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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
AGENDA
A Regular Meeting to be held in the Council Chambers at the
La Quinta City Hall, 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California
June 18, 1998
3:30 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
A. Pledge of Allegiance
B. Roll Call
II. PUBLIC COMMENT
This is the time set aside for citizens to address the Historical Preservation Commission on
matters relating to historic resources within the City of La Quinta which are not Agenda items.
When addressing the Historical Commission, please state your name and address and when
discussing matters pertaining to prehistoric sites, do not disclose the exact location of the site(s)
for their protection.
III. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA
IV. CONSENT CALENDAR:
A. Approval of the Minutes of April 2, 1998
V. BUSINESS ITEMS:
A. Preliminary Draft Archaeological Report on Test and Limited Data Recovery Programs
for the Village on the Green Project.
B. Phase II Archaeological Test Program for CA-RIV-5972, Cove Area of La Quinta
prepared for Coachella Valley Housing Coalition.
C. Consideration of submittal of a grant proposal to the State Historic Preservation Office
for the Certified Local Government Program, for funding of a Preservation Plan.
VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL:
VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS
A. Commissioner Irwin - presentation.
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
A special meeting held at the La Quinta City Hall Council Chambers
78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta
APRIL 2, 1998
This meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by Vice -Chairman
DeMersman at 3:32 p.m. who led the flag salute and asked for the roll call:
I. CALL TO ORDER:
A. Present: Commissioners Irwin, Puente, Wright and Vice -Chairman
DeMersman.
B. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright/Irwin to excuse Chairman
Millis. Unanimously approved.
C. Staff Present: Principal Planner Stan Sawa, Associate Planner Leslie Mouriquand
and Secretary Carolyn Walker.
II. PUBLIC COMMENT: None
III. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA: Confirmed.
IV. CONSENT CALENDAR:
A. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Irwin/Wright to approve the Minutes
of February 19, 1998, as submitted. Unanimously approved.
V. BUSINESS ITEMS:
A. Report on an Archaeological Monitoring Program for the Retreat at the Quarry.
Parcel Map 28650 City of La Ouinta
1. Associate Planner Leslie Mouriquand commented on the staff report, a copy
of which is on file in the Community Development Department.
2. Staff stated this was the final report from the archaeologist for the grading and
monitoring activities at the Quarry for a 7-1/2 t acre parcel that was recently
graded. No subsurface cultural materials were found, but paleontological
resources were found that included a clustering of freshwater bivalve clams
approximately 3 to 5 feet below surface and near the ancient lake shoreline.
We have marked this location on our City Paleontology Map to keep track of
where the paleo resources are located.
P:\CAROLYN\HPC. 4-2-98.wpd - I - '�•�� .: O O
3. There being no further comments, it was moved and seconded by
Commissioners Irwin/Puente to receive and file the Archaeological
Monitoring Report for the Retreat at the Quarry. Unanimously approved.
B. Consideration of Conditional Use Permit 98-039 and Environmental Assessment 98-
355 for a historic structure's adaptive reuse as a Veterinary Clinic located at 77-895
Avenida Montezuma.
1. Associate Planner Leslie Mouriquand commented on the staff report, on file
in the Community Development Department. She advised the Commission
that this Conditional Use Permit would be going before the Planning
Commission on April 14.
2. She also reminded the Commission that this structure was brought before
them previously under a Certificate of Appropriateness (96-002) for seismic
retrofit and other alterations.
3. The Conditional Use Permit is being brought before the Historical
Preservation Commission to discuss the land use as a small animal veterinary
clinic on the ground floor with the accessory residence on the upper floor.
The rear shed would be used as a parking structure. The applicant is
proposing to keep the existing chain link fence and add an 18-inch wide
planter at the base of it with a vine planting that will grow dense to provide
screening. There will also be other parking lot planting areas with an
assortment of appropriate plants for this region. Also proposed is a new
masonry block wall along the front of the property. The site plan shows the
segment of the concrete block wall with a wrought iron gate for the front
closure. There will be one-way access into the parcel off of Avenida
Montezuma and patrons would park inside in the designated parking spots
indicated on the site plan. They would then exit out the south gate onto the
alleyway. There will be new plantings going into the old existing planting
areas right in front of the building.
4. Ms. Mouriquand further advised the Commission that there would be no
structural changes to the outside of the building. All of the Conditional Use
Permit associated changes would be limited to the interior to facilitate the
clinic downstairs and residence upstairs. Staff does not have any significant
concerns about this nor do any of the agencies that have reviewed and
responded to this. The City has done an environmental assessment (EA 98-
355) that is available in the Community Development Department for review.
The sign request is included with the CUP. The applicant is proposing a
freestanding monument sign to be placed in front, near curb side, that would
give the name of the facility. It would be a wooden sign with painted and
P:\CAROLYN\HPC 4-2-99.%vpd -2-
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vinyl lettering and decoration. This sign, according to our current Sign
Ordinance, would be an exception. However, as this is a historic resource,
and, we are proposing approval of this sign as a mitigation measure in lieu of
what could be an adversely impacting building -mounted sign bolted into the
structure. Staff is therefore supporting this deviation from the Sign Ordinance
as being appropriate for this historic resource.
Commissioner Irwin commented there was a precedence for this type of sign
in the Village, such as the one at the La Quinta Palms Realty. She was unsure
of the size, but stated it was a freestanding sign that had been there for several
years.
6. Associate Planner Mouriquand continued that the second sign being; proposed
(illustrated in Attachment 4 - on file in the Community Development
Department) would be a building -mounted sign, hanging under the eave where
there is an existing similar sign. This sign has been conditioned to have the
wording taken off and display only the street address numbers to be in
compliance with the building street address signage and staff supports that
change.
Ms. Carlson (Applicant) added that the size of the sign, shown in Attachment
4, was still too large. She had indicated the sign would fit between the eaves
and would be similar to the existing sign. The dimensions were the same as
those shown in Attachment 4.
8. Associate Planner Mouriquand read Condition 4 which stated the building -
mounted hanging sign shall be revised to have only the street address
numbers. She asked if the Commission had any changes they would like to
recommend to the Conditions of Approval so they could be forwarded to the
Planning Commission.
9. Commissioner Irwin had a comment about the location of the sidewalk in
Attachment 2. Associate Planner Mouriquand stated the position of the
sidewalk was between the planting areas and where the building began. Ms.
Irwin was concerned about the setbacks on the sidewalks in that area.
Principal Planner Sawa stated he was unsure as to whether or not there was
actually a formal plan for sidewalks in that area. Associate Planner
Mouriquand advised the Commission that the Village Specific Plan was being
revised, and it may address this issue. Discussion followed as to where the
sidewalk was and where it might be placed in the future. Staff stated they
would get a copy of the Village Plan to the Commission. Principal Planner
Sawa stated the Village Plan was scheduled to go to the Planning Commission
on April 14th. Associate Planner Mouriquand asked the Commission to
PACAROLYN\HPC 4-2-98.wpd -3-
4.2_V OOc.
Provide comments, on the Plan, to Associate Planner Wallace Nesbit.
10. Associate Planner Mouriquand further stated there were no significant issues
and staff is recommending approval of the Conditional Use Permit subject to
conditions and if the Commission had any questions she would be happy to
answer them. Ms. Mouriquand also mentioned that the applicant and building
owner were present at the meeting.
11. Commissioner Wright commented on the looks and quality of the project.
12. Commissioner Irwin stated she was pleased to see the building being used as
a residence because historically that was how the building was designed and
she was happy to see it going back to its original use.
13. Counnissioner Puente commented positively on the article in the Desert Sun.
14. Commissioner Wright asked if the applicant had an opening date. Ms. Fischer
(building owner) answered they were hoping to have the buildling repairs
completed in June.
15. Commissioner DeMersman thanked the owner and applicant for being
particularly sensitive to the historic character of the buildling. The
Commissioners unanimously agreed.
16. Commissioner Wright mentioned this was a benchmark for the Village.
17. Commissioner Irwin wanted to make public that the workmen were going out
of their way to reconstruct the building exactly as it was. When the framers
were rebuilding the back shed they went to the Historical Society to ask for
pictures of the overhang because they wanted to be sure the roof overhang on
the shed was exactly as it had been. That was an example of the extent
they're going to recreate the original building.
18. Commissioner Irwin asked if the type of signage used on the veterinary clinic
and the realty (free-standing) could be adopted in the Village Plan as the
"village sign".
19. Associate Planner Mouriquand stated she had recommended a paragraph be
added to the Village Specific Plan to allow an exemption process for signage
in the Village area for signs that would be historically, and architecturally
appropriate to historic resources. She stated this would be coming before the
Historic Preservation Commission for review and recommendation.
20. There being no further comments, it was moved and seconded by
Commissioners Wright/Puente to approve Minute Motion 98-003 accepting
P:\CAROL,YN\HPC 4-2-9%.wpd -4-
11,01. ri
the report. Unanimously approved.
C. Cultural Resources Report Tentative Tract Man 26855 and 26718
Associate Planner Leslie Mouriquand commented on the staff report, on file
in the Community Development Department. She explained this report was
prepared to meet a condition that was originally placed on the Tract back in
1993, when both of the Tentative Tract Maps were originally approved by
City Council. Back in that time period archaeological reports were often
conditioned for, as opposed to today's process. The current City codes
require these reports to be done prior to the approval process so there can be
a more thorough environmental analysis on each project.
2. The tentative tracts are adjacent to each other and they are interdependent in
their design. Throughout the processing both tracts have gone together and
the City has allowed the owners to have the archaeological study done as if
it were just one project area as opposed to two; both for time and cost
efficiency.
There were no prehistoric resources found on this survey and nothing found
of significance for the historic period. The report complies with the condition
requirement accepted by the Commission.
4. Vice Chairman DeMersman called for comments. Since there were none, it
was moved and seconded by Commissioners Irwin/Wright to approve Minute
Motion 98-004 to accept the report. Unanimously approved.
D. Report of an Archaeological Monitoring Program for the La Ouinta Setif Storage
Facility.
Associate Planner Leslie Mouriquand commented on the staff report, on file
in the Community Development Department. She stated the initial
archaeological report was brought before the Commission last year and as a
condition of approval archaeological monitoring was required. ]During the
monitoring of this project a single ceramic sherd was recovered; idlentified as
Tizon brownware. It was interesting, though not highly significant, that the
remains of burned food were detected on the inside on the sherd. This is
again, meeting a condition of approval for that project and it's brought before
the Commission as a concluding component of that program for receive and
file.
