Identifying precontact and postcontact sites in support of project development

Historical Resources Impact Assessment

We completed a historical resources impact assessment on a planned pipeline development covering 85 kilometers in length and several injection well locations. From cultivated areas to undisturbed forested areas, we even looked at terrain characterized by sand dune topography. Named and unnamed drainage crossings were examined for cultural materials including a major river body.

During the assessment studies, 18 precontact archaeological sites and eight postcontact sites were identified. The precontact sites included isolated finds, artifact scatters, and campsites, producing a variety of lithic material types as well as fire-broken rock, indicative of campsite activities. Two time-diagnostic projectile points were also recovered including an Oxbow point dating to 4,600-3,000 years before present, and a possible Besant point dating to 2,400-1,200 years before present. Recommendations were formulated for Historical Resources Act clearance as any identified significant sites were located outside of the project development area. Sites within the project development area were adequately mitigated through documentation and collection.