Final answer:
Contract archaeology involves the application of archaeological techniques to excavate and preserve archaeological sites threatened by development, adhering to legal regulations at various governmental levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, contract archaeology is indeed the application of archaeological methods to assess and preserve archaeological sites that are threatened by construction or development. This professional field operates within a framework of various laws, regulations, and guidelines that are set at federal, state, and local levels. The purpose of contract archaeology is to mitigate the potential destruction of archaeological resources by documenting and, if necessary, excavating areas before development takes place.
Contract archaeologists often work in collaboration with construction companies and government agencies to ensure that artifacts and sites are handled according to legal standards. This may include conducting controlled excavations, properly documenting findings, and making decisions about the conservation or restoration of sites. They apply scientific processes to uncover artifacts, and their work helps us understand the cultural and biological remains of historic and prehistoric human activities.