Commissioner Irwin asked how it was possible that there was nothing on the
site since it's so close to a notable site. Associate Planner Mouriquand
answered the site was heavily disturbed by the local water company when
channel improvements were made some years ago. The parcel is an elongated
P:\C XROLYN\HPC 4-2-98.wpd -5- tiff... O 0
it
shape of about five acres. This project is on the back (northerly) portion of
the acreage. The front remainder is undisturbed and Phase I surveys have
been completed and in it there are substantial archaeological findings. This
parcel may have had archaeological deposits, but when the water company did
their improvements, they were disturbed. When this other project comes
before the Commission it may be a very highly significant site. There were
observed on the surface by things blowing out of the dunes that may have
been an indication of subsurface material.
3. Conunissioner Irwin asked Staff to shown them the actual site. Was it closer
to the Whitewater Channel or Highway I I I? Associate Planner Mouriquand
answered that it was more on the southerly portion of this parcel. This
project yielded a scattering of sherds.
Commissioner Irwin asked if they found anything in the area where the trailer
had been. Associate Planner Mouriquand replied this was probably where the
surface material was found. She thought the archaeologists were very
surprised not to have found more than one sherd, but thought the front parcel
was going to more than make up for what this site did not have.
4. There being no further comments, it was moved and seconded by
Commissioners Wright/Irwin to receive and file the report. Unanimously
approved.
VL CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL
A. Associate Planner Leslie Mouriquand reviewed the correspondence. Of particular
interest was the literature regarding a CLG Training opportunity by held by the
Society for California Archaeology which will start April 8th in San Diego. On April
9th two meetings that deal particularly with things here in the Coachella Valley would
be held . She also mentioned that if the Commissioners wanted to attend the meeting,
there was a $20 per day registration fee the City would reimburse them for
registration, mileage, and food. She also advised the Commission there was
additional information on the Internet, and the website address was available for those
interested. This meeting qualities for annual training credit.
B. Staff went over a letter from SHPO about the adopted regulations for the California
Register of Historic Resources and the language changes.
C. The Coachella Valley Archeological Society Symposium on May 16th will be at the
Annenberg Theater, in the basement of the Palm Springs Desert Museum. A flyer
was included in the Commissioner's packet. Associate Planner Mouriquand
mentioned that most of the speakers who were invited have agreed to attend. The
PICAROLYMM'C 4-2-98.wpd -6-
most important aspect of the Symposium is that it is eligible for CLG training credits.
D. Staff informed the Commission there was recent news on the Catellus project, located
at the northwest corner of Avenue 48 and Jefferson Street. Jim Brock from
Archaeological Advisory Group was hired to do the Phase II archaeology and at a
depth of five feet, in the trenching site, cranium pieces were found in association with
artifacts. The bone material has not been positively identified as human, but it is not
burned and there are substantial pieces that make up sizeable piece of cranium. The
artifact material is very dense. There are a lot of artifacts out there and they're very
deep. There have been discussions with the developer as to whether they're going to
be re -designing a portion of the project or what should be proposed as mitigation.
That report, once complete, will be brought to the Commission.
Commissioner Irwin asked if this was part of the Burning Dune Site? Associate
Planner Mouriquand replied that it was not, this site was on the other end of the block
at Jefferson Street and Avenue 48 . The Burning Dune Site was located at Adams
Street and Avenue 48. This site is part of what is currently being dubbed as the "48th
Corridor".
Commissioner Irwin asked if "The Islands" is where the midden site had been found.
Associate Planner Mouriquand replied it was.
VIL COMMISSIONER ITEMS:
A. Commissioner Irwin informed the Commission that Katherine Saubel spoke on
Sunday and was very supportive of SHPO.
B. Associate Planner Mouriquand commented to the Commission that she had been in
Seattle participating in a symposia put together by the New Mexico SHPO and the
symposia was titled "Successes of Preservation Law at the Local Level". The paper
she gave discussed how La Quinta was handling its archaeology process and all its
successes. She was very proud to represent La Quinta and the State of California.
The collection of papers from the symposium will be published.
C. Commissioner Irwin stated she was sad she had received a copy of Ned Millis'
resignation. She regretted his leaving as she enjoyed working with him as he had
done a very good job.
Vice Chairman DeMersman also commented he would miss him. He has been a great
Chairman.
His concern was echoed by Commissioner Wright who included he had been a great
Chairman from the very beginning.
Associate Planner Mouriquand advised the Commission that the City Clerk would be
handling recruitment and processing of appointments for vacancies on commissions.
The Historic Preservation Commission will have two other positions up for
reappointment on June 30th. The City Clerk's intention is to process all three at the
P:ACAROLYN\HYC 4-2-98.wpd -7-
same time. The City Clerk will be contacting the two Commissioners whose terms
are coming up regarding re -applying.
D. Vice Chairman DeMersman asked if all the Commissioners had received a copy of the
State Historic Preservation Conference invitation. He advised the Commissioners that
it would be in Berkeley this year and encouraged them to attend. He stated it was
a great conference and a great place to network with other communities across the
State. This is the conference that will be in Palm Springs next year.
Commissioner Irwin asked for the Conference date. Vice Chairman DeMersman
replied May 7, 1998,
E. Commissioner Irwin advised the Commission she would be unable to attend the May
meeting.
Commissioner Wright expressed his concern about having a quorum for the meeting.
Associate Planner Mouriquand stated there would be a quorum as Commissioner
Millis' resignation would be effective April 7th. She also told the Commission this
was the only meeting that would be held in April and the next meeting would not be
until May 21st. If there were items the Commission thought should be discussed prior
to that meeting they should contact staff.
F. Staff read a letter from the Keith Companies regarding the Eagle Hardware reburial.
On March 26th they had a traditional Cahuilla Reburial Ceremony with Kathy Saubel
as the local Native American representative. Dr. Paul Chace was present as well as
a representative of the Riverside County Coroner's Office. It was the first such
reburial for La Quinta. We may anticipate more such reburials in the future if we have
cremains on sites.
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Irwin/Puente to
adjourn this special meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission to a regular meeting of the
Historic Preservation Commission on May 21, 1998. This meeting of the Historic Preservation
Commission was adjourned at 4:07 p.m. Unanimously approved.
P:ICAROLYMHPC 4-2-98."d -8-
BI #A
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE: JUNE 18, 1998
ITEM: PRELIMINARY DRAFT ARCHAEOLOGICAL REPORT ON TEST
AND LIMITED DATA RECOVERY PROGRAMS FOR THE
VILLAGE ON THE GREEN PROJECT, LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA.
PREPARED FOR: CATELLUS RESIDENTIAL GROUP
PREPARED BY: JAMES BROCK, ARCHAEOLOGICAL ADVISORY GROUP
BACKGROUND:
The initial findings from the archaeological testing and limited data recovery for the Village on the
Green project have been submitted for review and acceptance. The project site is located at the
northwest corner of the intersection of Jefferson Street and 48' Avenue, on a 35-acre parcel. An
affordable housing project is proposed for the parcel. The testing consisted of excavation of two
previously -recorded prehistoric sites (CA-RIV-6059 and CA-RIV-6060), and a third prehistoric site
(LAQ5) discovered during this investigation.
Previously, a Phase I survey was conducted by Archaeological Resource Management Corporation,
in 1997, in which two prehistoric and two potentially historic sites were identified. In addition, two
earlier surveys had been conducted along the western and southern boundaries of the Catellus project
site.
This investigation consisted of testing and data recovery. Testing consisted of the excavation of 1 x
I meter units, backhoe trenching, and surface collection. During the testing, a major subsurface
habitation area was located at Locus B of CA-RIV-6059. A variety of artifactual material was
recovered and radiocarbon dating was performed. Specialized analyses of the recovered materials is
in progress. It has been determined that Locus B of this site is significant in that it is the best known
and best preserved example of its type and that the variety of materials recovered should be able to
provide clues to several research questions. Hearths and house circles appear to be present in the site.
The other sites have been determined not to be significant because of their lack of substantial and
important data.
The report concludes with recommendations for monitoring of the rough grading and major
trenching, and that Locus B be preserved as open space due to its research potential.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Minute Motion to accept the report as submitted to the City.
Attachment:
1. Confidential Archaeological Report (HPC only)
Prepared by:
Associate Planner
C:AMydata\Catellus.wpd
Submitted by:
"CMUJSTIN�EDI
Planning Manager
Preliminary Draft Archaeological
Report on Test and Limited Data
Recovery Programs for the
Village on the Green Project,
D ��1 .
NN
La Quinta, California
Prepared for:
Catellus Residential (Troup
5 Park Plaza, Suite 400
Irvine, CA 92714
Submitted to:
City of La Quinta
78495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
Prepared by:
James Brock
and
Brenda D. Smith
May 1998
USCS Topographic Quadrangle: La Quinta, California
Acreage: 35.9
Key Words: La Quinta; Tract 29601; Sites CA -RI V-6059, CA -RI V-6060, LAQ3-FL LAQ4-1-, and LAQ5
ARCHAEOLOGICAL ADVISORY GROUP
P.O. BOX 491, PIONEERTOWN, CA 92268-0491
Tel: (760) 228-1142 a Fax: (760) 3694002
E-mail: archadvgrp4,aol.com
_. 012
INTRODUCTION
This preliminary report, an incomplete version of the forthcoming draft report, presents the
initial findings from archaeological testing and limited data recovery for the Village on the
Green project in the City of La Quinta, California. The project was conducted by
Archaeological Advisory Group for Catellus Residential Group. This report has been
prepared to provide a preliminary assessment of the significance of the identified cultural
resources and to provide background information for the specialists who are currently
analyzing materials from the investigations.
The study area is a 35-acre property located at the northwest corner of the intersection of
Jefferson Street and Avenue 48 in La Quinta. Affordable housing is proposed ]or the
property. The archaeological research described here consisted of the test excavation of
two previously -identified prehistoric sites, CA-RIV-6059 (LAQ1) and CA-RIV-6060
(LAQ2), along with the test excavation of a third prehistoric site discovered during this
project (LAQ5). Additionally, limited data recovered was conducted at Locus B of site
CA-RIV-6059 when the test program located a major, well-preserved buried deposit in that
location.
Additional research was also conducted on two putative historical refuse deposits
identified during the Phase I survey (LAQ3-H and LAQ4-H).
This study was undertaken in accordance with the cultural resource requirements of the
City of La Quinta. These are intended to fulfill those aspects of the California
Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (as amended) which pertain to the management of
cultural resources that may be impacted by development projects sponsored by state or
local government agencies, or by private developments requiring a discretionary permit or
license.
This report was prepared in accordance with the recommended contents and format
described in the State's Preservation Planning Bulletin Number 4(a) (California
Department of Parks and Recreation 1989).
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Figure 1. Location of the study area plotted on a portion of the USGS 7.5' La Quinta,
California topographic quadrangle (1959, photorevised 1980).
