An Archeological Survey along a proposed Reroute of Farm-to-Market 170 through Lajitas, Brewster County, Texas

In July 2004 personnel from the Center for Big Bend Studies of Sul Ross State University conducted an archeological survey along a proposed reroute of Farm-to-Market 170 through Lajitas, Texas. The project was undertaken to assess expected environmental impacts from construction of the roadway. Subsurface inspections of the highway corridor in alluvial settings were achieved through cut bank and man-made exposures and shovel tests. A single, previously unknown archeological site was identified (41BS1493)—a prehistoric open campsite. One hearth at this site was excavated and provided significant data on the Late Archaic period, thus the site is eligible for both state and federal protective designations. However, excavation of the hearth resulted in full mitigation of the site, therefore, the construction associated with the project will not adversely affect cultural resources eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. There were no artifact collections made during this investigation.

* Contact the Center at (432) 837-8179 or at cbbs@sulross.edu to obtain a photocopy.