This report documents the results of the cultural resources survey for Impact7G, Inc. Project GNL06233, located in Oconee County, Georgia. The survey was conducted to ensure that resources eligible for or listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) located within the Area of Potential Effect (APE) are not adversely affected by the proposed project. This work is being done as required by Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (as amended) and its implementing regulations, 36 CFR Part 800. In addition, this document is being submitted in compliance with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) “Nationwide Programmatic Agreement for Review of Effects on Historic Properties for Certain Undertakings Approved by the Federal Communications Commission” (FCC 2005).
Project Description and Field Conditions
The subject property for the project is located at 5400 Greensboro Highway, Watkinsville, Oconee County, GA 30677, at coordinates 33°46’22.55” N, 83°18’12.37” W (Figures 1-3; Photographs 1-14). The project proposes the construction of a new monopole telecommunications tower and associated equipment within a fenced compound within a 120ft-by-120ft lease area. The proposed tower has an estimated height of 199ft, including all appurtenances. The project will be accessible via a 30ft-wide access and utility easement that extends 840ft north from the project area where it intersects with Farmbrough Bridge Road. The total project area measures approximately 0.91 acres (0.37 hectares).
Scope of Work
The cultural resource survey for the project consists of an archaeological survey and a viewshed analysis in which all known standing historic resources within the APE were analyzed. The archaeological survey for the project consisted of background research, a cultural resources records search, and fieldwork. Archaeological potential was assessed as moderate. Following this assessment, the archaeological fieldwork was conducted on February 9, 2022 by Dallon Olive, Archaeological Technician of JMT, working under the direct supervision of Abigail Heller-Leib Registered Professional Archaeologist (RPA) and Senior Archaeologist of JMT, who serves as Principal Investigator for this project. Archaeological fieldwork included visual inspection, pedestrian search, and the systematic use of shovel tests within the APE. Ground visibility within the proposed project area varied between approximately 45-60%. Fourteen shovel tests were placed in the APE. No artifacts were uncovered, no archaeological sites were identified, and no additional archaeological testing is recommended.
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