Locust Grove Sub, Georgia Highway 42, Locust Grove, Henry County, Georgia

Introduction: Environmental Corporation of America (ECA) has completed Section 106 Review Documentation, FCC Form 620, for our client, Georgia Power Company, concerning a proposed communications structure located off of Georgia Highway 42, near Locust Grove, Henry County, Georgia. The APE for Direct Effects for this proposed communications facility includes a proposed 10-foot by 12-foot (3-meter by 4-meter) monopole site area with the center located at approximately N33° 21' 39.9" W84° 07' 14.3" (UTM: Zone 16 767921E 3695021N) and would contain a 163-foot (overall height) monopole communications structure and would be located within an existing gravel-covered substation. Archaeological Background Research: During our background database research, we found no previously recorded archaeological sites, but four survey reports (455, 1629, 3621, & 7241), within a ¾-mile search radius of the proposed undertaking. The nearest of the survey reports, Survey 455, was conducted for a transmission line and was located approximately 700 feet (213 meters) southeast of the proposed undertaking at its closest point. No archaeological sites were discovered during this survey within our ¾-mile background research radius, nor during any of the other survey reports indentified within the ¾-mile background research radius. Field Conditions: The project area consists of a proposed 10-foot by 12-foot (3-meter by 4-meter) monopole site that is located in a Georgia Power Company substation. Based on our site observations, it appears that the project area has been heavily disturbed from the construction of the substation. The topography of the proposed lease area slopes to the southwest. The nearest surface water is a pond located approximately 900 feet (274 meters) southwest of the proposed undertaking. Ground surface visibility within the proposed undertaking was near zero. Field Methods: The methodology for the Phase I intensive field survey for this project was determined by the professional opinions and experience of our principal and staff archaeologists, applicable SHPO guidelines, and applicable tribal guidelines. The survey was performed by Eric Johnson of ECA on November 6, 2013. Approximately 15 minutes of field time was recorded for the Phase I intensive field survey. A pedestrian survey was conducted over the project site by visual inspection of exposed ground surfaces throughout the 10-foot by 12-foot (3-meter by 4-meter) monopole site. The entire APE for direct effects appears to have been disturbed from previous construction activities related to the existing substation. Field Survey Results: During the pedestrian survey, no archaeological sites or cultural artifacts were identified. Conclusions: We believe any ground-disturbing activities related to the construction of the proposed communications facility would likely have no effect on any archeological resources eligible for listing on the NRHP. Therefore, we recommend a fmding of No Effect for the proposed undertaking as it relates to archaeology. We request your concurrence with our finding.