An Archaeological Survey of High Probability Areas within Geokinetics, USA, Inc.'s Perry Ranch 3-D Seismic Survey in Brazoria and Matagorda Counties, Texas: Volume 1: The Terrestrial Survey

Abstract

An archaeological survey of the Geokinetics USA, Inc.’s Perry Ranch 3-D seismic survey was conducted by Brazos Valley Research Associates (BVRA) in conjunction with Dixie Environmental Services Company (DESCO), LP from June 13, 2008 through July 18, 2008. A previous avoidance plan prepared for Quantum Geophysical, Inc. (now Geokinetics USA, Inc.) by BVRA identified high probability areas within the 88.6 square mile seismic project area. The client wants to drill within some of the high probability areas identified by BVRA in the avoidance plan (Moore and Baxter 2007). Therefore, archaeological investigations were required prior to drilling. These investigations visited 360 source point locations and conducted shovel testing or visual inspection in those areas that were not disturbed or under water. No previously unrecorded prehistoric sites were found during the terrestrial survey. In all, 361 source points were investigated. It is estimated that 2401 square feet was investigated at each source point. A total of 866,761 square feet (19.90 acres) was surveyed within the terrestrial high probability area, and no prehistoric or historic sites were found. However, a single grave containing the remains of Alcinda Bluitt was observed. The date on the headstone reads _809 – 1929. No additional information regarding this person was found during our research.

In addition to the terrestrial survey, a magnetometer survey of 177 source point locations was required due to the presence of an area considered by the State Marine Archeologist to be a high probability area for shipwrecks. This work was performed by PBS&J of Austin, and their report is presented as Volume II. The nautical survey found one anomaly in the current project area that resembled a magnetic signature that may represent a shipwreck. The source point involved was relocated to a point outside the 300-foot buffer. Another source point was also moved because of a location conflict with another presumed shipwreck anomaly found on a previous survey by PBS&J (Hudson et al. 2008) performed after the avoidance plan was submitted. The two potential shipwreck sites were avoided by moving the source points.

It is, therefore, recommended that the client be allowed to conduct the 3-D seismic survey as planned. Copies of the final report are on file at the Texas Historical Commission (THC), United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Galveston District, DESCO, and BVRA. The field crew did not collect any artifacts.