Ninety-five percent of California's cultural history is contained in the archaeological remains of the prehistoric culture.
Archaeological sites are among the most fragile, nonrenewable resources in the state.
Detailed study of archaeological sites is the only method of gaining knowledge and understanding of prehistoric cultures. In addition, many of the sites and the artifacts and remains in them are a sacred part of the heritage, religion, and culture of the Native American community. In addition to prehistoric resources, California also contains a wealth of historic cultural resources representing the more recent past of the State. Although rarely more than 200 years old, these resources are as fragile and irreplaceable as archaeological remains that may be thousands of years old. In California, various laws and regulations require the development of property to be accompanied by a rational and respectful concern for the protection of cultural resources.