Overview For This Discussion: Examine Procedures

Overviewfor This Discussion You Will Examine The Procedures And Funct

Overview for this discussion, you will examine the procedures and functions of phase II surveys. Be sure to complete the readings for this module as preparation for your initial post. Describe the process and the significance of a Phase II survey. How does a Phase II survey differ from a Phase I survey? What is necessary for NRHP eligibility? Read through your instructor’s and classmates’ posts. Post a substantive response to at least two other classmates' initial post. Make sure the post contributes to the conversation rather than just saying something like “I agree with you” or “You did a good job on this post.”

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The process of cultural resource management involves several critical phases to evaluate the significance of archaeological sites and structures. Among these, Phase I and Phase II surveys serve distinct yet interconnected roles. This paper elucidates the procedures and significance of Phase II surveys, contrasting them with Phase I surveys, and discusses the criteria necessary for listing a site on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

Understanding Phase I Surveys

Phase I surveys are primarily reconnaissance efforts designed to identify the presence of archaeological resources within a given area. They involve literature reviews, field reconnaissance, and surface-testing methods such as shovel testing, to ascertain whether buried sites exist. The main purpose is to locate and assess the extent and nature of archaeological resources, which lays the foundation for subsequent investigations. The significance of Phase I lies in its role as an initial step, determining whether further investigation is warranted and establishing baseline data on cultural resource potential.

The Process and Significance of Phase II Surveys

Once Phase I surveys identify potential sites, Phase II surveys are conducted to evaluate the significance of those resources. This phase involves detailed testing and data recovery, including systematic excavation, more extensive artifact analysis, and sometimes preliminary data synthesis. The goal of Phase II is to determine whether the site possesses integrity, integrity of context, and significance based on criteria established by the NRHP. These surveys provide more definitive data about the site's archaeological value, integrity, and potential for inclusion on the NRHP.

The significance of Phase II surveys lies in their ability to provide in-depth information about the resource’s integrity and significance, which assists in making informed management decisions. This phase can result in the recommendation to preserve, mitigate, or avoid the site, depending on its importance. When a site demonstrates significance during Phase II, it may warrant further mitigation or complete preservation efforts.

Differences Between Phase I and Phase II Surveys

The primary difference between Phase I and Phase II surveys is their purpose and depth of investigation. Phase I is a broad, initial assessment designed to detect potential archaeological resources without extensive excavation, mainly relying on surface and limited subsurface testing. Conversely, Phase II involves more detailed evaluation, often through extensive excavation, to determine the integrity and significance of the identified resources. While Phase I aims to identify the presence of resources, Phase II assesses their potential eligibility for the NRHP.

NRHP Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the NRHP requires that a site meet at least one of the four criteria, which consider significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. Specifically, for archaeological sites, criteria focus on the site's potential to yield important information about prehistory or history (National Park Service, 1995). The site must possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. The data gathered from Phase II surveys help determine if a site has sufficient integrity and significance to qualify for the NRHP.

Conclusion

In summary, Phase II surveys are critical for the detailed evaluation of archaeological sites identified during Phase I assessments. They provide essential information that informs decisions regarding preservation or excavation and contribute towards the legal and ethical stewardship of cultural resources. Differentiating the scope and purpose of each phase ensures effective management, compliance with regulations, and the preservation of significant cultural heritage.

References

National Park Service. (1995). How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation. National Register Bulletin 15. U.S. Department of the Interior.