2011-12-29_PERMIT FILE - C1981012A (6)

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significant contribution to the broad patterns of history; or b) that are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or e) that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction. or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or d) that have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. Site Description Site 5LA12859, a prehistoric open camp, is located on a small bench situated on a talus slope overlooking Stonewall Valley (approximately 300 meters to the south) at an elevation of 7720 feet On -site vegetation includes pinyon/juniper forest, Gamble oak, serviceberry, and sagebrush. Soils consist ofshallow, rocky light brown loam. The site, measuring approximately 30 x 15m, is characterized by a scatter of lithic debitage and flaked and ground stone tools. Chipped stone artifacts include a utilized flake, a chert scraper, a uniface and debitage. Sixteen flakes were noted on the site surface. All stages of cortical reduction were observed. l,ithic materials consist predominately of locally available metaquartzite and siltstone (porceilanite), with some chert. The ground stone assemblage is comprised of one mano and an unidentifiable ground stone fragment. The mano is multi - faceted and has been ground and pecked. It measures approximately 1 l x 8 x 4cm. Some of the naturally occurring rock on the site surface has been reddened, apparently via thermal alteration or oxidation, however it is unclear as to whether this is due to past natural or cultural processes. The site has been mildly at1'ec:ted by erosional processes, primarily sheet wash by the south and southeast, but not to a signi licant degree. Soils are of an unknown depth, but appear to be greater than 30cm. Overall, the site remains in good condition. Evaluation and Management Recommendation Although no thermal features were observed, the site may contain depth of cultural fill. Site testing is recommended before a final determination of eligibility can be made. Accordingly, the site is field evaluated as need data. With regard to the present project, the site is on the periphery of the project boundary and will be avoided by the proposed road and test pit construction, no further work is recommended. Discussion Although prehistoric culturally diagnostic materials were scant, this study has provided an opportunity to expand the present database concerning the prehistoric occupation 6