On July 31 and August 1, 2017, Southeastern Archeological Services, Inc., conducted a Phase I archeological survey of a 1.15-mile (1.85-km) length of proposed corridor for a 115 kV distribution line that will run along the south and west side of State Route 52 in western Lumpkin County. The goal of the survey was to locate and evaluate archeological sites within the area of potential effect for the proposed project, so that potential effects to those resources could be evaluated in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Archival research showed that no previously recorded archeological sites or former structures more than 50 years old lay in the 30-ft (10-m) wide corridor. Ten prehistoric sites and a mining pit site are recorded within one mile of the project corridor. Systematic shovel testing and visual inspection along the corridor resulted in the discovery and investigation of two small prehistoric lithic scatter sites, 9LU340 and 9LU341.We recommend that the portions of both sites within the project corridor do not contribute to the eligibility of the sites. Since both sites extend beyond the corridor and were not fully investigated, the eligibility of the sites for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places remains unknown. We conclude that the proposed undertaking, the construction and maintenance of the Tobacco Pouch distribution line, will not adversely affect significant (eligible) archeological resources and should be granted clearance to proceed.
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