Geomorphic Investigation of the Bayou Bodcau and Tributaries Project Area, Louisiana
Abstract
A geomorphic investigation was conducted to serve as a guide for estimating the potential location of cultural resources (archaeological sites) in the Bayou Bodcau and Tributaries Project Area and to describe the environmental context of those sites which may be located during the subsequent cultural resources survey. The investigation was designed to provide the archaeologist with three types of information including (a) definition and delineation of geomorphic features in the study area, (b) development of a chronology for the geomorphic features, and (c) estimation of the probability of the existence of buried geomorphic features of archaeological significance. Geomorphic features of the study area were defined on the basis of interpretation of aerial photographs, topographic maps, soil maps, borings, and field observations. These geomorphic features, delineated on four 7-minute (1:24,000) USGS topographic quadrangles, included abandoned channels, abandoned courses, raft distributary channels, overflow channels, natural levees, crevasses, point bars, backswamps, rimswamps, valley margin lakes, upland scarps, and historic accretion deposits. Based on the consideration of the apparent geomorphic development of the study area and several basic assumptions of environmental preference of prehistoric cultures, recommendations for the cultural resources survey of the impacted area are made.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA119988
Entities
People
- Lawson M. Smith