TRC Environmental Corporation (TRC) was contracted by Quanta to complete an archaeological survey for the proposed 10032 East Dalton-Rock Springs Transmission Line Rebuild (Project), in Catoosa County, Georgia (Figure 1). This work was done in anticipation of federal funding from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USA CE). The Area of Potential Effect (APE) for the archaeological survey was limited to an existing utility right-of-way corridor that measures approximately 0.3 miles (500 meters) in length directly east of Georgia Route 151 (Alabama Highway) (Figure 2). The width of the corridor is 200 feet (60 .96 meters) and totals 7 .6 acres (3.08 hectares [ha]). The Phase I archaeological survey was conducted in March 2022. All work was done in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966, as amended, and its implementing regulations at 36 CFR ยง Part 800.
Prior to initiating fieldwork, TRC conducted a literature and records search via Georgia's Natural, Archaeological, and Historic Resources GIS (GNAHRGIS). The background research revealed one previously recorded archaeological site and one previously conducted cultural resource survey within a 1.6 km (1 mi) radius of the APE. Site 9CT49 was previously recorded as a lithic scatter from an indeterminate period as part of a cultural resources survey for a buried fiber optic line in 1994 and 1995. The site is in the eastern portion of the APE on a terrace overlooking Little Chickamauga Creek. Site 9CT49 was recommended potentially eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) based on a probable presence of intact cultural middens and the possible presence of sub-plowzone features.
As a result of the survey, site 9CT49 was relocated and no new archaeological sites were recorded. TRC agrees with the prior determination that site 9CT49 is potentially eligible for inclusion in the NRHP. Based on current Project plans, the poles will be approached for replacement from the west side of Little Chickamauga Creek and site 9CT49 will be avoided. Therefore, it is the opinion of TRC that the proposed undertaking will have no effect on any archaeological resources located within the Project APE. TRC recommends no additional investigation in connection with the proposed Project.
If archaeological materials are encountered during construction, the procedures codified at 36 CFR 800.13(b) will apply. Archaeological materials include, but are not limited to, stone projectile points (arrowheads), ceramic sherds, bricks, worked wood, bone and stone, metal, and glass objects, and human skeletal materials. If significant artifacts are encountered, it is recommended that the Georgia State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) be consulted.
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