CHAPTER 5 FIELD RESULTS

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1 CHAPTER 5 FIELD RESULTS INTRODUCTION The proposed CPV Valley Energy Center and associated transmission corridor options are located on a 122-acre parcel of land situated between U.S. Route 6 to the north, NY Route 17M to the east, and Interstate 84 to the south. The parcel consists of open meadow, former agricultural fields now supporting tall grasses, and undeveloped wooded areas southeast of the town of Middletown. Of the 122 acre-parcel, a total of 45 acres, representing all of the potential construction impact areas, were subject to survey. The parcel is bisected by Carpenter Creek, a west to east tributary of Monhagen Brook, and by several intermittent drainages that feed the tributary. The drainages show evidence of historic modification associated with the prior use of the project area for cultivation. Background research showed no previously recorded archaeological sites within the project area and no historic properties were depicted on historic maps of the impact areas. As described in the previous chapter, four prehistoric sites dating to the Late Archaic period had been identified on landforms in close proximity to the project area to the north and west, and an additional 14 sites had been identified within one mile of the project area. Because much of the CPV Valley project area was characterized as gently sloping or flat topography with poorly drained soils, the project area was not considered to have been attractive to major human settlement; however use of the area for resource procurement and/or specialized camps during the prehistoric period was expected. As described in Chapter 4, for the purposes of survey, the proposed construction areas of the CPV Valley project area were subdivided into smaller survey parcels designated as Survey Areas 1 through 12 (Table 5-1; see Figure 1-2; Figure 5-1). As indicated, systematic shovel testing of each survey area was conducted at 15-m intervals along individual transects or groups of transects spaced 15 m apart. The following chapter describes each of the survey areas and reports on the results of the investigation. As a result of the survey, four previously unrecorded archaeological sites (A , A , A and A ) and five isolated finds (A , A , A , A , and A ) were identified (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-2). The findings from each site are described herein and research potential and National Register eligibility recommendations are provided in Chapter 6. Survey Area Table 5-1 Summary of Survey Areas, Shovel Test Transects, and Identified Sites Proposed Construction Area Size (acreage) Survey Transects (No. of Transects) No. of Shovel Tests Identified Site or Isolated Find 1 Laydown Area A through J (10) 76 Site A Isolated find A Optional Laydown Area 1.2 A through E (5) 24 3 Laydown Area A through l (12) 73 Isolated find A Laydown Area A through F (6) 13 5 Main Facility 2.0 A through E (5) 14 6 Main Facility 6.0 A through P (16) 88 Site A Main Facility 2.0 A through F (6) 21 8 Main Facility 13 A through V (22) 169 Isolated find A Main Facility 7.0 A through K (11) 109 Site A Isolated find A

2 Survey Area Proposed Construction Area Size (acreage) Survey Transects (No. of Transects) No. of Shovel Tests Identified Site or Isolated Find 10 Perimeter Overhead 3.7 A (1) 71 Site A Transmission Corridor Isolated find A Straight Shot Overhead 3.2 A (1) 47 Transmission Corridor 12 Underground Interconnect 0.4 A (1) 3 Totals Four Sites; Five Isolated Finds Figure 5-1: Aerial showing survey areas, newly recorded sites, and isolated finds. 29

3 Figure 5-2: 7.5-minute USGS Middletown Quadrangle showing newly recorded sites and isolated finds. 30

4 Survey Area 1 (Laydown Area 3) SURVEY AREAS Survey Areas 1, 2, 3, and 4 (Construction Laydown Areas) Survey Area 1 is located in the northeastern portion of the project area, immediately adjacent to and south of U.S. Route 6 (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-3). The 2.0-acre parcel consists of a gently sloping open field supporting tall grasses. Soils in the survey area are mapped as sixty percent Raynham silt loam (Ra), and forty percent Erie gravelly silt loam with 3-8 percent slope (ErB). Raynham series soils are very poorly drained and formed in glaciolacustrine deposits. Erie series soils are somewhat poorly drained and formed in glacial till. Figure 5-3: Survey Area 1 (Laydown Area 3). Ten north/south transects (Transects A through J) were surveyed in this area proceeding south from U.S. Route 6 terminating at artificial drainage cuts to the south and west. In total, 61 shovel tests were excavated in the survey area identifying one prehistoric site (Site A ) and one isolated find (IF A ). Site A was identified in three shovel tests (J-5 and two delineations) which yielded one chert flake fragment, one quartzite decortication flake, and one quartz crystal. The isolated find consists of a single piece of chert shatter with cortex recovered from ST H-1. 31

