An Archaeological Survey for the Cottonwood Energy LP Project in Newton and Orange Counties, Texas

Abstract

Brazos Valley Research Associates (BVRA) performed a cultural resources survey of a 52 acre Cottonwood Energy LP power plant site and a four mile effluent discharge line in August 2003 in southern Newton and northern Orange counties, Texas. This study was required by the Texas Historical Commission in order to identify any archaeological sites in the project area that may have been adversely affected by recent construction. This investigation falls under Section 106 requirements of the National Historic Preservation Act, and no Antiquities Permit from the Texas Historical Commission was required. The project area was investigated by a 100% pedestrian surface survey accompanied by shovel testing and probing. No archaeological sites were found within the boundaries of the project area that has been virtually destroyed by construction. Although several areas appeared on the topographic maps to be good settings for prehistoric sites, soils in these locations consisted primarily of very firm clay at or near the surface.