(1) The purpose of this subchapter is to implement Title 22, chapter 3, part 4, MCA, the Montana Antiquities Act, through the establishment of administrative procedures. The department shall conform to the following rules in the systematic consideration of antiquities on state lands prior to reaching a final decision on action requiring compliance with the Montana Antiquities Act. These rules are not intended to require absolute protection of all antiquities but are meant to avoid or mitigate damage to antiquities when feasible.