(a) A division of archaeology is hereby established in the department of environment and conservation, to be headed by a person who will be designated as the state archaeologist.
Terms Used In Tennessee Code 11-6-101
Artifacts: means all relics, specimens or objects of an historical, prehistorical, archaeological or anthropological nature which may be found above or below the surface of the earth, and which have scientific or historic value as objects of antiquity, as aboriginal relics, or as archaeological specimens. See Tennessee Code 11-6-102
Discovery: Lawyers' examination, before trial, of facts and documents in possession of the opponents to help the lawyers prepare for trial.
Excavation: means digging below the surface of the earth or water by hand or with mechanical equipment for the purpose of recovering artifacts, archaeological data, human remains or burial objects. See Tennessee Code 11-6-102
Person: includes a corporation, firm, company or association. See Tennessee Code 1-3-105
State: when applied to the different parts of the United States, includes the District of Columbia and the several territories of the United States. See Tennessee Code 1-3-105
(b) The division is hereby authorized to initiate, operate and maintain a statewide program in archaeology which shall include, but not be limited to:
(1) Surveying the state for mapping, recording and identification of archaeological sites;(2)Excavation of historic, underwater, prehistoric and paleontological sites, ruins, and mounds for the purpose of securing data and objects relating to man in Tennessee, and the preservation of such sites and materials secured;(3) Fundamental research in Tennessee archaeology and encouragement of public cooperation and responsibility for the preservation of Tennessee antiquities and archaeological and paleontological sites;(4) Research in and study of anthropology and related physical and natural sciences, both prior to excavation and thereafter, in order to plan and aid in discovery of sites and artifacts, and provide for the proper assessment once discovered;(5) Publication, in accordance with the rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the state publications committee, of findings in terms of scientific, popular, and cultural values;(6) Display and custodianship of artifacts, sites, and other tangible results of the program; and(7) Educational activities providing for the dissemination of information on archaeological conservation and the encouragement of archaeological societies, parks and museums.(c) It is not the purpose of the division to preempt, replace, or otherwise interfere with archaeological research programs conducted by state institutions of higher learning, but, to the contrary, to stimulate and supplement such programs whenever possible.