2 •. � 014
The Principal Investigator for this study was James Brock. The field crew consisted of Mr.
Brock, Steven K. Dies, William A. Sawyer, James H. Toenjes, and Brenda D. Smith.
Laboratory work was conducted by Brenda D. Smith.
Field notes and other material pertaining to this study are on file with Archaeological
Advisory Group (AAG Job Numbers 980203 and 980304). Curation of the
artifacts/ecofacts collected during this study will be the responsibility of the City of La
Quinta.
SETTING
NATURAL SETTING
The Village on the Green project (Tentative Map No. 28601) is located in the City of La
Quinta, in the Coachella Valley area of Riverside County, California. It is located at the
northwest corner of the intersection of Jefferson Street and Avenue 48.
The study area falls within the southwestern quarter of Section 29 of Township 'i South,
Range 7 East, SBBM. This property is located on the USGS 7.5' La Quinta, California
topographic quadrangle.
The topography of the study area comprised large aeolian sand dunes with interspersed
alkali salt flats. Soil typically comprises loose gray -tan silty sand.
The elevations of the property range from approximately 42 to 70 feet msl. The nearest
natural source of water is the Whitewater River drainage which, now channelized, flows
west to east approximately one-half mile north of the project area. The eastern end of the
study area would have been on the northwestern shoreline of the ancient Lake Cahuilla
(now the Salton Sea) during its last high stand. This final stand is estimated to have been
about 42 feet msl (12.8 meters). The last stand is believed to have occurred during the
1600s.
Native vegetation on the study area consisted of a Creosote Scrub community, containing
creosotes (Larrea tridentata), mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa), burrobush (Ambrosia
dumosa) and other stickery scrubs (including Dicoria canescens and Schismus barbatus).
Animal species typically encountered in the area include cottontail, jackrabbit, pack rat,
pocket mouse, covote, scorpion, Western Shovel -nosed Snake, Sidewinder, Desert Iguana,
Side -blotched Lizard, Loggerhead Shrike, Mourning Dove, Say's Phobe, Gambel's Quail,
Common Raven, Anna's Hummingbird, Red-tailed Hawk, Lesser Nighthawk, and
American Kestrel.
The propem• under consideration fall within the Lower Sonoran Life Zone, as does
approximately 600 0 of Cahuilla territory (Bean and Saubel 1972:12). This zone extends
from the desert floor to the pinyon -juniper belt (about 3,500 feet). The Coachella. Valley,
3
015
due to it placement on the eastern side of the Peninsular ranges, is blocked from receiving
moisture moving eastward from the Pacific. This blockade results in low rainfall of
generally less than 5 inches of precipitation annually. Not only does this region have little
rainfall, but it is also one of the hottest deserts on the continent, having a mean maximum
temperature in July that easily exceeds 100' (Bailey 1966:42).
CULTURAL SETTING
While the regional ethnography of the study area is fairly well accounted for, its precontact
history is poorly understood. Archaeologists have struggled for years to put together
comprehensive chronologies for what is referred to as the Prehistoric Period (time
preceding contact with Europeans) of Native American history. The sequence of
prehistoric habitation presented here is based primarily on the concordance of sequences
presented by Warren (1984) and Warren and Crabtree (1986). Warren's timeframe
divisions were based on technological changes in lithic use (i.e. millingstones and
projectile points). His model was originally devised for the Mojave desert region, but
because of basic technological similarities in southern California Indian cultures it is also
applicable to the Colorado desert peoples.
Lake Mojave Period
This period probably represents the earliest phase of human occupation in southern
California. It began by at least 10,000 BC and lasted until around 5000 BC. This period is
characterized by hunting of larger games animals using spears and articulated spear -
throwing devices termed "atlatls." Spear points of this period initially were quits: large,
lanceolate in shape, and were oftentimes fluted, having a longitudinal groove along the
central portion of the body for attachment to a spear. Other projectile points such as Lake
Mojave, Parman, and Silver Lake points, were somewhat smaller (though still large in
comparison to later arrow points) and foliate in shape. Crescents, specialized scrapers,
leaf -shaped knives, drills, and some chopperOmmmerstones are other tools which have
been identified with this period. Millingstones typically are not present. The artifact
assemblage of this period is indicative of a generalized hunting and gathering subsistence
economy.
Archaeological sites from early on in this period were generally associated with
Pleistocene lake shorelines. As the Altithermal (a warmer and drier climatic period that
lasted from 6000 B.C. to 900B.C.) set in, sites began to concentrate around desert oases,
away from receding lakes that were becoming too brackish for consumption. This
movement likely spawned the technological change that would lead to the Pinto Basin
complex.
Pinto Period
The Pinto Period dates from around 5000 to 2000 BC, corresponding roughly to the
Millingstone Horizon in the coastal areas of California. Although desert and coastal
peoples shared cultural traits during this period, desert peoples probably did not have the
4
same dependence on millingstones as coastal peoples. Seed grinding does not appear to be
an important economic activity yet to the peoples of this period, but the presence of flat
slab and occasionally shallow -basin metates along with mans, indicates ;growing
importance that plant seed resources were beginning to have. Presumably these peoples
were still maintaining a large and small game hunting and vegetal gathering economy
during this period. Pinto points, as defined by Campbell and Campbell (1935), are the
distinctive lithics of this period. These are usually found in association with heavy -keeled
scrapers, and millingstones.
Pinto Basin complex sites are generally found in association with ephemeral lakes, stream
channels, and springs, which to some suggests a break in the Altithermal warming.
Presumably there was a reoccupation of lakeshore areas around 4500 BC and then a retreat
back to desert oases by 3500 BC. This time period is known as the Little Pluvial.
Gypsum Period
The Gypsum Period is believed to date from around 2000 BC to about AD 500. Again,
primary artifacts indicative of this period are projectile points of various types, including
Gypsum Cave, Humbolt series, and Elko series points. The early Gypsum period is
characterized by larger projectile points when use of the dart and atlatl were still common.
Later, with the introduction of the bow and arrow, smaller points become prominent.
Manos and metates become more common, and the mortar and pestle come into use --
indicating a developing reliance upon fleshier seed foods such as mesquite pods and
acorns. Presence of Haliotis and Olivella shell beads in sites of this period provide the
earliest evidence for contact between desert and coastal peoples.
Saratoga Springs Period
The Saratoga Springs period lasts from about AD 500 to 1200. During this period the
southem desert region, in which the Coachella Valley lies, deviates from the rest of the
desert region due to heavy cultural influence by the Hakataya, a lower Colorado River
group. The Hakataya influence brings drastic technological change to the peoples of this
region. Buffware and Brownware pottery, made using the paddle and anvil technique, are
introduced and reliance on the bow and arrow increases which leads to a new projectile
point type called Cottonwood Triangular. Millingstones, including manos, metates,
pestles, and mortars are present in this time period.
Late Pre -Contact Period
The Late Pre -Contact Period spans from A.D. 1200 to contact with Europeans. It is
characterized mostly by continuing regional development, which causes groups to
differentiate technologically, ethnographically, and linguistically. In the Coachella, Valley
region, Hakataya influence continues, with Colorado Buffware and Tizon Brownware still
present. Desert Side -notched points have become the dominant point type.
5
,t •� 017
Proto-Historic Period
Desert Cahuilla have inhabited the Coachella Valley region for at least the last 1000 years.
They are a Takic speaking people who are more closely culturally tied with coastal and
Colorado River groups than with most other Mojave desert peoples. First known contact
with the Cahuilla by a European was during the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition in 1774-
1776. They were largely ignored by the Spanish until the establishment of the Asistencias
San Ant6nio de Pala (1816), Santa Ysabel (1818), and San Bernardino (1830). Through
these mission outposts the Spanish managed to indirectly influence Cahuilla religious
beliefs and culture. During the Mexican occupation of California, the Cahuilla were
largely left alone by intruders. It was not until 1853 when the Southern Pacific Railroad
began surveying the Coachella Valley for a possible railroad route that the Cahuilla were
again bothered. By this point the lands inhabited by the Cahuilla had become desired by
Americans. In response to this, President Ulysses S. Grant began allotting Cahuilla lands
in 1875 to give to American settlers. It was during this period when the removal of the
Cahuilla to government reservations began. Ten reservations were created that affected the
Cahuilla; of these four are in the Coachella Valley.
Ethnography
Many studies of Cahuilla culture have been conducted over the years. Among the most
informative accounts are Bean (1972, 1978), Strong (1929), Hooper (1920), and Kroeber
(1908). Four excellent ethnobiological studies also exist (Ebeling 1986, Barrows 1900,
Kroeber 1925, and Bean and Saubel 1972), as well as archaeological accounts of
prehistoric Cahuilla adaptations to the desiccation of ancient Lake Cahuilla (e.g. Wilke
1978).
The Cahuilla are divided by anthropologists into three subgroups, the Desert Cahuilla of the
Coachella Valley, the Pass Cahuilla of the San Gorgonio pass area, and the Mountain
Cahuilla of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains. These divisions were based on
geographic separation and dialect differences, but they were not necessarily recognized by the
Cahuilla themselves. Actually, the Cahuilla did not consider themselves to be of one tribe as
western anthropologists have designated them to be. Bean (1972:85) reported that "the
maximal level of social identification among the Cahuilla was the ?iW?1p?ahrm, a
linguistically and culturally defined group ... [which] refers to persons speaking the Cahuilla
language and recognizing a commonly shared cultural heritage ... [but) a more precise
membership criterion existed at the next level of group identity." A person's inclusion in his
or her moiety and lineage (or clan) was primary to any tribal affiliation.
The two moieties, or main divisions, of the Cahuilla were the Iston (coyote) and the Tuktum
(wild cat). Moieties were patrilineal and exogamous, meaning that lineage was followed
through the father and that members of one moiety had to marry into the other. Clans were
numerous and were named after or associated with the villages they comprised. Individual
clans claimed ownership over their village and the territories in which they hunted, gathered,
and camped. Territories could be several square miles in extent and were only for the use of a
specific lineage. Mesquite grove boundaries, for instance, were drawn to include specific
Z
trees. Everyone knew who those trees belong to so that if someone from another lineage was
found trespassing, a fight could ensue. But in times of need, areas were shared with other
clans. This allowance occurred regularly with mesquite because these groves do not produce
bountiful crops each year. In the case of crop failure, a neighboring clan would invite the
misfortunate person into their territory to gather.
Historical Background
Some homesteaders were present in La Quinta as early as late last century, however the
real origins of modern La Quinta rest with the opening of the La Quinta Hotel in 1926
(Cooper 1976:40). This was a hotel and winter resort with a golf course. It was developed
on part of 1400 acres owned by the Desert Development Company (Gunther 1984:286).
