ANALYSIS OF POLLEN AND CHARCOAL FROM THE FOLSOM SITE (29CX1), NORTHEAST NEW MEXICO

Three pollen and seventeen charcoal samples from the Folsom Site (29CX1) in northeastern New Mexico were sent for identification and analysis. The pollen samples represent sediments above and below the bison bone bed, as well as associated with a bison cranium. The charcoal samples were recovered from the bone bed, a hearth, arroyo fill, and gravels. Botanic components and detrital charcoal were identified, and potentially radiocarbon datable material was separated. Identification of charcoal from archaeological contexts can assist in a more complete assessment of the areal vegetation adjacent to the site at the time of site occupation. For interpretive purposes, the identification of charcoal from cultural deposits likely represents wood used for fuel. The pollen record is expected to provide a more complete picture of regional vegetation.