Phase I Cultural Resources Survey of the 182 Acre Meldrim South Tract

From 25 June to 29 June 2007, Brockington and Associates, Inc., conducted a Phase I cultural resources survey of the approximately 182.5 acre (73.86 hectare) Meldrim South Survey Area Effingham County, Georgia (Figure 2). The survey was conducted for DP Partners, LLC to determine the effects of the project on cultural resources. Cultural resources survey was required pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 CFR 320-330), in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (as amended through 1992), and 36 CRF 800 (Protection of Historic Properties). Survey tasks were completed in compliance with criteria defined under the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards (36 CRF Part 61).

Background research was conducted at the Georgia Archaeological Site File (University of Georgia, Athens), and augmented by review of NAHRGIS (Georgia Natural, Archaeological, Historic Resources Geographic Information System) to determine if any previously recorded archaeological sites exist within the project’s area of potential effect (APE), defined as an approximately 182.5 acre (73.76 hectare) parcel. In addition, the list of National Register of Historic Place (NRHP) properties was reviewed at the Georgia Historic Preservation Division (GHPD). No previously recorded archaeological sites or historic structures were identified within the study area. One previously recorded site (9EF150) is located within a one mile radius of the project tract (see Figure 12). No previously recorded National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) properties are recorded within a one mile radius of the project tract.

One archaeological site (9EF282) was identified during the survey. Site 9EF283 consisted of seven non-diagnostic chert flakes and is not recommended eligible for the National Register of Historic Place (NRHP). One isolated find was identified, consisting of one small historic ceramic (ironstone), one clear glass fragment, and one small unidentified metal fragment. Construction will have no impact on either Site 9EF283 or the isolated find. Archaeological resource clearance is recommended.