5 Survey Area 2 (Optional Laydown Area) Survey Area 2 is located adjacent to and southwest of Survey Area 1 and consists of a 1.2-acre optional laydown area located in an open field adjacent to U.S. Route 6 (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-4). Soils in the survey area are mapped entirely as very poorly drained Raynham silt loam (Ra), which were formed in glaciolacustrine deposits. In total, 24 shovel tests were excavated along five parallel transects across the survey area. One artifact, consisting of a small wire nail fragment, was recovered from ST E-2. The nail fragment was recovered from a plow zone between a depth of cm and buried beneath a layer of displaced overburden. No additional materials were recovered from the survey area and no sites were identified. Survey Area 3 (Laydown Area 2) Figure 5-4: Survey Area 2 (Optional Laydown Area). Survey Area 3 consists of a 2.5-acre parcel of open field adjacent to U.S. Route 6 southwest of Survey Areas 1 and 2; it borders Carpenter Creek to the south and is separated from Survey Area 2 by a wood line (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-5). As in Survey Area 2, soils mapped entirely as very poorly drained Raynham silt loam (Ra). Twelve north/south transects (Transects A through L) were surveyed in this area proceeding south from U.S. Route 6 and ending at the wood line fronting Carpenter Creek. In total, 65 shovel tests were excavated, recovering two artifacts. One artifact consists of a single piece of stoneware recovered from ST J-7. As no other evidence of historic occupation was found in the area, the artifact was attributed to casual discard from past agricultural activities. The second artifact consists of a battered quartzite pebble recovered from ST I-5, and identified as a prehistoric hammer stone. Eight additional radial shovel tests placed around the find spot however, failed to identify additional prehistoric artifacts and the artifact was assigned Isolated Find A Survey Area 4 (Laydown Area 1) Figure 5-5: Survey Area 3 (Laydown Area 2). Survey Area 4 is located in the southwestern corner of the project area adjacent to U.S. Route 6 and on the western side of the unpaved access road servicing the agricultural fields (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-6). The 1.5-acre area consists of an artificial flat surface extending from U.S. Route 6 to the base of a steep hillside at the western project area boundary. Although soils in the survey area are mapped as sixty percent very poorly drained 32

6 Raynham silt loam (Ra), and forty percent Hoosic gravelly sandy loam with 3-8 percent slope (HoA), much of the area appeared disturbed from past mining. Hoosic series soils are somewhat excessively drained soils found in glacial outwash. Examination of the ground surface within the survey area showed complete absence of topsoil development indicative of former grading operations (Photograph 5-1). This past disturbance was likely associated with sand and gravel removal operations that are common to the surrounding area. In total, 13 shovel tests excavated along six transects confirmed these ground conditions, with six shovel tests identifying large cobbles at ground surface. No cultural material was recovered. Figure 5-6: Survey Area 4 (Laydown Area 1). On top of the hill outside the project area boundary, a small (9-x-9-m) family cemetery containing approximately 13 headstones was observed. The cemetery is known as the Cooley Cemetery and contains graves from the mid-nineteenth century. This cemetery is depicted on the modern USGS topographic map outside the southwestern corner of the project parcel, near the intersection of U.S. Route 6 and Interstate 84, and will not be impacted by the proposed project (see Figure 5-2). Photograph 5-1: View to south/southeast of mined gravel area, Survey Area 4 (Laydown Area 1). 33

