Georgia Feed 115/25 kV Substation, Randolph County, Georgia

GTC proposes to construct the Georgia Feed 115/25 kV Substation east of Cuthbert, Georgia in Randolph County (Figure 1). An archaeological survey was conducted in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended through 1992 (16 U.S.C. 470). The survey documented the presence or absence of archaeological resources potentially eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The scope of the project included background research, archaeological field survey, artifact analysis, and preliminary evaluation of the NRHP eligibility of any resources identified within the project area. All work was conducted in accordance with the guidelines of the Georgia State Historic Preservation Office (GaSHPO 1993). Available historic maps were consulted and background research indicated that small, low density lithic scatters representing temporary camps might be found on an upland somewhat removed from a source of water. Thus, the prehistoric potential for the project area was considered moderate. Examination of available historic maps, dating to 1924 and 1953 failed to identify any historic structures or sites within the project area. The potential for historic archaeological resources was considered low. Surface inspection of the project area revealed extensive disturbance and erosion. Two shovel test units were excavated in areas which revealed somewhat less disturbance than the rest of the site. The stratigraphy consisted of a shallow brown sandy loam with gravel fill followed by yellowish red sandy clay subsoil. No artifacts were recovered from either shovel test unit and no artifacts were noted on the surface. No archaeological resources were identified during the Phase I archaeological survey of the proposed Georgia Feed 115/25 kV substation. No further archaeological investigation is recommended. It is concluded that the proposed construction of the substation will have no effect on significant archaeological resources.