Archaeological Survey of the Proposed Johnston Trails Project in the Downstream Corridor, Saylorville Lake, Polk County, Iowa. Phase 1

Abstract : A Phase I archeological survey was conducted for the proposed Johnston Trails of the Des Moines Recreational River and Greenbelt Project. The total project area is approximately 39.5 ha (97.5 acres) in Section 6,5,7,8,17, and 18, T79N-R24W, Saylor Township, Polk County, Iowa. The purpose of the survey was to determine if there were any prehistoric or historic archaeological materials that might be disturbed by construction of the proposed project. Field investigations included a pedestrian survey and subsurface Seymour auger tests. One previously unrecorded site, 13PK595, within the project area. Artifacts from 13PK595 due to circa 1944, and background research indicates the principal structure at the site was standing between the years 1931 and 1971. The investigations indicate that the site 13PK595 is heavily disturbed and is not eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). On the basis of background research and survey results the project right-of-way is recommended for clearance from an archeological perspective.