POLLEN ANALYSIS AT SYSSIPHEUS SHELTER, 5GF110, IN WESTERN COLORADO

Summary

Palynological analysis at the Syssipheus Rockshelter (5GFIIO) was undertaken in conjunction with archaeological mitigation of the site in preparation for widening highway 1-70. The rockshelter is formed by a large boulder protruding from the ground; the occupied area being on the downhill side of the boulder. Pollen analysis of several stratigraphic columns overlapping in age was undertaken to define paleoenvironmental change in the vicinity of 5GFllO, Syssipheus Shelter. Several stratigraphic columns were sampled because the floor of the rockshelter sloped severely, thus a complete sampling of all levels for paleoenvironmental interpretation could not be obtained from a single column. This rockshelter contains evidence of occupation dating between 4400 and 520 BP, and is located at an elevation of approximately 5200 feet, one mile northwest of the Colorado River in Garfield County. The vegetation in the immediate vicinity of the site consists of Juniperus (juniper), Graminae (grasses), Atriplex (spiny saltbush), and Artemisia (sagebrush). Sarcobatus (greasewood) and Opuntia (prickly pear) are also noted in the vicinity of the site. A riparian habitat is found approximately one mile southeast of the site on the banks of the Colorado River.

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