It's likely an EIS (Environmental Impact Study), which is a report on a proposed project, not a peer reviewed study. They're typically managed and written by en

It's likely an EIS (Environmental Impact Study), which is a report on a proposed project, not a peer reviewed study. They're typically managed and written by engineering firms, who hire other scientist and specialists as needed for contributions. They almost universally have an archeological survey as a component, to ensure no major or unknown sites are accidentally bulldozed. They're required for almost any government project, as well as many/most large scale private projects. There are variations based on type of project and scale, but it serves as the document used by government officials to review a project before it's permitted. Not just an office or two, but dozens, or even hundreds of offices. Responses are given with official govt input, including requested changes. But often it's simply a letter waiving topical or geographic jurisdiction, or simply a letter of no objection. Once approved, it's all but a green light to proceed, politically. Which is why you sue if you know what it's going to say, and don't like it.