Records at the BLM office in Riverside indicate that the study area was not part of
government homestead lands but rather part of a 5291.44-acre railroad grant patent, which
included all of Section 29, that dated to June 30, 1905 (BLM Serial File No. 89). The
railroad sold off portion of Section 29 to small-scale farmers early in this century, although
no farming appears to have taken place on the present study area.
Records, Literature, and Archaeological Background Information
An archaeological records search was conducted during the Phase I survey for this study
(see Demcak 1997). This was conducted through the Eastern Information Center of the
California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) at UC Riverside
Prior to Demcak's investigation, two surveys were conducted on the western and southern
boundaries of the current project area. The first was a reconnaissance undertaken for the
Avenue 48 Extension Project that went along the southern border of the present study area
(Brock 1997a). This identified one isolated buffware shed that fell onto the project area
(Isolate Number 33-7897). The other survey was for a 3.2 soil stockpile area located at the
southwestern end of the study area (Brock 1997b). This survey was negative.
Demcak's study revealed two prehistoric sites (LAQ1 and LAQ2) and two putative
historical refuse scatters (LAQ3-H and LAQ4-I). Attachment A shows the locations of
these sites. Three isolated finds were also noted (I-1-H, I-2-P, and I-3-P).
The study area is in a vicinity of high archaeological sensitivity. Seventeen previously
recorded sites are present within a one-half mile radius of the study area. Of these, I 1 are
precontact habitation sites of various sizes, typically containing pottery, chipped and
ground stone, bone, charcoal, and thermally -affected rock. Of the six sites, one is a
precontact pottery scatter, one is a precontact pottery scatter associated with a historic
dump, two represent historic homesteads, one is a dirt road, and one is a historic refuse
deposit.
Based on the presence of ceramics, most of the prehistoric sites within the one -mile: radius
appear to be relatively recent in date (post AD 500).
019
An additional 25 sites are present in the region from one-half to one mile away from the
study area.
Approximately 60 percent of the land within a one-half mile radius of the study area had
been previous surveyed for cultural resources (prior to the Demcak survey).
RESEARCH DESIGN
INTRODUCTION
A research design is a guide document to organize research and interpret findings. It
provides a structure from which the evaluation of significance can be made. A research
design is usually regional in scope and based on some type of statistically -based
sampling program (see Binford 1964). A research design generally has the following
elements: (1) a theoretical orientation, (2) research areas, or domains, under which come
(3) specific research hypotheses or questions which have (4) test implications for
interpretation of field data.
THEORETICAL ORIENTATION
The theoretical orientation which structures this research design is cultural materialism.
Cultural materialism assumes that decision making by people and groups is based upon
economic considerations. It assumes that behavior, at least in the long term, is rational and
therefore adaptive. It recognizes that people and groups have not and do not always
behave in a rational manner but from the relatively gross temporal perspective of
archaeology, such behavior is not statistically significant.
RESEARCH DOMAINS
The research domains, or topics, which will be considered are chronology, subsistence
practices, settlement systems, and exchange systems. Discussions of these domains are
provided below.
Chronology
Chronology is the backbone of archaeology. Establishing the sequence of cultural
change through time is a fundamental concern in archaeology. Unless a site can be
placed in a temporal context, its ability to address the evolution of a cultural system is
seriously limited. Fortunately, datable material (e.g. charcoal) is relatively abundant on
sites in the La Quinta area. Abundant Late Period sites are present in the La Quinta
area. A major concern in La Quinta archaeology is establishing changes in Late Period
settlement and subsistence patterns in relation to the changes in the water level of
H
$.,; 020
ancient Lake Cahuilla. Also, earlier sites are rare. Any data helping to establish an
Archaic Period chronology for the area is extremely valuable.
■ Does the site contain sufficient material for absolute or relative dating?
Test implications: presence of carbon in sufficient quantity to provide absolute dates,
presence of temporally -sensitive artifact types.
■ Is there any evidence for an Archaic Period use of the site?
Test implications: absolute (e.g. carbon) date of pre -AD 900 or presence of artifacts
(e.g. projectile points, beads) dated to pre -AD 900.
■ Can the site be tied in to one or more of the postulated stands of ancient Lake Cahuilla
(see e.g. Waters 1983)?
Test implication: absolute date(s) that corresponds to a postulated stand of Lake
Cahuilla.
■ Is there any evidence for a post -Lake Cahuilla use of the site?
Test implication: absolute or relative date of post -AD 1650, presence of historical
artifacts.
Subsistence Practices
The presence of faunal remains, floral remains, and artifacts associated with food
extraction and processing can provide valuable information on the subsistence practices of
precontact Native Americans. Midden deposits can provide a good range of evidence for
exploitation of faunal resources. Also, carbonized seeds from sites could provide
evidence of early agricultural activities, which are suspected to have occurred in the
region but, as yet, lack archaeological evidence. Reconstruction of ceramic vessel forms
and the types of ground stone implements present could provide information on the
types of resources being exploited by the site's inhabitants.
• Is there evidence of a change in subsistence strategies at the site, particularly ones
relating to the desiccation of Lake Cahuilla?
Test implication: change in frequencies of particular faunal or floral species in
stratigraphically discrete contexts dating to the last stand and later periods.
• Is there evidence of agriculture? If so, does it relate to changing subsistence practices
forced by the desiccation of Lake Cahuilla?
■ Is there evidence of what, if any, subsistence activity(ies) was being engaged in al. the
site?
9
s_ ., 021
Settlement Systems
Information on settlement patterns should be present in the information from the site.
Data may present evidence of changing settlement patterns with the different lacustral
episodes of Lake Cahuilla and those caused by the final desiccation of the lake.
■ Does the site indicate settlement associated with the exploitation of Lake Cahuilla
resources?
■ Can settlement location be related to a particular stand of ancient Lake Cahuilla?
■ Is there evidence of a change in settlement patterns pertaining to the desiccation of
Lake Cahuilla?
■ Was shoreline occupation at Lake Cahuilla primarily seasonal or year round (Wilke
1978:14)?
Exchange Systems
Patterns of exchange should be evidenced in artifactual material from the site. Such things
as lithic types, ceramics, and beads present could indicate trade relations with other
groups (e.g. Colorado River or coastal California). The following research questions have
been developed to address this domain:
■ Are exotic resources present at the site? Do these represent direct procurement
or exchange mechanisms?
■ Is there evolution through time in the types or quantities of non -local resources
present?
• Is the local catchment area sufficiently diverse in natural resources to
discourage trade relations?
• Is there evidence of the exchange of technologies or ideas, rather than material
objects?
METHODS
FIELDWORK TECHNIQUES
Standard archaeological techniques were utilized during the project. Excavation units were
one -by -one, one -by -two, or two -by -two meters. Soil was excavated in arbitrary 10 cm
levels and screened using I/e-inch mesh shaker screens. All units were drawn in profile,
photographed, and had soil samples taken from each discernible stratigraphic level.
10
r.., 0242
In areas of light artifact density surface collection was done by transit and 50 meter hand
tape or stadia rod. At Locus A of CA-RIV-6059 surface collection was conducted by grid
due to the high density of artifacts.
Due to the potential for buried prehistoric deposits to be present on the study area, backhoe
trenching was conducted systematically across the property in a 50 meter grid (see
Attachment C). This excluded the fill at the southwestern corner and the disturbed area
adjacent to the Evacuation Channel. The backhoe grid was used in closer intervals when
Locus B at CA-RIV-6059 was being defined. All backhoe dirt was screened using 1,/4 inch
mesh screening on a stationary stand. This proved to be a successful technique.
The sampling strategy was systematic when possible and otherwise intuitive.
In accordance with State Historic Preservation Office guidelines, all cultural materials,
structures, features, and objects over 45 years in age were considered for potential cultural
resource value.
LABORATORY TECHNIQUES
General
Laboratory work consisted of the cleaning, sorting, cataloging, and analysis of the
recovered specimens. A computer database program was utilized for the artifact/ecofact
catalog. Specimens from the site are numbered with the California state trinomial and a
catalog number.
Catalog numbers are five digits. The first two numbers denote the material/analysis
category: CA (carbon), CE (ceramics), CL (clay), CS (chipped stone), FA (faunal), GL
(glass), MI (miscellaneous), and PR (plastic/rubber).
FINDINGS
FIELDWORK DETAILS AND GENERAL FINDINGS
Fieldwork for this project comprised two phases, Phase II (Test Program) and Limited
Phase III (Data Recovery and Boundary Definition). Phase I had already been conducted
by Archaeological Resource Management Corporation in 1997 (Demcak 1997).
Phase H
Phase II consisted of test excavation and surface collection at the two prehistoric sites
recorded during the Phase I survey, CA-RIV-6059 and CA-RIV-6060. Additionally, work
was conducted at another prehistoric site, LAQ5, that was newly discovered by AAG.
Fieldwork took place on the following days in 199& 2/12, 2/13, 2/16, 2/17, 2/18, 2/19,
11
023
2/20, 2/23, and 2/24. The following personnel assisted with the Phase II work: James
Brock, Brenda D. Smith, William A. Sawyer, Steven K. Dies, and James H. Toenjes.
All units dug during Phase II were one -by -one meter in size. Five units were dug at CA-
RIV-6059 (Units 1-5), five units were dug at CA-RIV-6060 (Units 1-5), and one unit was
dug at LAQ5 (Unit 1). Additionally, three features were investigated at CA-13.I11-6059
(Features 1-3) and one unit was examined at CA-RIV-6060 (Feature 2-Feature 1 had
been previously excavated). All four features were surface rock scatters. Attachment B
shows the locations of units and features.
Also during Phase II systematic backhoe trenching was conducted to look for buried
deposits. Backhoe trenches were generally dug on a 50 meter interval grid (see
Attachment Q. Backhoe trenches were dug directly to the west of grid points and were
generally 60 centimeters wide, 2 meters long, and 1 to 2 meters in depth. The din was
screened through Y. inch mesh. A total of 27 backhoe trenches were dug during Phase H.
The backhoe trenching proved highly successful. A major buried habitation area was
located at Locus B of CA-RIV-6059. This discovery facilitated another phase of research
to better define the extent of the deposit and to acquire a sample of the material that is
present. This was termed "Limited Phase III".
Limited Phase III
This phase of research entailed the excavation of additional hand units and backhoe
trenches in order to better evaluated the nature and extent of the buried deposit present at
Locus B of CA-RIV-6059. Work took place on the following days in 1998: 3/26, 3/27,
3/28, 3/29, and 3/30. The crew consisted of James Brock, William A. Sawyer, and Steven
K. Dies.
The units varied in size from one -by -one, one -by -two, to two -by -two meters in size They
are numbered 6 to 11 (see Attachment B). The backhoe trenches were dug on the same
grid employed during the test phase but were excavated at closer intervals to determine the
extent of the deposit (see Attachment Q. Eleven additional backhoe trenches were
excavated.
