5.1. SR 09-22-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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sets of parameters. (1) Environmental Determinants (e.g. humans cannot occupy steep slopes or live in constantly swampy areas), (2) Environmental Preferences (e.g. prehistoric peoples preferred to live close to wetlands where they found abundant natural resources), and (3) Cultural Preferences (e.g. settlements congregate along roads, trails and rivers). To develop the model topographic and environmental data will be inducted into the GIS to create base maps. Because landscapes have changed over time, modeling of earlier landscapes will be conducted as part of the project. As human choices in settlement and landscape use patterns are a complex interrelationship of preferences, necessity and habits, a system of"fuzzylogic" is used to create the actual predictive model. "Fuzzy logic" allows multiple values to be weighed and also allows for a possibility of choices. The model generates a spectrum of probability that one would find an archaeological site in a certain location. This spectrum then can be simplified, for most usages, into 3 to 5 probability levels, depending on the intended purpose of the users of the model. Because the model is being developed for the preservation and planning needs of the city, consultations will be made during the model development to make sure it is of maximum utility. As the parameters for Native American and Euro-American landscape usage can be substantially different, in actuality two predictive models will be created. Limited Field Testing of Predictive Utility and Potential: Field testing will be conducted to test the potential and utility of the model. Standard testing for a predictive model involves surface examination and shovel testing as necessary in areas of high, medium and low probability. As we will be utilizing a previously tested model and to maximize the utility of the project, we will use a modified testing technique that will allow us to select areas of particular interest for testing. In other words, we will not simply do random testing in areas of different potential, but rather will test areas that are of particular interest or concern as identified in the course of the study. Budgetary limitations will limit field testing to what can be conducted by a team of 3-4 individuals in 7 work days. Preliminary Evaluation for National Register Eligibility: Preliminary Evaluation will be conducted as possible within funding limits. The project will collect and organize data and reports on archaeological sites in a manner that will facilitate preparation of National Register nominations. This will be done in cooperation and consultation with the State Historic Preservation Office and the Sherbume County Historical Society. Professional Qualifications The project will be directed by Prof. Richard M. Rothaus of St. Cloud State University. Prof. Rothaus holds a PhD from Ohio State University and is a Registered Professional Archaeologist. He has done archaeological fieldwork in the United States, Greece, Turkey and India. A full resume can be found at the end of this document. Additional staff for the project will be selected as appropriate and necessary. All work will be performed by qualified individuals, and field testing will be conducted by personnel with extensive excavation experience in Minnesota.