BISMARCK — The Bureau of Land Management Montana/Dakotas and the North Dakota State Historic Preservation Office formally signed a landmark agreement on Wednesday that establishes a structured framework for cultural resource management and streamlines compliance processes.

“This agreement marks a major milestone in our partnership with the North Dakota State Historic Preservation Office,” said Sonya Germann, BLM Montana/Dakotas state director in a news release. “With this framework in place, we are enhancing efficiency in cultural resource management while maintaining our commitment to responsible preservation.”

“By focusing efforts where they will have the greatest impact, we can ensure that land management decisions balance economic growth with responsible historic preservation,” said Andrew Clark, deputy State Historic Preservation officer, in the release. “This agreement strengthens our ability to support North Dakota’s vital energy and agricultural industries while preserving the state’s finite cultural heritage.”

The agreement also aligns with the Department of the Interior’s Secretary’s Order 3418, “Unleashing American Energy,” by ensuring that cultural resource reviews on federal lands are conducted in a more timely and efficient manner, supporting responsible energy development while upholding preservation commitments.

The protocol is expected to significantly reduce review times, particularly for oil and gas-related activities, while ensuring compliance with federal preservation requirements. Additionally, the agreement clarifies tribal consultation responsibilities, increases public and stakeholder engagement, and establishes cooperative education and outreach initiatives.