7 Survey Areas 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 (Main Facility) Survey Area 5 (Main Facility) Survey Area 5 is located adjacent to U.S. Route 6 between Survey Area 4 and Survey Area 3 (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-7). It borders Carpenter Creek to the north and the field access road to the west. Soils in the survey area are mapped as fifty-five percent Nassau channery silt loam percent slope (NaD), twenty-five percent Madalin silt loam (Ma), and twenty percent very poorly drained Raynham silt loam (Ra). Nassau series soils are shallow, excessively drained soils formed in till. Madalin series soils are very poorly drained soils formed on lake plains and in depressions. The 2-acre parcel corresponds to a portion of the proposed Main Facility containing the facility entrance, parking area, administration building, and warehouse. In total, 13 shovel tests were excavated along five transects in the survey area. Two historic artifacts were recovered from shovel tests one is a piece of clear bottle glass recovered from ST A-1, and the other a small sherd of whiteware historic ceramic recovered from ST C-2. As no evidence of historic occupation was found in the area, both artifacts are attributed casual discard in the vicinity of U.S. Route 6 and the farm access road. No prehistoric artifacts were recovered in the survey area and no sites were identified. Survey Area 6 (Main Facility) Survey Area 6 is corresponds to a former agricultural field now supporting tall grasses in the southwestern portion of the project area (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-8). It is located adjacent and east of Survey Area 5 and approximately 60 m south of Carpenter Creek; a small wood line borders the survey are on its north side. Soils in the survey area are mapped as eighty-seven percent somewhat excessively Figure 5-7: Survey Area 5 (Main Facility). drained Hoosic gravely sandy loam and thirteen percent poorly drained Raynham silt loam. The 6-acre parcel corresponds to a portion of the proposed Main Facility containing the clarifier and air cooled condenser. At the time of survey, the tenant farmer mowed the tall grasses in the field, facilitating survey. Sixteen north-south transects were surveyed in the area. In total, 72 shovel tests were excavated, five of which were positive, yielding six prehistoric artifacts. One prehistoric archaeological site was identified based on the recovery of five chert biface thinning flakes and one piece of chert shatter. The site was designated A *. * The Addendum attached to the end of this document describes additional Phase I work conducted at this site. 34

8 Figure 5-8: Survey Area 6 (Main Facility). Survey Area 7 (Main Facility) Survey Area 7 consists of a 2-acre parcel corresponding to a small agricultural field located adjacent to and southwest of Survey Area 6, separated by a small wood line (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-9). The parcel corresponds to a portion of the proposed Main Facility containing the water treatment building and process water sump.. Soils in the survey area are mapped as eighty percent somewhat excessively drained Hoosic gravely sandy loam and twenty percent very poorly drained Madalin silt loam. In total, 21 shovel tests were excavated along six east-west transects in this area. No cultural material was recovered and no sites were identified. Survey Area 8 (Main Facility) Figure 5-9: Survey Area 7 (Main Facility). Survey Area 8 is the largest survey area encompassing approximately 13 acres of Main Facility. It lies adjacent to and southeast of Survey Area 6, separated by a wood line, and borders Interstate 84 to the south (see Figure 5-35

9 1; Figure 5-10). It corresponds to the proposed steam turbine generator, turbine building, and a portion of the storm water basin. The parcel consists of predominately open meadow and contains a marsh and springhead in its northeastern corner. Soils in the survey area are mapped as fifty-five percent somewhat excessively drained Hoosic gravelly sandy loam 3-8 percent slope (HoA), forty percent Rhinebeck silt loam with 0-3% slope (RbA), and five percent Madalin silt loam (Ma). Rhinebeck series soils are very deep, somewhat poorly drained soils formed in clayey lacustrine sediments. Figure 5-10: Survey Area 8 (Main Facility). In total, 161 shovel tests were excavated in the area along 22 north-south transects. One isolated find, consisting of a small chert biface fragment, likely representing the basal portion of a small projectile point was recovered from ST V-2. However, no additional artifacts were recovered from eight radial shovel tests excavated at one and three meter-intervals around the find spot. The artifact was assigned Isolated Find A Additionally, a single sherd of whiteware historic ceramic from the plowzone of T-6 and a wire nail from the plowzone of ST T-1 were observed but not retained. 36

10 Survey Area 9 (Main Facility) Survey Area 9 is a 7-acre parcel located in the southeastern corner of the project area and adjacent to Survey Area 8 to the west and borders Interstate 84 to the south (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-11). It corresponds to the proposed switchyard control building and eastern portion of the proposed storm water basin. Soils in the survey are mapped as ninety-eight percent somewhat poorly drained Rhinebeck silt loam and two percent very poorly drained Madalin silt loam. In total, 109 shovel test were excavated in the survey area - 76 along 11 north-south transects, and 33 site delineation shovel tests. As a result, one prehistoric archaeological site and one isolated find were identified. The site was identified from shovel tests G- 5, H-6, and K-1, which yielded chert bifacial thinning flakes; additional delineation shovels tests yielded a piece of chert shatter, a decortication flake and biface thinning flake. The site was designated A *. The isolated find consists of a single chert biface thinning flake recovered from shovel test C-5. * The Addendum attached to the end of this document describes additional Phase I work conducted at this site. Survey Areas 10 and 11 (Overhead Transmission Corridors) Survey Area 10 (Perimeter Overhead Transmission Corridor) The Perimeter Overhead Transmission Corridor would connect the Main Facility to existing electrical transmission lines located along NY Figure 5-11: Survey Area 9 (Main Facility). Route 17M east of the project area (see Figure 5-1, Figure The proposed 50-foot-wide corridor extends from the southeastern corner of Survey Area 9 for a distance of 3,250 feet to a point on the western side of NY Route 17M where it would connect to a underground transmission line. The corridor encompasses a total of 3.7 acres and crosses through a wooded area to the west and a large open meadow to the east, terminating at Carpenter Creek. The corridor is almost entirely flat crossing poorly drained intermittent wetlands. Soils along corridor are mapped as fifty-five percent very poorly drained Madalin silt loam (Ma), thirty percent somewhat poorly drained Rhinebeck silt loam (RbA), fifteen percent somewhat poorly drained Erie gravelly silt loam. 37