Unit Descriptions
Detailed unit information will follow in the subsequent report. The following tables are
provided to assist the artifact/ecofact analysis specialists.
12
V. 024
Unit Locus Size (m) Depth (cm)
Number
1
A
lxl
40
2
A
lx1
30
3
B
I x 1
30
4
A
I x 1
40
5
A
I x 1
30
6
B
2x2
100
7
B
l x 2
110
8
B
lx2
50
9
B
I x 2
120
10
B
I x 1
50
11
B
I x 1
70
Table 1. General information about CA-RIV-6059 units. Note: depth does not
include portholes dug in unit bottoms. Units 7-11 are depths below clearance
level not ground surface.
Unit Number
Unit Size (m)
Depth (cm)
I
Ixl
50
2
lx1
50
3
1 x 1
80
4
lxl
50
5
Ixl
50
Table 2. General information about CA-RIV-6060 units. Note: depth does not
include portholes dug in unit bottoms. Depths are below ground surface.
The unit excavated at LAQS was one -by -one and excavated to a depth of 30 centimeters
and then postholed.
ANALYSIS OF RECOVERED MATERIAL
This is a preliminary report. Analysis of recovered material is underway at present. Only
brief notes are presented at this time.
CA-RIV-6059
Radiocarbon Dating
Three radiocarbon age determinations have been provided by Beta Analytic. These are all
from Locus B.
13
°• 025
Sample Number
Unit
Depth
Date BP
(cros)
(present=1950)
Beta-116954
7
10-20
190 +/40 BP
Beta- 116955
7
60-70
190 +/-50 BP
Beta-116956
9
3040
570 +/40 BP
Table 3. Radiocarbon dates from CA-RIV-6059, Locus B.
Chipped Stone
Preliminary analysis indicates 40 pressure flakes of which 33 are obsidian. There are 8
pieces of debitage. Two points were recovered: a Cottonwood Triangular and a Desert
Side -Notched.
Ceramics
A large quantity of brownware and buffware ceramics was recovered. Sherd total is in
1000s.
Burned Clay
Burned clay fragments are abundant on the site. These are frequently found on prehistoric
sites in this region. Possible uses range from lining storage containers, to flooring, to daub
for siding of structures, to use in baking.
Faunal Material
Analysis of vertebrate faunal is being conducted by Dr. Thomas Wake of the
Zooarchaeology Laboratory, UCLA -
Ground Stone
The ground stone collection from CA-RIV-6059 comprises three metates. The first metate
is represented by five fragments of partially burned sandstone with obvious grinding
surfaces. The second metate is evidenced by two heavily burned, granitic fragments. The
grinding surface of the second metate has several cracks, presumably resulting from being
fired. The third metate is represented by a bifacially worn, lightly burned, granitic
fragment.
14
026
Macrobotanical Study
A macrobotanical analysis of sample from Locus B is being conducted by Dr. Virginia
Popper at the Paleoethnobotany Laboratory at UCLA.
Pollen Analysis
A pollen analysis of samples from Locus B is being conducted by Dr. Owen Davis,
Department of Geosciences, University of Arizona.
Other Material
22 freshwater shell fragments were identified as comparing favorably to freshwater mussel
(Anodonta). Ten other pieces of shell were identifiable only as univalves and one fragment
was unidentifiable. Eleven of the total shell fragments were thermally -affected.
Thermally affected rock: 122 granitic, 3 schist.
CA-RIV-6060
Radiocarbon Dating
One radiocarbon age determination has been provided by Beta Analytic from charcoal in
Feature 1 at this site (Beta-] 12309, 350 +/-30 BP).
Ceramics
A small quantity of brownware and buffware ceramics was recovered.
Burned Clay
A small quantity of burned clay is present on the site.
Faunal Material
Analysis of vertebrate faunal is being conducted by Dr. Thomas Wake of the
Zooarchaeology Laboratory, UCLA.
A human cremation was recovered from this site during monitoring for the Avenue 48
Extension Project (Brock 1998). This was excavated as Feature 1. The material was
immediately turned over to the Riverside County Coroner's Office and has subsequently
been reburied along with remains from the Eagle Hardware project.
LAQ3-H
Analysis of glass artifacts from this deposits indicates a probable date of post-] 950.
15
027
immediately turned over to the Riverside County Coroner's Office and has subsequently
been reburied along with remains from the Eagle Hardware project.
LAQ3-H
Analysis of glass artifacts from this deposits indicates a probable date of post-1950.
LAQ4-H
Analysis of glass artifacts from this deposits indicates a probable date of post-1950.
LAQ5
A small quantity of indigenous ceramics and burned clay was recovered from this site.
PRELIMINARY DISCUSSIONANTERPRETATION
Five sites have been identified on the study area: CA-RIV-6059 (LAQ1), CA-RIV-6060
(LAQ2), LAQ3-H, LAQ4-H, and LAQ5.
The northeastern part of site CA-RIV-6059, Locus B, was found to contain a large, deep,
buried prehistoric occupation site. This site occupies 0.76 acre of the study area. Its
minimal depth below the ground surface is approximately 40 centimeters and it goes over
2 meters in depth in some places. This site relates to the shoreline of the last stand, of the
Ancient Lake Cahuilla, or possibly the second to last stand. There is also evidence: that it
was used after the desiccation of the lake. This site is capable of addressing many of the
research questions presented in the Research Design above.
The southern portion of CA-RIV-6059, termed "Locus A," contained a large quantity of
pottery and thermally -affected rock. This material was confined to the ground surface with
the soil the area having been deflated. It was subsequently picked over by relic seekers
and disturbed by vehicular traffic. It subsequently has little research value.
Sites CA-RIV-6060 and LAQ5 are light deposits of prehistoric material. These have
limited research value. With the exception of Feature I at CA-RIV-6060 these two sites
are undateable.
The two putative historical refuse deposits, LAQ3-H and LAQ4-H, have material that
indicates they date to the second half of this century and consequently do not qualify as
cultural resources.
MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
SITE EVALUATION
16
C'• 1 028
Under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act a cultural resource can be
regarded as potentially significant, and therefore potentially eligible for inclusion in the
National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), if it meets one or more of the following
criteria:
A. Association with events that have made a significant contribution to the
broad patterns of history.
B. Association with the lives of persons significant in our past.
C. Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of
construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high
artistic values, or that represent a significant distinguishable entity whose
components may lack individual distinction.
D. Have yielded or may be likely to yield information important in history
or prehistory.
Under Appendix K of CEQA an archaeological resource is significant if it meets one; of the
following criteria: (a) it is associated with an event or person of recognized significance in
California or American history, or recognized scientific importance in prehistory; (b) it can
provide information which is both of demonstrable public interest and useful in addressing
scientifically consequential and reasonable archaeological research questions; it has a
special or particular quality such as oldest, best example, largest, or last surviving example
of its kind; it is at least 100 years old and possesses substantial stratigraphic integrity; or
(e) it involves important research questions that historical research has shown can be
answered only with archaeological methods.
Additional criteria of significance is found in eligibility for the California Register of
Historical Resources (CRHP), which is based upon the criteria used for Federal
undertakings whereby resources are evaluated for their eligibility for inclusion in the
National Register of Historic Places (see above).
Our research has indicated that CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2), LAQ3-H LAQ4-H, and LAQ5,
along with the southern portion of CA-RIV-6059 (LAQ1), are non -unique or insignificant
due to their inability to provide data to increase our knowledge of the prehistory and
history of the area in a substantial and meaningful way.
Locus B of CA-RIV-6059 is significant in that it is the best known and best preserved
example of its type and it contains a full spectrum of materials that are capable of
addressing numerous research questions. Material consists of a wide range of ceramics,
stone tools, faunal remains (bone and shell), burned clay, and charcoal, among; other
things. Features such as hearths and house circles also appear to be present.
17
r•'' 029
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is strongly recommended that all rough grading and major trenching be monitored by a
qualified archaeological monitor. The project area is in a region of high sensitivity for
buried archaeological resources. When and if additional resources are encountered, during
grading work should halt in the vicinity of the find and an assessment of the significance of
the find should be made and a treatment plan should be developed, as necessary, to
mitigate impacts.
It is recommended that the area of Locus B of CA-RIV-6059 shown in Attachment B be
preserved, in situ, as park space because of the research potential of the site, along with its
substantial depth, thickness, and high density of material. It preservation is unfeasible a
data recovery program is recommended.
REFERENCES CITED
Bailey, Harry P.
1966 Weather of Southern California. California Natural History Guides 17.
University of California Press, Berkeley.
Barrows, David P.
1900 Ethno-botany of the Coahuilla Indians. University of Chicago Press,
Chicago.
Bean, Lowell John
1972 Mukat's People: The Cahuilla Indians of Southern California. University
of California Press, Berkeley
1978 Cahuilla. In California, edited by Robert F. Heizer, pp. 575-587.
Handbook of North American Indians, Vol. 8, William G. Sturtevant,
general editor. Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C.
Bean, Lowell John, and Katherine Siva Saubel
1972 Temalpakh: Cahuilla Indian Knowledge and Usage of Plants. Malki
Museum, Banning.
Binford, Lewis R.
1964 A Consideration of Archaeological Research Design. American Antiquity
29:425-441.
Brock, James
1997a Heritage Resource Assessment for the Extension of Avenue 48 Between
Jefferson Street and the Emergency Evacuation Channel, City of La Quinta,
California. Ms. on file, Eastern Information Center, California Historical
Resources Information System, UC Riverside.
18
`' 030
1997b Cultural Resources Assessment for a Proposed Stockpile Site North of
Avenue 48 Between Jefferson Street and the Emergency Evacuation
Channel, City of La Quinta, California. Ms. on file, Eastern Information
Center, California Historical Resources Information System, UC Riverside.
1998 Report on Archaeological Monitoring for the Extension of Avenue 48
Between Adams Street and Jefferson Street, La Quinta, California. Ms. on
file, Eastern Information Center, California Historical Resources
- Information System, UC Riverside.
California Department of Parks and Recreation
1989 Archaeological Resource Management Reports (ARM&): Recommended
Contents and Format. California Office of Historic Preservation, California
Department of Parks and Recreation, Sacramento.
Campbell, E.W.C., and W.H. Campbell
1935 The Pinto Basin Site: An Ancient Aboriginal Camping Ground' in the
California Desert. Southwest Museum Papers 9:1-51.
Cooper, Madge E.
