Government agencies rely on a diverse set of management authorities to preserve and protect submerged cultural resources under their jurisdiction or control. Within the NPS, the Submerged Resources Center provides direct project support to superintendents and partners responsible for the stewardship of submerged resources, and to enhance and facilitate public appreciation, access, understanding, and preservation of these resources.
The Abandoned Shipwreck Act is among the most important because it establishes government ownership over most abandoned shipwrecks in our rivers, lakes and seabed, and protects the shipwrecks from salvage. The statute establishes new policies and, with the Abandoned Shipwreck Act Guidelines, provides direction to the State, Tribal, and Federal owners for comprehensive management that enhances and protects the resources while fostering partnerships and recreational access.
The 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories own and manage abandoned shipwrecks and other submerged cultural resources in their waters. Submerged resources programs differ widely among the States and no two programs are alike. Only a few States have a shipwreck law per se. Most States rely on general laws about antiquities, government property, submerged lands, or other things as the authority for managing submerged cultural resources.
Statutes and guidelines:
- Abandoned Shipwreck Act (statute text)
- Abandoned Shipwreck Act (guidelines)
Sunken Military Craft Act of 1990
- Sunken Military Craft Act (statute text)
Management Authorities Applied to Submerged Cultural Resources in U.S. Waters and in The Area
National Register of Historic Places and National Historic Landmarks:
Last updated: October 26, 2021