11 Figure 5-12: Survey Area 10 (Perimeter Overhead Transmission Corridor). 38

12 In total, 71 shovel tests were excavated in the corridor including radials excavated at two find locations. As a result of the survey, one prehistoric site (A ) and one isolated find (IF A ) were identified. The prehistoric site, represented by a chert decortication flake and chert bifacial thinning flake, was identified in shovel test A-7. In addition, one of eight delineation tests yielded a small triangular projectile point manufactured from slate. The site was designated A The projectile point is similar to a Brewerton Eared-Triangle type dating to the Late Archaic period. The isolated find (A ) consists of a single utilized flake (flake tool) manufactured form chert, and recovered from shovel test A-1. No additional artifacts were recovered from radials excavated around the find spot. Survey Area 11 (Straight Shot Corridor) The Straight Shot Overhead Transmission Corridor is proposed as an alternate to the Perimeter Corridor and would connect the Main Facility to existing electrical transmission lines located along NY Route 17M east of the project area (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-13). The proposed 50-foot-wide corridor extends from the southeastern corner of Survey Area 9 for a distance of 2,880 feet to a point on the western side of NY Route 17M where it would connect to a underground transmission line. The corridor encompasses a total of 3.2 acres and crosses through predominately wooded area crossing Carpenter Creek at two locations before terminating at the underground interconnect. Soils along the corridor are mapped as fifty percent very poorly drained Madalin silt loam (Ma), thirtyfive percent somewhat poorly drained Rhinebeck silt loam (RbA), and fifteen percent somewhat poorly drained Erie gravelly silt loam (ErA). Saturated conditions were present along the northern portion of the corridor at the creek channel crossings, precluding shovel testing. In total, 47 shovel tests were excavated at 15-m intervals along a single transect in the corridor. No archaeological materials were recovered and no sites were identified. Survey Area 12 (Underground Interconnect) Survey Area 12 consists of the proposed location of a buried north-south electrical interconnect line that would link the eastern terminal of overhead transmission line emanating from the power plant to existing utilities along NY Route 17M (see Figure 5-1; Figure 5-14). The proposed line is located almost entirely within an existing utility corridor along the western shoulder of NY Route 17M. This is a developed area that has been previously disturbed from past road construction and installation of utilities. The only undisturbed portion is a small area at the overhead interconnect and Carpenter Creek crossing. Once through the creek, the proposed line would parallel NY Route 17M and proceed to the north beneath U.S. Route 6, before tying into existing power grid. Soils in this area are mapped predominantly as Scarboro mucky sandy loam but have been modified by road construction and modern development. Three shovel tests were excavated in the vicinity of Carpenter Creek but did not yield cultural materials. Pedestrian survey was conducted of the remaining area documenting the existing utility corridors and road crossings photographically (Photographs 5-2, 5-3, and 5-4). Photograph angles are shown on Figure

13 Figure 5-13: Survey Area 11 (Straight Shot Overhead Transmission Corridor). 40

14 41 CPV Valley Energy Center, Wawayanda, New York

15 Photograph 5-2: View south of southern portion of Underground Interconnect along NY Route 17M. Photograph 5-3: View north of Underground Interconnect in existing utility corridor along NY Route 17M. Photograph 5-4: View south of north portion of Underground Interconnect in existing utility corridor along NY Route 17M. 42

