NPS Tasks GeomorphIS to Perform Archaeology Monitoring on Little Bighorn Battlefield NM

The National Park Service (NPS) has tasked the GeomorphIS/Hope Archaeology/US West Research team to provide archaeological monitoring for the Water and Wastewater Rehabilitation Project on the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Wyoming. Ground disturbance is expected to occur through the use of mechanical excavation machines for the water and wastewater pipe install. A portion of the water (approximately 500‐LF) will be installed with trenchless underground boring but requires excavated pits at each end. The GeomorphIS team archaeologist will monitor ground disturbing activities for cultural materials. If cultural materials are found, the archaeologist will begin screening the backdirt for artifacts (using ¼” or finer hardware cloth screen). Locations of discovery (if known) will be mapped via GPS techniques. If any intact cultural deposits are discovered in the surveyed area, construction work in that area will stop to allow the finds be documented and mitigated. Artifact collection and additional documentation or testing will be determined by the archaeologist in consultation with the park Cultural Resources Manager based on the depositional and diagnostic nature of the items discovery.