Acre approves new protections for archaeological geoglyphs

The State Council for the Environment and Forests (Cemaf) in Acre has approved new regulations to strengthen the protection of archaeological sites, specifically targeting the state's geoglyphs. These geometric earthworks, which can be up to 3,000 years old, are a major cultural landmark for the region, which hosts over 1,000 registered examples.

Under the new rules, any development project that may impact these areas must obtain a formal statement from the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (Iphan) during the environmental licensing process. Entrepreneurs and landowners are now responsible for the temporary conservation of these sites and may be required to commission specialized archaeological studies.

The resolution establishes strict prohibitions in areas containing archaeological remains. Forbidden activities include deforestation, agricultural or forest planting, the construction of buildings, dams, or reservoirs, mineral exploitation, and the installation of power lines. Additionally, the opening of roads or tracks and any activities involving significant earth movement are restricted to prevent damage to the heritage sites.