16 NEWLY RECORDED SITES Phase I archaeological survey of the CPV Valley project area resulted in the identification of four newly recorded archaeological sites and five isolated finds (Table 5-2). The following section provides more detailed descriptions of the sites, recovered artifacts, and interpretation of site function. Overall estimated research value and National Register eligibility recommendations are provided in Chapter 6. Table Newly Recorded Sites and Isolated Finds. Site Number Survey Area Site Type Recovered Artifacts A Short-term, single component camp 2 chert shatter, 4 chert biface thinning flakes, and 1 chert decortication flake A Short-term, single component camp 1 chert shatter, 5 chert biface thinning flakes. A Short-term, Late Archaic single component camp 1 slate Brewerton Eared-Triangle, 1 chert shatter, 1 chert decortication and 1 chert biface thinning flake A Short-term, single component camp 1 quartz crystal, 1 chert flake fragment, and 1 quartzite decortication flake IF A Stray find 1 quartzite battered pebble IF A Stray find 1 chert shatter with cortex IF A Stray find 1 chert biface fragment (poss. projectile point fragment) IF A Stray find 1 chert utilized flake IF A Stray find 1 chert biface thinning flake Site A Site A * consists of a small prehistoric lithic scatter identified in Survey Area 9 in an open meadow on gently sloping topography approximately 250 ft north Interstate 84 at an elevation of 476 ft amsl (see Figures 5-1, 5-2, and 5-11; Figure 5-15, Photograph 5-5). This area corresponds to the southeastern portion of the proposed Main Facility. The site has approximate dimensions of 35-x-70-m (116-x-231-ft). In total, seven lithic artifacts, consisting of two pieces of chert shatter, four chert bifacial thinning flakes, and one chert decortication flake were recovered from five positive shovel tests excavated at the site. All artifacts were recovered from the plowzone to a maximum depth of 26 cm below ground surface. Photograph 5-5: Site A , view to the north. (photo angle Figure 5-1) No diagnostic artifacts were recovered and no subplowzone features were identified. Representative 43

17 soil profiles are shown in Figure 5-16; shovel test summaries from the site are provided in Appendix B. Site A is interpreted as a short-term, single component camp or special purpose area used for tool maintenance and processing of food resources during the Late Archaic period. * The Addendum attached to the end of this document describes additional Phase I work conducted at this site. Figure 5-15: Site plan A Figure 5-16: Site A representative soil profiles. 44

18 Site A Site A * consists of a small prehistoric lithic scatter identified in Survey Area 6 in the west-central portion of the project area in an open grassy field (see Figure 5-1, 5-2, and 5-8; Figure 5-17). The site has maximum dimensions of 35-x-85-m (116-x-280-ft) and is located approximately 205 m south of Carpenter Creek at an elevation of elevation of 475 ft amsl. The area corresponds to the western portion of the proposed Main Facility. A total of six lithic artifacts were recovered from five positive shovel tests excavated at the site. The artifacts consist of one piece of chert shatter and five chert biface thinning flakes. All artifacts were recovered from the plowzone to a maximum depth of 30 cm below ground surface. No diagnostic artifacts were recovered and no subplowzone features were identified. Representative soil profiles are shown in Figure 5-18; shovel test summaries from the site are provided in Appendix B. As with Site A , Photograph 5-6: Site A , view to the southwest. (photo angle Figure 5-1) site A likely represents a short-term, single component camp or special purpose area used for tool maintenance and processing of food resources. It is likely contemporaneous with nearby site A , probably dating to the Late Archaic period. * The Addendum attached to the end of this document describes additional Phase I work conducted at this site. 45

19 Figure 5-17: Site plan A Figure Site A representative soil profiles. 46

20 Site A Site A consists of a small prehistoric lithic scatter identified in Survey Area 10 (Perimeter Overhead Corridor) in the south-central portion of the project area (see Figures 5-1, 5-2, and 5-12; Figure 5-19). The site is located in a wooded area on flat terrain at an elevation of 475 ft amsl. It measures 2.5-x-5 (8-x-16-ft) and lies approximately 250 feet north of Interstate 84. In total, four lithic artifacts, including one diagnostic projectile point, were recovered from two positive shovel tests excavated at the site. Lithic debitage recovered consists of one piece of chert shatter, a chert decortication flake, and a chert biface thinning flake. All artifacts were recovered from a former plowzone to a maximum depth of 33 cm below ground surface, beneath a 10-cm-thick forest mat. Representative soil profiles are shown in Figure 5-20; shovel test summaries from the site are provided in Appendix B. Figure Site plan A

