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Evidence was noted during the survey suggesting the presence <br />/// of deer and elk. Several varieties of birds, rodents, and reptiles <br />• were also observed. <br />This brief discussion of the local ecology is fundaccental to <br />understanding patterns of human adaptation and exploitation. Occupants <br />of the study area prior to Europenn contact were particularly sensi- <br />tive to the constraints imposed by their natural environment. The <br />archaeological record, when complete, should reflect these constraints <br />in the distribution of settlement as evidenced by the patterned <br />location of activities and associated cultural materials. Of course, <br />present-day environments do not necessarily reflect those of the past, <br />but they are likely to be characteristic of the most recent period <br />of prehistoric cultural development. Therefore, ve may assume that <br />settlement in the vicinity of the reconnaissance area described <br />• herein depended upon a seasonal exploitation of Gambel's oak, <br />serviceberry, and associated seed plants. These products were supple- <br />mented by numerous faunal species. Hule deer, rabbits and hares <br />probably played an important role in the prehistoric diet. <br />The extreme nature of the vertical relief which characterizes <br />the area may have further restricted occupation. Prehistoric <br />mobility vas significantly constrained by local topography (Huscher, <br />1939) and in the area of this survey was probably limited to east- <br />vest travel along the North Fork of the Gunnison River. Steep <br />canyon walls probably rendered the area accessible only during <br />the suaicer months when foot travel was possible via narrow flood- <br />plain areas along the river's perimeter. These conditions are <br />• <br />12 <br />