VAFB-1984-23: Archaeological Site Modification in Dunes (M.A. Thesis)

Summary

This is a preliminary study of the rates at which the wind alters archaeological deposits on the San Antonio Terrace. The study was undertaken as an adjunct to ongoing archaeological work on the terrace in advance of M-X Missile test facilities construction.

The San Antonio Terrace is partially overlain by dunes believed to be less than 2,000 years old (Johnson 1983, Cooper 1967). Johnson labeled the very active dunes near the beach "recent" and the more vegetated dunes farther inland "intermediate" admitting that dunes in these two categories are all relatively recent. These overlie old dunes which are believed to date to the early/mid-Holocene period.

More than 100 archaeological sites have been recorded on the Terrace and 95 of these are situated in the recent and intermediate dunes. Casual observation suggests that many artifacts and much sand have been transported by the almost constant and often forceful northwesterly winds. On windy days, for example, the surface of the dunes is blurred by a layer of saltating grains and the dunes seem to smoke as sand is blown from their crests. At such times, producent archaeological survey and excavation crews wear eye protection against blown sand. Also, during winds, cultural materials (debitage and shell) can be seen flipping along the surface. Given these conditions, archaeological studies in the active regions of the Terrace should be undertaken with the understanding that many Terrace sites have been altered extensively by the wind.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) - Cultural Resource Report

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Corinne Holloway

Record Identifiers

VAFB Document Number(s): VAFB-1984-23

File Information