Archaeological testing next week

We are excited to have contracted with Hartgen Archaeological Assoc. out of Rensselaer for our cultural relevancy site testing. With a staff of 40 individuals, Hartgen has grown to become the largest privately-owned cultural resource management firm in the Northeast and a recognized leader in the field. In their 30+ years of business, they have completed more than 300 surveys in Saratoga County including more than 30 surveys in the Town of Halfmoon alone.

The Phase I process involves researching of the property, which will be done this week, followed by the actual field testing, which is scheduled for next week. Up to fifty shovel pits will be dug in a grid pattern, covering the project area. Each shovelful of dirt will be screened for artifacts that may be of pre-contact (Native American) or historic significance.

Depending on the findings, a final report should be available within two or three weeks of the field work, and we will be notified of whether it is safe to proceed with excavation and construction.

Lets all pray for nice clean dirt.

DEC okays, but cultural tests to be done

It seems that with all exciting projects come both victories and snags along the way. In the realm of building projects, there are many hoops to jump through, from the town planning board, to the Department of Environmental Conservation and even the local historical society.

If you remember from the previous blog entry, there was a chance that we may have had to have test pits dug on our intended site in order to determine if this is a site of cultural significance. Well, we have infact been asked to hire a firm to do the cultural testing. We are currently receiving bids and hopefully can move through this process quickly.

On all other fronts, the project is moving along quickly. The DEC has signed off on our site work, our wetland delineations, storm drainage and sewer lines. These are all victories.

Please continue to pray for the cultural studies to go in our favor.