Archeological Investigations at a Proposed Boat Ramp on the Oostanaula River, Gordon County, Georgia

During August, 2008, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GDNR) and Southeastern Archeological Services, Inc. (SAS) conducted Phase I intensive survey investigation of a proposed boat ramp along the Oostanaula River in Gordon County, Georgia. The survey identified prehistoric site 9GO302 on the northern/western side of the River within a 1.2 ha (2.9 ac) tract. A total of 41 shovel tests were excavated within the APE and 22 tested positive. Artifact density was notably greater along the ca. 10-m-wide, slightly elevated levee that parallels the Oostanaula River. Because of the relatively high artifact density and the potential for features on the site dating to only the later part of the Archaic period, 9GO302 was recommended potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in a preliminary report submitted by SAS to the GDNR. Phase II testing investigation would be necessary to firmly establish NRHP status. In November and December, 2008, SAS returned to conduct testing phase investigation. Testing phase investigation involved hand excavation of 10 m2 among six excavation units and monitored machine excavation of 128 m2 among six excavation trenches. Hand excavation produced a moderate amount of flaked stone artifacts, two sand-tempered sherds, and an abundance of fire-cracked rock. Eight cultural features were identified, all of which were rock clusters of varying compactness. The backhoe trenches did not encounter any cultural features. Features were concentrated on the levee portion of 9GO302. 9GO302 is recommended eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places because it produced significant important information regarding site design and cultural feature form from Phase II testing investigation. However, since there was no organic preservation and only one type of feature (rock clusters), further excavation would not produce additional significant information beyond the testing phase of investigation. Thus, we decided that the proposed construction of the boat ramp would not constitute an adverse effect to site 9GO302, and we recommend that the project be allowed to proceed without any further archeological investigation.