I would consider the TVA impoundments and their easement boundaries as being protected now. I haven't heard of anyone being fined but it is a possibility as TVA has a Federal police force now which does some patrolling on the reservoirs. I recall reading a few years back that it is unlawful to take relics such as arrowheads and others of historical value in or on the reservoirs and easement boundaries and the taking was to be discouraged. In the past people used to pick up arrowheads near where I live during the winter pool (low water time) when much of the banks covered in summer are exposed. I suppose one could find Civil War relics in the same manner in SE Tennessee, but I wouldn't advise it. The easement boundary usually covers that portion of the reservoir bank subject to being underwater up to or near the elevation of the top of the dam, the highest the water could be. The TVA navigation and topo maps usually show this boundary. Just thought I would add my two cents worth.

Jerold Newton