The State, Tribal, Local, Plans & Grants Division provides preservation assistance through a number of programs that support the preservation of America's historic places and diverse history. We administer grant programs to State, Territorial, Tribal, and local governments, educational institutions, and non-profits in addition to providing preservation planning, technical assistance, and policy guidance. Our work supports historic properties and place-based identity, key components to the social and economic vitality of our communities.
The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the foundation for our programs, declares that:
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the spirit and direction of the Nation are founded upon and reflected in its historic heritage;
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the preservation of this irreplaceable heritage is in the public interest so that its vital legacy of cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, economic, and energy benefits will be maintained and enriched for future generations of Americans.
Established in 1977, the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) is the funding source of the preservation awards to the States, Tribes, local governments, and non-profits. Authorized at $150 million per year, the funding is provided by Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas lease revenues, not tax dollars. The HPF uses revenues of a non-renewable resource to benefit the preservation of other irreplaceable resources.
