Phase I Cultural Resources Survey, Barnes Lake Development Site, Harris County, Georgia

R. S. Webb & Associates conducted the cultural resources field survey of the Barnes Lake property from February 22 through March 2, 2006. We identified 14 archeological sites (Sites 1 - 12 and 14 - 15) on the property (Figure 1). Of the 14 sites, Site 3, a prehistoric rock shelter is recommended eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) based on the survey data. In addition, eight sites, Sites 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 12, appear to be potentially significant at this time based on survey data. No additional work is recommended for the five sites with an ineligible recommendation. If the nine sites recommended eligible and potentially eligible for the NRHP, Sites 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 12, can be avoided during project implementation and preserved after the project is completed, no additional archeological work is recommended for this project. If all or portions of Sites 2, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, and 12 will be physically impacted by the proposed undertaking, Phase II testing is recommended to determine if these sites are clearly eligible or ineligible for the NRHP. Through Phase II testing we may determine that some of these sites could be recommend ineligible for the NRHP based on the additional information obtained through testing. If the government agencies agree with that recommendation, no additional archeological work would be required at these sites. Although no additional field work is recommended for Site 7, additional archival research is recommended to determine the nature of these earthworks. Excavation of a small trench is recommended at Site 3 to delineate the vertical limits of the site, and to obtain a better understanding of the site chronology. Preservation or Phase III data recovery would be recommended for the sites (if any) determined to be NRHP eligible as a result of Phase II testing and agency review.