Phase I Cultural Resources Survey of the Proposed Wehadkee Farm Mitigation Bank, Heard County, Georgia

R.S. Webb & Associates conducted a Phase I cultural resources survey of a 2,200-feet long by 100-feet wide [671 by 30 meter (m)] portion of the proposed Wehadkee Farm Mitigation Bank in Heard County, Georgia, on October 3, 2007. The project tract is located west of Glenn Road, approximately 1.2 kilometers northwest of O'Neals Crossroads. The study was conducted for Mitigation Resource Group to locate and identify cultural resources within the project corridor, and to assess resource significance based on National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) criteria [36CFR Part 60.4 (a-d)]. The Phase I cultural resources survey included a literature review and intensive field survey. During the literature review, state and county records, maps, and documents were examined to determine if previously recorded archeological sites or historic structures are located in or around the project area. The archeological field survey was conducted using surface and subsurface techniques to locate and identify archeological resources within the study area. The project's area of potential effects was surveyed for standing architecture. Review of maps at the Georgia Archeological Site File found that no previously recorded archeological sites are located inside the project boundaries, but that six sites are located within 300 m (1,000 feet) of the project area. Examination of the NRHP and historic structure files at the Georgia Historic Preservation Division found that no NRHP-listed or state recognized properties are located in the project area, or within 300 m of the project boundaries. No archeological sites, historic structures, or isolated artifact finds were recorded as a result of the field survey. Construction of the proposed 671-m long by 30-m wide portion of the Wehadkee Farm Mitigation Bank will have no effect on cultural resources eligible or potentially eligible for listing on the NRHP. No additional cultural resources investigations are recommended for this project. Clearance is recommended for this undertaking.