Multi-Method Geophysics in the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness, Idaho

Summary

The Frank Church – River of No Return Wilderness in central Idaho contains numerous prehistoric archaeological sites being impacted by recreational use. Sites located along the wild and scenic portion of the Middle Fork Salmon River are especially at-risk because of the thousands of visitors who regularly camp along the river within sensitive site areas. Non-ground disturbing methods were needed to determine whether the sites retain sub-surface integrity. Eight sites have been investigated using geophysical methods such as fluxgate gradiometry, earth resistance electrical resistivity, magnetic susceptibility, multi-depth electrical conductivity and handheld portable XRF for soil chemistry. The objective of this work is to develop long-term management strategies for the protection of at-risk sites using minimally invasive methods to protect the archaeological sites while still allowing current levels of recreational use. Results of the multi-method geophysical investigations are presented.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 83rd Annual Meeting, Washington, DC (2018)

Keywords

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 18711