before any demolition or closure work is undertaken. The act also requires federal agencies and other organizations to include the preservation of these structures in their reclamation plans, if necessary, and gives the National Park Service the authority to review plans that involve structures with possible historical significance.

National Historic Preservation Act
http://www.cr.nps.gov/local-law/nhpa1966.htm

Working with Section 106
http://www.achp.gov/work106.html

State Historical Societies
http://www.ncshpo.org/stateinfolist/fulllist.htm