 Cultural Resources |
 Paleontology |
 Expert Testimony |
Cultural Resources
SME regularly contracts with local experts in the cultural resources field. Sections 106 and 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other federal and state cultural resource protection statutes govern development regulations. Cultural resources, or historic properties, are defined in the legislation as objects, sites or places, buildings, structures, and districts that are eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. SME understands the requirements of federal, state and local historic preservation regulation and how to plan for the identification and management of these resources, which results in proactive decision making, financial savings and effective stewardship of our cultural heritage.
The purpose of these laws is to protect historic and archaeological sites. The current laws require federal and most states to survey these cultural resources by locating and assessing the cultural significance on federal or state managed lands prior to the start of any construction activities. Cultural resources must be protected and preserved from impacts. SME has a history of contracting with regionally respected firms to ensure compliance with all regulations regarding cultural resources.
Paleontology
Paleontology is the study of plant and animal life of past geologic time and their paleoecological inter-relationships. Federal law and regulations protect fossils on Federally-owned lands and inventories may be required for projects located on Federal lands. In the State of Colorado, the Historical, Prehistorical, and Archaeological Resources Act (CRS 24-80-401 to 401, aka State Antiquities Act) also protects all fossils on state-owned lands and lands controlled by any subdivision of state government. SME regularly contracts with local specialists as needed to conduct paleontological inventories.
Expert Testimony/Support
SME has experience in expert testimony in regard to the Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act. Cases include the US Government vs. Halper and La Plata County vs. Hanks.
SME’s legal support has included the preparation and analysis of studies and reports, interpretation of technical information, case evaluation, consultation with regard to appropriate resolution, and expert witness testimony at both deposition and trial.