21 Figure Site A representative soil profiles. The projectile point consists of a triangular-shaped point manufactured from slate and measures 42.5 mm in lengthx-17.5 mm in width; it has a maximum thickness of 4 mm. The artifact closely resembles the Brewerton Eared-Triangle as typed by Ritchie (1980:92-93) and dated to the Late Archaic period in this region (Photograph 5-7). No subplowzone features were identified from shovel tests at the site. Site A is interpreted as a short-term, single component camp or special purpose area used for tool maintenance and processing of food resources. It is likely contemporaneous with nearby sites A and A , definitively dating to the Late Archaic period. Photograph 5-7: Slate Brewerton-eared-triangle projectile point (Site A ). Site A Site A consists of a small prehistoric lithic scatter identified in Survey Area 1 in the northeastern portion of the project area in an open grassy field approximately 200 feet south of U.S. Route 6 (see Figures 5-1, 5-2 and 5-3; Figure 5-21; Photograph 5-8). The site has maximum dimensions of 2-x-3 m (7-x-10-ft). It lies on a gentle slope approximately 140 m north of Carpenter Creek at an elevation of 468 ft amsl. In total, two pieces of lithic debitage and one quartz crystal were recovered from three positives shovel tests at the site. The lithic debitage consists of a chert flake fragment and a quartzite decortication flake; the quartz crystal is a naturally occurring stone that may have been brought to the site by humans. All artifacts were recovered from the plowzone to a maximum depth of 28 cm below ground surface. Representative soil profiles are shown in Figure 5-22; shovel test summaries from the site are provided in Appendix B. 48

22 Figure Site plan A Figure Site A representative soil profiles. 49

23 No diagnostic artifacts or subplowzone features were identified. As with the three other lithic scatters recorded in the project area, the site is interpreted as a short-term, single component camp or special purpose area used for tool maintenance and processing of food resources. It is likely contemporaneous with nearby sites A , A , and A dating to the Late Archaic period. Photograph 5-8. Site A , view to the southeast. (photo angle Figure 5-1) 50

24 ISOLATED FINDS Isolated Find A Isolated Find A consists of a battered quartzite pebble recovered from Survey Area 3 in the northwestern portion of the project area (see Figures 5-1, 5-2 and 5-5; Photograph 5-9). It was recovered from the plowzone in ST H-5 located in an open field 68 m northwest of Carpenter Creek at an elevation of 459 ft amsl. The battered quartzite pebble shows use wear on one end consistent with a small hammerstone used for lithic tool manufacture or processing of natural resources. No additional artifacts were recovered from eight radial shovel tests excavated around the find spot. Isolated Find A Photograph 5-9: Battered quartzite pebble recovered from Survey Area 3 (A ) Isolated find A consists of a single piece of chert shatter with cortex recovered from a 27-cm-thick plowzone deposit in ST H-1 in Survey Area 1 (see Figures 5-1, 5-2 and 5-3). The artifact weighs 39.4 g and was recovered from in an open field just south of U.S. Route 6 and approximately 140 m northwest of Carpenter Creek at an elevation of 485 ft amsl. The single fragment of chert shatter is associated with lithic tool reduction may represent testing of local fieldstone. No additional artifacts were recovered from eight radial shovel tests excavated around the find spot. Isolated Find A Isolated find A consists of a small, chert biface fragment, possibly the lateral edge of a shattered projectile point, recovered from the plowzone in ST V-2 in Survey Area 8 in the central portion of the project area (see Figures 5-1, 5-2 and 5-10; Photograph 5-10). The find spot is in an open field approximately 150 m southeast of Carpenter Creek at 467 feet amsl. No additional artifacts were recovered from eight radial shovel tests excavated around the find spot. The former finished tool was likely broken during local hunting activity. Photograph 5-10: Chert biface, projectile point fragment (IF A ). 51

25 Isolated Find A Isolated find A consists of a chert flake fragment with utilized edge, recovered from recovered from the plowzone in ST A- 1 at the eastern end of the Perimeter Overhead Transmission Corridor (Survey Area 10) (see Figures 5-1, 5-2, and 5-12; Photograph 5-11). The find spot is located approximately 10 m south of the right bank of Carpenter Creek in an open field at an elevation of 469 ft amsl. The single artifact shows evidence of use wear on one edge characteristic of expedient tool manufacture and use. No additional artifacts were recovered from eight radial shovel tests excavated around the find spot. Photograph 5-11: Utilized chert flake (IF A ) Isolated Find A Isolated find A consists of a single chert biface thinning flake recovered from recovered from the plowzone in ST C-1 in Survey Area 9 located in the southeastern portion of the project area (see Figures 5-1, 5-2, and 5-11). The find spot is in an open field at an elevation of 469 feet amsl and approximately 150 m north of Interstate 84, and 100 m west of site A No additional artifacts were recovered from eight radial shovel tests excavated around the find spot. 52