1976 La Quinta-The Gem of the Desert. In Heritage Tales of Coachella Valley,
edited by Florence Powell, pp. 40-41. American Association of University
Women, Palm Springs, California.
Demcak, Carol R.
1997 Archaeological Assessment of 40-Acre Parcel in La Quinta (La Quinta
Quad), Riverside County, California. Ms. on file, City of La Quinta.
Ebeling, Walter
1986 Handbook of Indian Foods and Fibers of Arid America. University
of California Press, Berkeley, California
Gunther, Jane D.
1984 Riverside County, California, Place Names: Their Origins and Their
Stories. Rubidoux Printing, Riverside, California.
Heizer, Robert F., and Thomas R Hester
1978 Great Basin Projectile Points: Forms and Chronology. Ballena Press
Publications in Archaeology, Ethnology and History No. 10. Ballena Press,
Socorro, New Mexico.
Hopper, Lucille
1920 The Cahuilla Indians. University of California Publications in American
Archaeology and Ethnology 16:316-379. Berkeley.
19
1
Kroeber, A.J.
1908 Ethnography of the Cahuilla Indians. University of California Publications
in American Archaeology and Ethnology 8:29-68. Berkeley.
1925 Handbook of the Indians of California. 1976 reprint edition. Dover
Publications, Inc., New York.
Strong, William Duncan
1929 Aboriginal Society in Southern California. University of California
Publications in American Archaeology and Ethnology 26:1-349. Berkeley.
Toenjes, James H.
1998 Consideration of Clay Uses. In Investigations at the Burning Dune Site
(CA-RIV4754), Avenue 48 Extension Project, La Quinta, California
(draft), by James Brock and Brenda D. Smith, pp. 63-65. Ms. on file, City
of La Quinta, La Quinta, California.
Warren, Claude N.
1984 The Desert Region. In California Archaeology, by Michael J. Moratto, pp.
339-430. Academic Press, New York.
Warren, Claude N., and Robert H. Crabtree
1986 Prehistory of the Southwestern Area. In Great Basin, edited by Warren L.
D'Azevedo, pp. 183-193. Handbook of North American Indians, Vol. 11,
William C. Sturtevant, general editor. Smithsonian Institute, Washington
D.C.
Waters, Michael R.
1983 Late Holocene Lacustrine Chronology and Archaeology of Ancient Lake
Cahuilla, California. Quaternary Research 19:373-387.
Wilke, Philip J.
1978 Late Prehistoric Human Ecology at Lake Cahuilla, Coachella Valley,
California. Contributions of the University of California Archaeological
Research Facility No. 38. University of California, Berkeley.
1111El0El007
20
032
Attachment A. Cultural resources identified on the study area plotted on a portion of the
USGS 7.5' La Quinta, California topographic quadrangle (1959, photorevised 1980).
&-., 033
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Village on the Green, La OWN
Plan of Prehistoric Sites
Attachment B. Map of the eastern portion of the study area showing unit and feature locations in
relation to the prehistoric sites.
Ii,-" 034
RESTRICTED INFORMATION —NOT FOR PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION N170AN75 N170M
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Attachment C. Map of the eastern portion of the study area showing backhoe trench locations in
relation to the prehistoric sites.
035
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE: JUNE 18, 1998
ITEM: PHASE II ARCHAEOLOGICAL TEST PROGRAM FOR CA-RIV-
5972, COVE AREA OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA
PREPARED FOR: COACHELLA VALLEY HOUSING COALITION
PREPARED BY: JAMES BROCK, ARCHAEOLOGICAL ADVISORY GROUP
BACKGROUND:
The report of the results of a Phase II test excavation program for CA-RIV-5972 has been submitted
to the City for review and acceptance. The site is a prehistoric archaeological resource located in the
Cove area on three lots on Avenida Herrera.
The testing consisted of surface collection and six hand excavated units. Recovered were 49 ceramic
sherds of Cahuilla pottery. A base fragment of a jasper Cottonwood Triangular projectile point was
also found during the excavation.
The report points out that it is unlikely that such a site could survive in a newer subdivision given the
rough grading techniques used today. The site is thought to be a satellite processing camp that was
a part of a larger system of settlement. The site has been determined not to be significant or unique
according to state of federal criteria. However, because there could be subsurface cultural deposits
remaining on the three lots, the report recommends that archaeological monitoring (spot checking)
be conducted for trenching activities connected with house construction on the three lots.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Minute Motion to accept as submitted the report, with the recommendation to the Building
Official that archaeological monitoring of the utility and foundation trenches on the three subject lots
be spot checked by an archaeologist for subsurface deposits.
Attachment:
1. Confidential Archaeological Report ( HPC only)
Prepared by:
,,
LIE MOURI AND
Associate Planner
C AMydatatriv 5972. wpd
Submitted by: /,
U
CHRISTINE DI IORI
Planning Manager
a.:. C36
Phase II Archaeological Test Program
for CA-RIV-5972,
Cove Area of La Quinta, California
(APNs 773-084-017, 773-084-019, and 773-085-006)
Prepared for:
Coachella Valley Housing Coalition
45-701 Monroe Street, Suite G
Indio, California 92201
Prepared by:
James Brock, MA, RPA
April 1998
USGS Topographic Quadrangle: La Quinta, California
Acreage: Less than one
Key Words: La Quinta, The Cove, Site CA-RIB✓-5972
P.O. BOX 491, PIONEERTOWN, CA 92268-0491
Tel: (760) 228-1142 o Fax: (760) 369-4002
E--mail: archadvgrpCfsaol.c C 3 7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
ManagementSummary ...............................................................................................
1
Introduction.................................................................................................................
1
4
Setting .............. ... ...:......................... ................ ...........................................................
4
tting..................
NaturalSe................................................................................
CulturalSetting...............................................................................................
5
ResearchDesign..........................................................................................................
10
Methods........................................................................................................................
Fieldwork Technigues....................................................................................
12
12
Laboratory Techniques ..................................................................................
13
Findings........................................................................................................................
Fieldwork Details and General Findings ....................................................
13
13
Analysis of Recovered Material...................................................................
16
Discussion/Interpretation..........................................................................................
19
ManagementConsiderations.....................................................................................
21
SiteEvaluation................................................................................................
21
Recommendations..........................................................................................
22
ReferencesCited.........................................................................................................
22
Appendix 1: Personnel Qualifications.....................................................................
25
Appendix 2: Site Artifact Catalog.............................................................................
26
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. General location of study area................................................................
2
Figure 2. Specific location of study area.................................................................
3
Figure 3. Site map for CA-RIV-5972......................................................................
14
15
Figure 4. General view of the site............................................................................
15
Figure 5. View of completed Unit 1........................................................................
17
Figure 6. Stratigraphy of Unit 2...............................................................................
17
Figure 7. Stratigraphy of Unit 3...............................................................................
Figure 8. View of completed Unit 4........................................................................
18
Figure 9. View of completed Unit 5........................................................................
18
Figure 10. Selected ceramics from CA-RIV-5972................................................
20
Figure 11. Cottonwood Triangular point fragment ..............................................
20
4.- 038
MANAGEMENT SUMMARY
This report presents the results of a Phase II test excavation program
conducted for archaeological site CA-RIV-5972 in the Cove area of the City
of La Quinta. The study investigated three lots on Avenida Herrera (APN
numbers 773-084-017, 773-084-019, and 773-085-006) that contain
portions of the site.
A surface collection was conducted along with the excavation of six one -
by -one meter test units. The site produced 52 specimens of which 49 are
ceramics comprising Native American brownwares and buffwares. One
projectile point fragment was found. No features or material for
radiocarbon dating were encountered.
The site can be loosely dated to AD 500 to AD 1800. It has little ability to
address the research questions proposed in the Research Design and
consequently is evaluated as ineligible for inclusion on the National
Register of Historic Places and as non -unique by CEQA standards.
Limited monitoring of utility and foundation trenching is recommended as a
condition of approval for the project.
INTRODUCTION
This reports presents the findings of a Phase H (test excavation) cultural resources study for
archaeological site CA-RIV-5972 which was conducted in advance of disturbance to the
site by single family home construction on three lots (APN numbers 773-084-017, 773-
084-019, and 773-085-006). These lots front on Avenida Herrera between Calle Hildalgo
and Avenida Montezuma. This site is in the "Cove" area of the City of La Quinta,
California (Figures I and 2). The study comprised fieldwork consisting of surface
collection of artifacts by transit and hand excavation, along with mapping, drawing, and
sampling of deposits. The detailed analysis of this recovered information is presented
herewith. The project was conducted by Archaeological Advisory Group for the Coachella
Valley Housing Coalition.
1
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Figure 1. General location of the study area plotted on a portion of the USGS Western
United States Series 1:250,000 Santa Ana, California map (1959, revised 1979).
2
0 Feet 2500
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Figure 2. Location of the study area plotted on a portion of the USGS 7.5' La Quinta,
California topographic quadrangle (1959, photorevised 1980).
3 6.,; C41
The present site under consideration, CA-RIV-5972, was discovered during a Phase I
survey in September 1997 of 30 lots in the La Quinta Cove (Brock 1997). The site was
recorded as a pottery, scatter of 30+ sherds measuring 40 by 40 meters. The site fell within
3 of the 30 lots under consideration in the study (APNs 773-084-017, 773-084-019, and
773-085-006). These lots were consequently dropped from the report to expedite building
approvals for the 27 unaffected lots. So while these lots were not described in the Phase I
report they were actually surveyed as part of that study and they obviously had positive
results.
Various legal requirements resulted in this study being prepared. Because the project is
sponsored in part by HUD, Federal archaeological requirements are applicable. This study
is specifically intended to address the requirements of the National Environmental Policy
Act of 1969, Executive Order 11593, and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation
Act of 1966 as defined in the regulation of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation,
"Protection of Historic and Cultural Properties" (36 CFR Part 800).
The cultural resource requirements of the City of La Quinta are also applicable. These are
intended to fulfill those aspects of the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (as
amended) which pertain to the management of cultural resources that may be impacted by
development projects sponsored by state or local government agencies, or by private
developments requiring a discretionary permit or license.
This report was prepared in accordance with the recommended contents and format
described in the State's Preservation Planning Bulletin Number 4(a) (California
Department of Parks and Recreation 1989).
The Principal Investigator for this study was James Brock. The field crew consisted of Mr.
Brock, William A. "Pony" Sawyer, James H. Toenjes, and Steven K. Dies. Laboratory
work was conducted by Brenda D. Smith. The qualifications of these individuals are given
in Appendix 1.
Field notes and other material pertaining to this study are on file with Archaeological
Advisory Group (AAG Job No. 980202). Curation of the artifacts/ecofacts collected during
this study will be the responsibility of the City of La Quinta.
