EMAP Lizard Terrace Pueblo (LA37727) - Unit 30, 1994

This report sets forth the findings of excavations at Unit 30, Site LA37727, resulting from the 1994 field season, June 18 to August 2. During its occupation, Unit 30 appears to have contained a post-Mimbres settlement. Site LA37727 was chosen for its potential ability to answer questions on Mimbres abandonment patterns. Theoretically, during periods of prolonged environmental and economical stress, large villages migrated to smaller settlements such as this one. Situated on a second terrace on the east slope of the Black Range Mountains, the site's location provided an ample vantage point for defensive purposes, while simultaneously remaining in close proximity to the natural resources of a spring-fed stream and prime game territory. Mostly grass-covered, the terrace's surface is also extremely rocky, providing sturdy building materials for the dwellings that could amply resist the extreme elements of wind and sun. Plant life is dominated by the hardy mesquite, yucca, and cholla.

本报告阐述了1994年野外发掘季（6月18日至8月2日）期间，对LA37727遗址30号探方开展考古发掘所获的全部成果。该探方在被占用时期，应为一处后明布雷斯（post-Mimbres）时期的定居点。选择LA37727遗址，是因其具备解答明布雷斯（Mimbres）文化废弃模式相关问题的潜力。从理论层面来看，在长期的环境与经济压力期内，大型村落会迁徙至此类小型定居点。该遗址坐落于布莱克岭山脉东坡的二级阶地之上，其地势既能提供充足的防御瞭望视野，同时又紧邻一处泉水补给的溪流与优质狩猎场等自然资源。该阶地表面大部分被草甸覆盖，且遍布岩石，可为房址提供坚固的建筑材料，足以抵御极端的风沙与日晒。该区域的原生植被以耐旱的牧豆树、丝兰与团扇仙人掌为主。