Archaeological Resources Survey of the Greensboro to Lake Oconee 115 kV Transmission Line, Greene County, Georgia

From 30 July-6 August, as well as from 2-3 September 2003, Brockington and Associates, Inc., conducted an intensive Phase I archaeological resources survey of the approximately 17.7 km (11.0 mile) Greensboro to Lake Oconee 115 kV transmission line corridor in Greene County, Georgia. This investigation was performed for Jordan, Jones and Goulding, Inc., of Norcross, Georgia. This survey consisted of background research and intensive archaeological field survey, and was conducted in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966 (as amended through 1992). Background research was conducted at the Historic Preservation Division, Department of Natural Resources in Atlanta, as well as the State Archaeological Site Files in Athens. Background research revealed a total of 23 archaeological resources within the project area of potential effect (APE) (0.8 km [0.5 mile] radius). Archaeological field survey methods included systematic shovel testing at 30 meter (98 ft) intervals along two transects within an alternating 30.5 meter (100 ft) and 15.25 meter (50 ft) right-of-way (a 30.5 meter [100 ft] right-of-way was surveyed in cross-country areas, while a 15.25 meter [50 ft] right-of-way was surveyed along roads). Shovel tests were excavated until sterile subsoil was reached. Visual inspection augmented shovel testing in areas with good ground surface visibility. Two archaeological resources (9GE2076 and 9GE2077) and one isolated find (Isolate 1) were recovered during the field survey. Site 9GE2076 is a prehistoric/historic artifact scatter located along a gravel road and grassy field off Leslie Mill Road in the eastern portion of the project corridor. A standing structure, as well as two possible gravestones, is situated within the site boundary. These possible gravestones appear to have been redeposited. The site contains little soil, and has been severely disturbed due to road construction. Site 9GE2076 is recommended ineligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Site 9GE2077 is a small prehistoric ceramic scatter located in thick vegetation on a small ridge line in the central portion of the corridor. Site 9GE2077 is recommended ineligible for the NRHP. Isolate 1 is a prehistoric ceramic fragment located in the eastern portion of the corridor, and is also recommended ineligible for the NRHP. Archaeological resources clearance for the proposed construction is recommended.