SETTING
NATURAL SETTING
CA-RIV-5972, the Avenida Herrera site, is located in the City of La Quinta, in the
Coachella Valley area of Riverside County, California (Figures 1 and 2). The three lots
under investigation, which comprise portions of site CA-RIV-5972, are located on Avenida
Herrera between Calle Hildalgo and Avenida Montezuma. These comprise APN numbers
4
C42
773-084-017, 773-084-019, and 773-085-006. The parcels are in the "Cove" area of the
City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California.
The study area falls within the southern half of Section 1 of Township 6 South, Range 6
East, SBBM. This site is located on the USGS 7.5' La Quinta, California topographic
quadrangle (Figure 2).
The three study area lots form components of an existing subdivision built on an alluvial
plain. The area has been graded and consequently the original topography is unknown.
Soil typically comprises a gray -tan silty sand with gravel and cobbles that ranges from
loose to well compacted.
The elevation of the site is approximately 55 feet msl. The nearest natural source of water
is Bear Creek drainage which, severely channelized, now flows south to north
approximately one -quarter mile west of the project area. The study area would have been
slightly higher than the northwestern shoreline of the ancient Lake Cahuilla (now the
Salton Sea) during its last high stand. This final stand is estimated to have been about 42
feet msl (12.8 meters). The last stand is believed to have occurred during the 1600s.
Native vegetation in the Cove area has been largely eliminated. It would have comprised a
Creosote Scrub community, containing creosotes (Larrea tridentata), mesquite (Prosopis
glandulosa), burrobush (Ambrosia dumosa) and other stickery scrubs (including Dicoria
canescens and Schismus barbatus). Animal species typically encountered in the area
include cottontail, jackrabbit, pack rat, pocket mouse, coyote, scorpion, Western Shovel -
nosed Snake, Sidewinder, Desert Iguana, Side -blotched Lizard, Loggerhead Shrike,
Mourning Dove, Say's Phobe, Gambel's Quail, Common Raven, Anna's Hummingbird,
Red-tailed Hawk, Lesser Nighthawk, and American Kestrel.
CA-RIV-5972 falls within the Lower Sonoran Life Zone, as does approximately 1501/o of
Cahuilla territory (Bean and Saubel 1972:12). This zone extends from the desert floor to
the pinyon -juniper belt (about 3,500 feet). The Coachella Valley, due to it placernent on
the eastern side of the Peninsular ranges, is blocked from receiving moisture moving
eastward from the Pacific. This blockade results in low rainfall of generally less than 5
inches of precipitation annually. Not only does this region have little rainfall, but it. is also
one of the hottest deserts on the continent, having a mean maximum temperature in July
that easily exceeds 100' (Bailey 1966:42).
CULTURAL SETTING
While the regional ethnography of the study area is fairly well accounted for, its precontact
history is poorly understood. Archaeologists have struggled for years to put together
comprehensive chronologies for what is referred to as the Prehistoric Period (time
preceeding contact with Europeans) of Native American history. The sequence of
prehistoric habitation presented here is based primarily on the concordance of sequences
presented by Warren (1984) and Warren and Crabtree (1986). Warren's timeframe
5
divisions were based on technological changes in lithic use (i.e. millingstones and
projectile points). His model was originally devised for the Mojave desert region, but
because of basid technological similarities in southern California Indian cultures it is also
applicable to the Colorado desert peoples.
Lake Mojave Period
This period probably represents the earliest phase of human occupation in southern
California. It began by at least 10,000 B.C. and lasted until around 5000 B.C. This period
is characterized by hunting of larger games animals using spears and articulated spear -
throwing devices termed "atlatls." Spear points of this period initially were quite large,
lanceolate in shape, and were oftentimes fluted, having a longitudinal groove along the
central portion of the body for attachment to a spear. Other projectile points such as Lake
Mojave, Parman, and Silver Lake points, were somewhat smaller (though still large in
comparison to later arrow points) and foliate in shape. Crescents, specialized scrapers,
leaf -shaped knives, drills, and some choppers/hammerstones are other tools which have
been identified with this period. Millingstones typically are not present. The artifact
assemblage of this period is indicative of a generalized hunting and gathering subsistence
economy.
Archaeological sites from early on in this period were generally associated with Pleistocene
lake shorelines. As the Altithermal (a warmer and drier climatic period that lasted from
6000 B.C. to 900B.C.) set in, sites began to concentrate around desert oases, away from
receding lakes that were becoming too brackish for consumption. This movement likely
spawned the technological change that would lead to the Pinto Basin complex.
Pinto Period
The Pinto Period dates from around 5000 to 2000 B.C., corresponding roughly to the
Millingstone Horizon in the coastal areas of California. Although desert and coastal
peoples shared cultural traits during this period, desert peoples probably did not have the
same dependence on millingstones as coastal peoples. Seed grinding does not appear to be
an important economic activity yet to the peoples of this period, but the presence of flat
slab and occassionally shallow -basin metates along with manos, indicates growing
importance that plant seed resources were beginning to have. Presumably these peoples
were still maintaining a large and small game hunting and vegetal gathering economy
during this period. Pinto points, as defined by Campbell and Campbell (1935), are the
distinctive lithics of this period. These are usually found in association with heavy -keeled
scrapers, and millingstones.
Pinto Basin complex sites are generally found in association with ephemeral lakes, stream
channels, and springs, which to some suggests a break in the Altithermal warming.
Presumably there was a reoccupation of lakeshore areas around 4500 B.C. and then a
retreat back to desert oases by 3500 B.C. This time period is known as the Little Pluvial.
Gypsum Period
The Gypsum Period is believed to date from around 2000 B.C. to about A.D. 500. Again,
primary artifacts indicative of this period are projectile points of various types, including
Gypsum Cave, Humbolt series, and Elko series points. The early Gypsum period is
characterized by larger projectile points when use of the dart and atlatl were still common.
Later, with the introduction of the bow and arrow, smaller points become prominent.
Manos and metates become more common, and the mortar and pestle come into use --
indicating a developing reliance upon fleshier seed foods such as mesquite pods and
acorns. Presence of Hahotis and Olivella shell beads in sites of this period provide the
earliest evidence for contact between desert and coastal peoples.
Saratoga Springs Period
The Saratoga Springs Period lasts from about A.D. 500 to 1200. During this period the
southern desert region, in which the Coachella Valley lies, deviates from the rest of the
desert region due to heavy cultural influence by the Hakataya, a lower Colorado River
group. The Hakataya influence brings drastic technological change to the peoples, of this
region. Buffware and Brownware pottery, made using the paddle and anvil technique, are
introduced and reliance on the bow and arrow increases which leads to a new projectile
point type called Cottonwood Triangular. Millingstones, including manos, metates, pestles,
and mortars are present in this time period.
Late Prehistoric Period
The Late Prehistoric Period spans from A.D. 1200 to contact with Europeans. It is
characterized mostly by continuing regional development, which causes groups to
differentiate technologically, ethnographically, and linguistically. In the Coachella. Valley
region, Hakataya influence continues, with Colorado Buffware and Tizon Brownware still
present. Desert Side -notched points have become the dominant point type.
Proto-historic Period
Desert Cahuilla have inhabited the Coachella Valley region for at least the last 1000 years.
They are a Takic speaking people who are more closely culturally tied with coastal and
Colorado River groups than with most other Mojave desert peoples. First known contact
with the Cahuilla by a European was during the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition in 1774-
1776. They were largely ignored by the Spanish until the establishment of the Asistencias
San Antonio de Pala (1816), Santa Ysabel (1818), and San Bernardino (1830). Through
these mission outposts the Spanish managaed to indirectly influence Cahuilla religious
beliefs and culture. During the Mexican occupation of California, the Cahuillla were
largely left alone by intruders. It was not until 1853 when the Southern Pacific Railroad
began surveying the Coachella Valley for a possible railroad route that the Cahuilla were
again bothered. By this point the lands inhabited by the Cahuilla had become desired by
Americans. In response to this, President Ulysses S. Grant began allotting Cahuilla lands
7
li.0 045
in 1875 to give to American settlers. It was during this period when the removal of the
Cahuilla to goverment reservations began. Ten reservations were created that affected the
Cahuilla; of these four are in the Coachella Valley.
Ethnography
Many studies of Cahuilla culture have been conducted over the years. Among the most
informative accounts are Bean (1972, 1978), Strong (1929), Hooper (1920), and Kroeber
(1908). Four excellent ethnobiological studies also exist (Ebeling 1986, Barrows 1900,
Kroeber- 1925, and Bean and Saubel 1972), as well as archaeological accounts of
prehistoric Cahuilla adaptations to the desiccation of ancient Lake Cahuilla (e.g. Wilke
1978).
The Cahuilla are divided by anthropologists into three subgroups, the Desert Cahuilla of the
Coachella Valley, the Pass Cahuilla of the San Gorgonio pass area, and the Mountain Cahuilla
of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains. These divisions were based on geographic
separation and dialect differences, but they were not neccessarily recognized by the Cahuilla
themselves. Actually, the Cahuilla did not consider themselves to be of one tribe as western
anthropologists have designated them to be. Bean (1972:85) reported that "the maximal level
of social identification among the Cahuilla was the ?ivi?lyu?atum, a linguistically and
culturally defined group ... [which] refers to persons speaking the Cahuilla language and
recognizing a commonly shared cultural heritage ... [but] a more precise membership
criterion existed at the next level of group identity." A person's inclusion in his or her moiety
and lineage (or clan) was primary to any tribal affiliation.
The two moeities, or main divisions, of the Cahuilla were the Istam (coyote) and the Tuktum
(wild cat). Moieties were patrilinear and exogamous, meaning that lineage was followed
through the father and that members of one moiety had to marry into the other. Clans were
numerous and were named after or associated with the villages they comprised. Individual
clans claimed ownership over their village and the territories in which they hunted, gathered,
and camped. Territories could be several square miles in extent and were only for the use of a
specific lineage. Mesquite grove boundaries, for instance, were drawn to include specific
trees. Everyone knew who those trees belong to so that if someone from another lineage was
found trespassing, a fight could ensue. But in times of need, areas were shared with other
clans. This allowance occurred regularly with mesquite because these groves do not produce
bountiful crops each year. In the case of crop failure, a neighboring clan would invite the
misfortunate person into their territory to gather.
Historical Background
Some homesteaders were present in La Quinta as early as late last century, however the
real origins of modern La Quinta rest with the opening of the La Quinta Hotel in 1926
(Cooper 1976:40). This was a hotel and winter resort with a golf course. It was developed
on part of 1400 acres owned by the Desert Development Company (Gunther 1984:286).
The Cove area is the earliest residential subdivision in La Quinta, dating back to the 1930s.
