An Archaeological Survey in the Gila River Basin, New River and Phoenix City Streams, Arizona Project Area

Present archaeological investigations in the district to the north, northwest, and west of Phoenix, Arizona, are a part of the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers planning studies for flood control developments on Cave Creek, Skunk Creek, New River, and Agua Fria River. A specific goal set forth is an inventory of archaeological resources within the proposed project as defined in the scope of work dated 27 June 1973. Once identified, an assessment of the importance of the remains to an interpretation of southern Arizona prehistory also is required. Since little previous research has been accomplished in the district, the initial emphasis has been descriptive in character. It is considered that an attempt to gain a time and cultural relationship perspective is essential to evaluation of the potential impacts of the project. Conservation of archaeological resources has become as important a consideration as the recovery of information from affected sites.

The National Register of Historic Places, with the possibility that certain sites might be developed under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, is a vehicle whereby protection of many archaeological remains is possible. Identification of such resources is now a requirement of the National Environmental Pol icy Act of 1969 and of Executive Order 11593.

Research resulting from the potential impact of the selected projects on archaeological remains can involve only a fraction of the total resources discovered. There is a need for the protect ion of sites to provide for a continuation of investigations based on questions derived from the initial studies. The presence of uniquely important sites and localities, the proposals for recreation areas, and the encroachment of residential developments are other reasons for suggesting protective measures. With archaeological resources for the future, techniques yet to be developed can be employed in research and sites can be preserved for their historical and cultural importance to the American people.