26 CHAPTER 6 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS National Register Recommendations A Phase IA and IB archaeological survey was conducted of approximately 45 acres in support of permitting activities for the planned development and construction of the CPV Valley Energy Center and transmission corridor located in the Town of Wawayanda, Orange County, New York. The construction impact area included a main facility, laydown areas, overhead electrical transmission corridor (two options), and an underground interconnect to connect generated electrical power to existing utilities. Cultural resources background research indicated a moderate to high potential for identifying prehistoric sites in the survey area, based on the known location of sites in the surrounding area. Historic map research showed no previous historic occupation the project impact areas. The field survey consisted of systematic excavation of standard shovel tests at 15-m intervals within all proposed impact areas where shovel testing was possible. In total, 708 shovel tests were excavated the project area recovering a total of 28 artifacts. As a result of the survey, four newly recorded prehistoric archaeological sites (A , A , A and A ) and five isolated finds (A , A , A , A , and A ) were identified. This chapter provides summaries of the four archeological sites recorded during the Phase I and provides recommendations on the eligibility of each site for inclusion in the National Register. The sites are reviewed in terms of regional research issues and possible information yields that could result from further research. Each archaeological site identified in the CPV Valley project area was evaluated with reference to the criteria of eligibility for inclusion in the National Register, as set forth in 36 CFR 60.4, and based on guidelines set forth by the National Park Service (1993) (Table 6-1). The four criteria of eligibility evaluation are: Criterion A: Properties that are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or Criterion B: Properties that are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or Criterion C: Properties 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 Criterion D: Properties that have yielded or may likely yield information important to history or prehistory [36 CFR 60.4]. Table Research Potential and National Register Eligibility Recommendations Site Number Site Type/Cultural Affiliation Estimate of Research Potential A Prehistoric lithic scatter/ Poor Probable Late Archaic A Prehistoric lithic scatter/ Poor Probable Late Archaic A Prehistoric lithic scatter/ Late Poor Archaic Brewerton A Prehistoric lithic scatter/ Poor Probable Late Archaic National Register Recommendation Not eligible Not eligible Not eligible Not eligible 53

27 INDIVIDUAL SITE SUMMARIES Site A Site A * consists of a 35-x-70-m (116-x-231-ft) prehistoric lithic scatter located in an open meadow on gently sloping terrain. In total, seven lithic artifacts, consisting of two pieces of chert shatter, four chert bifacial thinning flakes, and one chert decortication flake were recovered from five positive shovel tests excavated at the site. All artifacts were recovered from the plowzone to a maximum depth of 26 cm below ground surface. No diagnostic artifacts were recovered and no subplowzone features were identified. Site A likely represents a short-term, single component camp or special purpose area used for tool maintenance and processing of subsistence resources during the Late Archaic period. Further investigation of site A is not likely to enhance our understanding of local or regional prehistory and the site is recommended as ineligible for inclusion in the National Register under Criterion D. As such, no further work is recommended. * The Addendum attached to the end of this document describes additional Phase I work conducted at this site. Site A Site A * consists of a 35-x-85-m (116-x-280-ft) prehistoric lithic scatter located in an open grassy field 205 m south of Carpenter Creek. In total, six lithic artifacts were recovered from five positive shovel tests excavated at the site. The artifacts consist of one piece of chert shatter and five chert biface thinning flakes. All artifacts were recovered from the plowzone to a maximum depth of 30 cm below ground surface. No diagnostic artifacts were recovered and no subplowzone features were identified. Site A likely represents a shortterm, single component camp or special purpose area used for tool maintenance and processing of subsistence resources. It is likely contemporaneous with nearby sites, probably dating to the Late Archaic period. Further investigation of site A is not likely to enhance our understanding of local or regional prehistory and the site is recommended as ineligible for inclusion in the National Register under Criterion D. As such, no further work is recommended. * The Addendum attached to the end of this document describes additional Phase I work conducted at this site. Site A Site A consists of a 2.5-x-5 (8-x-16-ft) prehistoric lithic scatter identified in a wooded area on flat terrain in the Perimeter Overhead Corridor near Interstate 84. In total, four lithic artifacts, including one diagnostic projectile point, were recovered from two positive shovel tests excavated at the site. Lithic debitage consists of one piece of chert shatter, one chert decortication flake, and one chert biface thinning flake. All artifacts were recovered from a former plowzone to a maximum depth of 33 cm below ground surface and underlying a 10-cm-thick forest mat. The projectile point consists of a triangular-shaped point manufactured from slate and closely resembles the Brewerton Eared-Triangle as typed by Ritchie (1980:92-93) and dated to the Late Archaic period. No subplowzone features were identified from shovel tests. Site A likely represents a short-term, single component camp or special purpose area used as a hunting station, tool maintenance and processing of subsistence resources. It is likely contemporaneous with other small lithic scatters found in the project area and vicinity. Further investigation of site A is not likely to enhance our understanding of local or regional prehistory and the site is recommended as ineligible for inclusion in the National Register under Criterion D. As such, no further work is recommended. Site A Site A consists of a 2-x-3-m (7-x-10-ft) prehistoric lithic scatter identified in an open grassy field with gentle slope approximately 140 m north of Carpenter Creek. In total, two pieces of lithic debitage and one quartz 54

