It is also important to recognize that Native American people feel very strong ties to materials made by their ancestors. To many, these artifacts are sacred and belong to the Native community. All professional archaeologists arrange permits before conducting any excavation or collection. These permits state how materials will be obtained and where they will be stored. Under the Archaeological Resource Protection Act of 1979, it is illegal to dig in, or to take, purchase, sell, receive, or transport materials from a site on federal land, without a permit.
Similar laws protect state and private lands, and Native American burials.
Set a good example. Never dig in an archaeological site or collect artifacts except under the guidance of a professional archaeologist. Leave any artifact you find in place and report it to an archaeologist. This will allow the archaeologist to contact the landowner about saving the artifact and to document its precise location. Teach your family and friends about the importance of site preservation.