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SITE EVALUATION: PHASE II PROJECTS

"The primary goals of Phase II Cultural Resource Investigations are to obtain detailed information on the integrity, limits, structure, function, and cultural/historical context of an archaeological site sufficient to evaluate its potential National Register eligibility." (Standards, Section 3.1)

What is a Phase II Site Evaluation?

A Phase II site evaluation involves additional research and excavation to collect the data necessary for evaluating a site's data potential and research significance. A Phase II obtains detailed data on the boundaries, age, function, integrity, and significance in support of a recommendation for National Register eligibility.

During a Phase II investigation, archaeologists will perform the following:

additional background research, especially for historic sites, to better define the site's context and type (e.g., deed and census information helps define the historic household; regional museum collections help define the context of prehistoric sites);
additional surface collection and/or excavation using closer interval shovel test pits and/or larger excavation units (e.g., 1 by 1 meter, 2 by 2 meter squares or trenches of various sizes) to establish a site's horizontal and vertical boundaries within the area of the proposed project limits;
excavation of similar units in areas likely to yield artifacts and features with the potential for dating;
evaluation of the horizontal and vertical distribution of artifacts and features within the site area;
additional analysis to help interpret site function based on the types of artifacts and features present;
assessment of the types of data present on the site (e.g. artifact clusters, datable items, features, stratified layers of artifacts, etc.) and the types of research questions that can be addressed using these types of data; and,
a report that summarizes the results and recommends whether the site meets one or more of the four criteria for eligibility to the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

The Registers of Historic Places are our nation's and state's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. These resources must meet strict criteria for eligibility and contain information that enhances our understanding of the past locally and nationally. Properties listed on the Register include sites, buildings, structures, objects, and entire districts. The properties represent significant pieces in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. The National Register is administered by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of Interior; the State Register is maintained by the OPR&HP.

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