By weaving archeology with an environment's historical context our company is able to provide a rich tapestry to showcase a region's diversity and cultural heritage. The study of early settlers, their homes, and their industries provide us with a link to that cultural heritage.

To help our clients understand the services offered by HRC we offer a brief overview of the what, who, and how of anthropology and archeology.

What is archeology? It is the study of past human cultures through the material remains left behind by human activity.

Who performs archeological studies? Colleges and Universities, private individuals with an avocational interest in archeology, amature archeological groups, and cultural resource management (CRM) professionals have all, in some degree or another, conducted archeological studies. Professional archeologists, however, provide something more than those with an avocational interest. We recognize that all projects require a clear understanding of the various laws, regulations, and planning involved from the inception to the completion of a project. We know that archeologists destroy sites. We destroy them systematically, with exacting detail. We know that our work may destroy potentially important information. That is why the training, education, and experience of the profession is so important. We always recommend avoidance of a known or new archeological site before we recommend excavation. Finally, we are aware that not all sites are significant or should be saved.

How do we conduct Phase I archeological surveys? HRC has a well developed strategy for identifying archeological sites that enables us to provide the client with the most cost effective and timely outcome for their project.

The first step - A literature review is conducted to determine if other sites are in your project area, what types of sites they are, or what is the probability of finding sites in your project area. This requires searching state and county records, the National Register of Historic Places, old archeological reports, maps, and histories of the area.

The second step - An on the ground survey is conducted, which is often termed Phase I. We follow the guidelines developed by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) of each state. These guidelines may require us to dig small shovel tests in those areas where the ground surface is not visible. In areas that have been plowed, we can do a walk-over, looking for artifacts that may have been turned over in the plowing process. In flood plains we are required to test areas using backhoes or augers.

The third step - We produce a report that outlines the nature of the work conducted and provides analysis of the material remains found and recommendations for clearance or additional work as appropriate. This recommendation is based on clear evidence found at the site and on over twenty years experience. State review by the SHPO is facilitated by clear, well written, fully documented reports like those produced by HRC.

© Horizon Research Consultants, Inc., 2003