Delaware Code
Subchapter II. Archaeological Resources in or on State Lands
§ 5303. Purposes.

(a) The General Assembly finds that:

(1) Archaeological resources in or on state lands are an integral and irreplaceable part of the State's heritage;
(2) Archaeological resources are valued as nonrenewable resources that provide educational, scientific, social and economic benefits for all citizens;
(3) These resources are increasingly endangered because of their commercial attractiveness and the effects of natural forces and human intervention;
(4) Existing state laws do not provide adequate protection to prevent the loss and destruction of these archaeological resources resulting from such causes; and
(5) There is a wealth of archaeological information which has been legally obtained by private individuals for noncommercial purposes and which could voluntarily be made available to professional archaeological institutions to further the educational, scientific, social and economic benefits for all citizens.
(b) The purpose of this subchapter is to secure, for the present and future benefit of the people of Delaware, the protection of archaeological resources which are in or on state lands, including subaqueous lands, to increase awareness and encourage meaningful stewardship of the State's archaeological heritage, and to foster increased cooperation and exchange of information among governmental authorities, the professional archaeological community, and private individuals having collections of archaeological resources and data.

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