Prehistoric Archeological Resources in the Maryland Coastal Zone: A Management Overview

This report represents an initial and significant step toward the understanding and management of the archeological resources of the Coastal Zone of Maryland. The dynamic environmental and cultural changes which transpired during the 12,000 year span of human occupation have produced a varied and complex archeological record. Prolonged environmental and cultural stresses constantly erode this non-renewable database. Interim and long-term management goals are presented in this report to assist concerned individuals and agencies in interpreting and preserving this archeological record, yet effective formulation and implementation of the many recommendations requires the cooperation of individuals concerned with different aspects of natural and cultural preservation.
The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) and the Division of Archeology of the Maryland Geological Survey (DOA) are the agencies primarily responsible for the development and implementation of the management objectives recommended in this report. During the two-year period between the writing and the publication of this manuscript, the MHT and the DOA implemented several of the management goals presented in Chapter 6. These include five baseline studies, research on the development of a state management plan, assessment of the effect of shoreline erosion on sites, examination of local collections, and establishment of a cultural resource management position at DOA.