The Use Of Geophysical Surveys For Archaeological Excavation Planning At The Mitchell Springs Ruins In Cortez, Colorado

Description

In the spring of 2001, a detailed geophysical survey using magnetics, 2-dimensional resistivity imaging and ground penetrating radar techniques was conducted at the prehistoric archaeological complex of Mitchell Springs Ruins in Cortez, Colorado. The purpose of this survey was to test the efficacy of geophysical methods for pre-evaluating suspected Anasazi ruins within selected areas of the site prior to archaeological excavation. These methods provided significant insight into the shallow subsurface material characteristics, and were valuable aids in guiding excavation activities during the summer of 2001 field school. This paper presents the results of this survey, with special attention to how these results were used to develop an archaeological exploration strategy. Field verification of various geophysical anomalies was completed during the summer 2001 field program at seventeen two meter by two meter grid locations, and identified a pueblo with connecting rooms, several deep storage pits, and three burials