Cultural Resource Reconnaissance of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Land Alongside Lake Sakakawea in Dunn County, North Dakota. Volume 1. Main Report

Abstract

Abstract : A cultural resource reconnaissance of the left (north) bank of Lake Sakakawea was conducted in 1985-1986 by the survey located 176 new sites and evaluated 48 previously recorded sites. The majority of the sites are classified as artifact scatters, stone circle sites and historic Euro-American sites. Twelve depressions are classified as eagle trapping pits. Other site types include stone cairns, stone alignments, circular stone settings and unassigned depressions. Diagnostic projectile points spanning the Late Paleoindian period through the Late Prehistoric period were recovered, although most were identified as Late Archaic and Late Prehistoric. Sites were analyzed for locational patterns and a management plan was developed in regard to the research potential of the sites and the adverse impacts presently occurring. The most important sites in the survey area are felt to be the multi-component artifact scatters and complex stone circle sites. A number of sites are considered potentially eligible for nomination to the National Register. Shoreline erosion is the major adverse effect occurring at a number of sites. Keywords: Culture resources surveys; Sites preservations; American Indian artifacts; resource management/lakes.