Project Overview
ESE Partners recently conducted an intensive mechanically augmented cultural resources survey of a proposed 18.7-Mile powerline, in Cameron County, Texas. A local electric cooperative is planning to construct a 35 kilovolt (kV) powerline within the existing Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and county roadway rights-of-way (ROWs).
In June of 2021, ESE archeologists conducted an intensive mechanically augmented cultural resources survey of the area of potential effect. The survey included surface survey, the placement of 294 shovel tests, and the excavation and monitoring of 59 backhoe trenches. Trenching entailed the cleaning and documentation of a 39-inch (1-m)-wide section of trench wall for each trench, inspection of back dirt as it was placed upon the ground surface, and screening or trowel-sorting samples of the excavated soil matrix. Prefield archival work included the study of topographic maps, aerial orthoimagery, previously documented sites, and reports of investigations from previous archeological studies conducted in the immediate area.
No standing structures of historic age were noted on or directly adjacent to the project area, but five archeological sites had previously been recorded within the TxDOT ROW. The archeological survey produced no artifacts or cultural features within the disturbed ROW. Due to the absence of significant surface or subsurface artifacts or features, the probability for significant cultural sites within the project area was considered extremely low. Based on research results, it was ESE’s opinion that no cultural resources will be impacted by development within the proposed 18.7-Mile (30 km) powerline. ESE recommended the project be allowed to proceed as planned, a recommendation with which the Texas Historical Commission agreed. Regulatory clearance was granted for the undertaking.
Services Performed
- Mechanically Augmented Cultural Resources Survey
Scale
- 18.7-miles
- 294 shovel tests
- Excavation and monitoring of 59 backhoe trenches
