Agenda - Council - 09/14/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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2.0 RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY 2.1 Literature Review A literature review was completed on June 10, 2021. Typically, the literature review would be completed by visiting the Office of the State Archaeologist and the State Historic Preservation Office. Unfortunately, both of these offices were closed due to safety precautions surrounding SARS-CoV-2 spread prevention. Instead, previously identified archaeological sites were noted for a two-mile radius surrounding the project area using the online Minnesota Office of the State Archaeologist archaeological sites portal (OSA Portal). In addition, the Township/Range/Sections within the two-mile radius were sent to the State Historic Preservation Office to generate an internal database search. The Township/Range/Section search did not yield any additional sites not included on the OSA Portal. Archaeological survey reports from nearby sites were also reviewed to determine whether survey had already been completed within the project area. All resulting previously identified sites and adjacent archaeological surveys were reviewed as a part of this project. 2.2 Fieldwork Fieldwork was completed on June 14-16, 2021. Fieldwork included surface survey and shovel testing within the project area. Surface surveyed areas consisted of all agricultural fields on a seven -meter interval. Ground visibility in all surface -surveyed areas ranged between 70 and 90% (see Appendix A for example surface visibility photographs). Six prehistoric artifacts were identified during the surface survey. To test the depth of these cultural deposits, nine follow-up shovel tests were completed. Eight of these were excavated on a low ridge overlooking Trott Brook, and an additional shovel test was excavated at the location of Find Spot 1 just south of the ridge and north of Trott Brook. Shovel tests were typically 35-40 centimeters (cm) wide and at least 100cm deep. All soils were screened through 1/4" mesh screen, detailed profile notes completed, photographs taken, and GPS points collected for each shovel test. 2.3 Artifact Processing When encountered in the field, all artifacts were bagged by provenience and a GPS point recorded for its location. Artifacts were then transported to the NCC lab space and cleaned, lotted, and photographed. At the time of this report, the landowner has been contacted regarding whether they would like to keep the artifacts, but has not responded with their decision. If the landowner would like to keep the artifacts, all cultural material will be returned to them. If they would not like to keep the artifacts, all artifacts will be curated with the Minnesota Historical Society under Repository Agreement Number 953. Phase I Archaeological Survey of Trott Brook Property Ramsey, Anoka County, Minnesota Nienow Cultural Consultants, LLC 4