Tributaries to the Past: 10,000 years of Riverine uses at Ichauway as Recorded by Archaeological Reconnaissance

Archaeological research and preservation is strategic to the Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center's mission of stewardship through research, conservation, and education. Archaeological and historical research is vital to a true understanding of the entire picture of man and the environment from 12,000 years ago (or earlier) to European settlement, to the 21St century. Archaeological survey arid historical research are vital keys to the JWJERC conservation of its cultural resources, in that such work will provide the necessary information regarding the number, types, and dates of sites, along with their locations, condition, and significance. The Center cannot manage its cultural resources wisely until it has this information. The preliminary reconnaissance by The Coosawattee Foundation was the first step in such research. The drought of 2000 may have negatively impacted ecological habitats; however, it has served to unveil historic and prehistoric sites that were once submerged in Ichauway's riverine corridors. The extensive riverine reconnaissance of the Center, conducted by Southern Research Historic Preservation Consultants (as discussed in this report), was another crucial step in providing data necessary for conservation of cultural resources. The riverine reconnaissance by Southern Research located 49 sites along Ichawaynochaway Creek and the Flint River, several of which are extremely significant to the local and regional area. In addition, evidence was uncovered pointing to a strong potential for early man sites in the area, which would offer a significance on a global scale. Future reconnaissance and surveys covering the Center's remaining 29,000 acres are the follow-up steps that will contribute to a database necessary for successful cultural resource management. The conservation of archaeological sites at Ichauway involves education. Effective education includes appropriate background instruction and hands-on opportunities (under professional archaeological supervision) to provide employees with a basic understanding of the archaeological resources at Ichauway and their importance. The JWJERC has already taken the lead in beginning to educate its staff and personnel on this topic. Continuing education will be necessary as new data comes to light, and as new personnel come to the Center. Other education should include audiences that the center already targets for natural resource education, since the conservation of both natural resources and cultural resources go handin-hand. Conservation of archaeological sites at Ichauway requires a commitment to the accurate recording of data and the curation of artifacts and associated documentation. The most effective method is to place the responsibility for curated collections and associated documentation in the hands of one individual who can ensure that the provenance is always maintained. Curation includes maintaining the provenance of the artifacts, in addition to the text, map, photograph, report, and other documentation of archaeological sites in a stable environment. The vision shown by the Board of Directors of the Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center in acknowledging that its mission of conservation covers not only natural resources, but cultural resources as well, sets a moral precedence for all to follow. The proper identification, documentation, conservation, and curation of the archaeological record at Ichauway will allow the Center to continue to follow this meritorious path.