28 crystal were recovered from three positive shovel tests. The lithic debitage consists of a chert flake fragment and a quartzite decortication flake; the quartz crystal is a naturally occurring stone that may have been brought to the site by humans. All artifacts were recovered from the plowzone to a maximum depth of 28 cm below ground surface. No diagnostic artifacts or subplowzone features were identified. As with the three other lithic scatters recorded in the project area, the site likely represents a short-term, single component camp or special purpose area used for tool maintenance and processing of subsistence resources. It is likely contemporaneous with other nearby lithic scatters dating to the Late Archaic period. Further investigation of site A is not likely to enhance our understanding of local or regional prehistory and the site is recommended as ineligible for inclusion in the National Register under Criterion D. As such, no further work is recommended. Isolated Finds By definition, the five prehistoric isolated finds (A , A , A , A , and A ) identified in the project area do not represent loci of sustained human activity and are not considered eligible for inclusion in the National Register. CONCLUSIONS As described above, all four prehistoric sites identified in the CPV Valley project area consist of small and low density lithic scatters indicative of use of the area for resource extraction and subsistence activities most likely during the Late Archaic period. Each site is considered ephemeral in nature, has a relative paucity of material remains, and low probability for recovering additional materials that would change our interpretation of site activity or function or our knowledge of local or regional prehistory. As such, none of the sites is recommended as eligible for inclusion in the National Register under Criterion D. Criteria A, B, and C are not applicable to these resources. Typically, prehistoric archaeological sites eligible for inclusion in the National Register have the ability through data recovery and analysis to address a broad range of research issues that would further our understanding and knowledge of human adaptation, behavioral processes, subsistence activities, and settlement patterns in a project region. The four sites identified in the CPV Valley project area all contain very low frequencies of artifacts reflective of temporary or marginal use of the area. An absence of pottery from the project sites, coupled with the presence of a diagnostic Brewerton projectile point, is indicative of Late Archaic occupation. However, no evidence of long-term settlement is indicated. The low frequencies of lithic debitage recovered from each site is indicative of tool maintenance (bifacial thinning flakes), and expedient tool technology (utilized flake and decortications flakes) during pursuit of local subsistence activities. In contrast to low density lithic sites, high density lithic sites may show a spectrum of lithic reduction and tool manufacturing techniques and technological changes linked to adaptation and/or changes in environmental conditions over time. An example of one such site is the Orange County Landfill site (A ) discussed in Chapter 3 of this report and located in the nearby Walkill River valley approximately 1.5 miles southeast of the CPV Valley project area (Hunter and Cavallo 1989). Data recovery at that National Register-eligible site recovered more than 2000 lithic specimens including a wide range of tool types reflective of long-term use and repeated occupation. The recovery of diverse lithic raw materials at that site was interpreted as a response to various forms of social dynamics, such as long-distance trade and exchange, cultural interaction spheres, or specialized activities favoring certain raw materials. In contrast, almost all lithic debitage recovered from the CPV Valley sites (flakes and shatter) appears to be regionally derived chert raw specimens of which were observed as fieldstone in the project area. The four archaeological sites and five isolated finds identified in the CPV Valley project area appear to be a local manifestation of general trends known for the Late Archaic period in this region of New York. As described in Chapter 3, during this period, populations rapidly increased and a wider variety of ecotones began to be exploited. The subsistence and settlement system of the Late Archaic saw dramatic increases in both the number of sites and the diversity of seasonally focused activities that occurred at different site types. The four sites identified in the CPV Valley project area do not appear to contain that research value, and further investigation of the sites is unlikely to change our interpretation or contribute to our present understanding of the region s prehistory, and no further study is recommended. 55

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