The little 100 by 50 foot lots typically sold for 300 to 700 dollars (Cooper 1976:41). Some
3
k+. 046
of the oldest houses in La Quinta can be found in this area, which has never been fully built
out.
Records, Literature, and Archaeological Background Information
An archaeological records search was conducted during the Phase I survey for this study
(see Brock 1997). This was conducted by the Eastern Information Center of the California
Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) at lJC Riverside. This records search
indicated that the three lots had not been surveyed prior to the Phase I study and that no
cultural resources had been recorded on them. Five cultural resources had been identified
within one mile of the study area. Only about 15 percent of the area within a one -mile
radius had been previously surveyed for cultural resources.
Of the five previously recorded sites one falls within one-half mile of the study area. This
is CA-RIV-296, which falls to the east of the study area and, until the recording of CA-
RIV-5972, was the only previously recorded site to fall within the Cove. This was
recorded by McKinney and Gothold of Pacific Coast Archaeological Society in 1963. This
is described as a surface deposit with a cremation, burned bones, charcoal, painted and
plain sherds (some drilled), a metate and mano, several points, a square shell bead, an
abalone pendant, "cooking rocks," and chipping waste.
Four additional sites fall to the southeast within the one-half to one mile range. These are
described as follows:
CA-RIV-I179: Habitation area with sherds, fire -affected rock, carbonized basketry,
fish bone, and cremations.
CA-RIV-2825: One grinding slick.
CA-RIV-2826: One bedrock mortar and 5 grinding slicks.
CA-RIV-2827: Large site complex with "brown plainware," fire -affected rock,
Anadonta shell, and a metate fragment.
Based on the presence of ceramics, all of the prehistoric sites within the one -mile; radius
appear to be relatively recent in date (post AD 500) with the possible exception of the
bedrock milling features (CA-RIV-2825 and CA-RIV-2826).
The present site under consideration, CA-RIV-5972, was discovered during a Phase I
survey in September 1997 of 30 lots in the La Quinta Cove (Brock 1997). The site was
recorded as a pottery scatter of 30+ sherds measuring 40 by 40 meters. The site fell) within
3 of the 30 lots under consideration in the study (APNs 773-084-017, 773-084-019, and
773-085-006). These lots were consequently dropped from the report to expedite building
9
W(; 00 7
approvals for the 27 unaffected lots. So while these lots were not described in the Phase I
report they were actually surveyed as part of that study and they obviously had positive
results.
Archival research was also conducted during the Phase I study (Brock 1997). It is largely
immaterial for the present research but, if interested, the reader should refer to it.
RESEARCH DESIGN
1� 117111L��CIL`I
A research design is a guide document to organize research and interpret findings. It
provides a structure from which the evaluation of significance can be made. A research
design is usually regional in scope and based on some type of statistically -based
sampling program (see Binford 1964). A research design generally has the following
elements: (1) a theoretical orientation, (2) research areas, or domains, under which come
(3) specific research hypotheses or questions which have (4) test implications for
interpretation of field data.
THEORETICAL ORIENTATION
The theoretical orientation which structures this research design is cultural materialism.
Cultural materialism assumes that decision making by people and groups is based upon
economic considerations. It assumes that behavior, at least in the long term, is rational and
therefore adaptive. It recognizes that people and groups have not and do not always behave
in a rational manner but from the relatively gross temporal perspective of archaeology,
such behavior is not statistically significant.
RESEARCH DOMAINS
The research domains, or topics, which will be considered are chronology, subsistence
practices, settlement systems, and exchange systems. Discussions of these domains are
provided below.
Chronology
Chronology is the backbone of archaeology. Establishing the sequence of cultural
change through time is a fundamental concern in archaeology. Unless a site can be
placed in a temporal context, its ability to address the evolution of a cultural system is
seriously limited. Fortunately, datable material (e.g. charcoal) is relatively abundant on
sites in the La Quinta area. Abundant Late Period sites are present in the La Quinta area.
A major concern in La Quinta archaeology is establishing changes in Late Period
settlement and subsistence patterns in relation to the changes in the water level of
ancient Lake Cahuilla. Also, earlier sites are rare. Any data helping to establish an
Archaic Period chronology for the area is extremely valuable.
10 �.:, 048
• Does the site contain sufficient material for absolute or relative dating?
Test implications: presence of carbon in sufficient quantity to provide absolute dates,
presence of temporally -sensitive artifact types.
■ Is there any evidence for an Archaic Period use of the site?
Test implications: absolute (e.g. carbon) date of pre -AD 900 or presence of artifacts
(e.g. projectile points, beads) dated to pre -AD 900.
■ Can the site be tied in to one or more of the postulated stands of ancient Lake Cahuilla
(see e.g. Waters 1983)?
Test implication: absolute date(s) that corresponds to a postulated stand of Lake
Cahuilla.
• Is there any evidence for a post -Lake Cahuilla use of the site?
Test implication: absolute or relative date of post -AD 1650, presence of historical
artifacts.
Subsistence Practices
The presence of faunal remains, floral remains, and artifacts associated with food extraction
and processing can provide valuable information on the subsistence practices of precontact
Native Americans. Midden deposits can provide a good range of evidence for exploitation
of faunal resources. Also, carbonized seeds from sites could provide evidence of early
agricultural activities, which are suspected to have occurred in the region but, as yet, lack
archaeological evidence. Reconstruction of ceramic vessel forms and the types of ground
stone implements present could provide information on the types of resources being
exploited by the site's inhabitants.
■ Is there evidence of a change in subsistence strategies at the site, particularly ones
relating to the desiccation of Lake Cahuilla?
Test implication: change in frequencies of particular faunal or floral species in
stratigraphically discrete contexts dating to the last stand and later periods.
■ Is there evidence of agriculture? If so, does it relate to changing subsistence practices
forced by the desiccation of Lake Cahuilla?
• Is there evidence of what, if any, subsistence activity(ies) was being engaged in at the
site?
11
-" 049
Settlement Systems
Information on settlement patterns should be present in the information from the site.
Data may present evidence of changing settlement patterns with the, different lacustral
episodes of Lake Cahuilla and those caused by the final desiccation of the lake.
■ Does the site indicate settlement associated with the exploitation of Lake Cahuilla
resources?
■ Can settlement location be related to a particular stand of ancient Lake Cahuilla?
■ Is there evidence of a change in settlement patterns pertaining to the desiccation of
Lake Cahuilla?
• Was shoreline occupation at Lake Cahuilla primarily seasonal or year round (Wilke
1978:14)?
Exchange Systems
Patterns of exchange should be evidenced in artifactual material from the site. Such things
as lithic types, ceramics, and beads present could indicate trade relations with other
groups (e.g. Colorado River or coastal California). The following research questions have
been developed to address this domain:
■ Are exotic resources present at the site? Do these represent direct procument or
exchange mechanisms?
■ Is there evolution through time in the types or quantities of non -local resources
present?
■ Is the local catchment area sufficiently diverse in natural resources to
discourage trade relations?
■ Is there evidence of the exchange of technologies or ideas, rather than material
objects?
METHODS
FIELDWORK TECHNIQUES
Standard archaeological field methods were utilized during this project. Excavation units
were one -by -one meters. Soil was excavated in arbitrary 10 cm levels and screened using
1/8a'-inch mesh shaker screens. All units were drawn in profile, photographed, and had soil
samples taken from each discernible stratigraphic level. Surface collection was done by
transit and 50 meter hand tape.
12
C. � 059
The sampling strategy was intuitive due to the constraints of working with selected lots and
having a road traversing the middle of the site.
,In accordance with State Historic Preservation Office guidelines, all cultural materials,
structures, features, and objects over 45 years in age were considered for potential cultural
resource value.
Geological Consultation
Harry M. Quinn, consulting geologist, inspected the site during the excavation on February
26, 1998. His findings are presented in a separate brief report (Quinn 1998). The
stratigraphy generally comprises sands with fluvial characteristics and silts with ponded
sediment characteristics.
Native American Consultation
Anthony Andreas, a Cahuilla consultant, visited the excavation on February 26, 1998 and
provided helpful input. He expressed no major concerns about the site given its disturbed
condition and low density of material.
LABORATORY TECHNIQUES
General
Laboratory work consisted of the cleaning, sorting, cataloging, and analysis of the
recovered specimens. A computer database program was utilized for the artifact)'ecofact
catalog. Specimens from the site are numbered with the California state trinomial (CA-
RIV-5972) and a catalog number. Catalog numbers are five digits. The first two numbers
denote the material/analysis category: CE (ceramics), CS. (chipped stone), FA (faunal), MI
(miscellaneous), and SH (shell).
FINDINGS
FIELDWORK DETAILS AND GENERAL FINDINGS
A detailed map of CA-RIV-5972 showing unit and surface collection locations is presented
as Figure 3. This map should be referred to when following this discussion.
Fieldwork for this data recovery project was conducted on the following days in 1998:
February 25, 26, and 27. The field crew consisted of James Brock, William A. Sawyer,
Steven K. Dies, and James H. Toenjes. A photograph of work in progress is shown as
Figure 4.
No features were located on either the ground surface or in the excavation units.
13
r- C 51
Curb
APN 773-084-017 r�
Unit 5
� oo° l
o
o �
C0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 ® ®—Unit 2
Unit 6 0 0 Datum (lot corner)
Existing House� Not a Part
Unit 4\o 0
APN 773-084-019
0
Key:
® — Test Excavation Unit
o — Surface Artifact (pottery)
CA-Rid-5972
/ Extent of Site
Unit 3
O
APN 773-085-006
Unit 1,�
= o
Curb
Not a Part J
J
Existing House
0 Meters 20
0 Feet 60
Figure 3. Site map for CA-RIV-5972 showing surface artifact distribution and test excavation unit locations.
14
14 , 052
Figure 4. General view of the site with work in progress, looking northeast.
Figure 5. View of completed Unit 1, looking south.
15
Surface Collection
The surface collection resulted in the acquisition of 23 pottery sherds from 21 locations.
These are shown in Figure 3. Three of the sherds are buffware while 20 are brownwares.
No other types of artifact/ecofact were found during the surface collection. Two globular
cobalt bead that were noted during the survey phase were not relocated.
Unit Descriptions
Six units were excavated at the site (see Figure 3). These were 1 by 1 meter in size. The
stratigraphy across the site was generally the same. All units produced disturbed modern
material to 30 to 40 centimeters. These upper levels were disturbed silty sands. The
modern material typically consisted of such things as bottle glass fragments, nails, cigarette
butts, and plastic, metal, and rubber fragments. The modern refuse was noted but not
collected. The prehistoric pottery recovered from the units generally came from levels
producing modern refuse. Minor charcoal flecking was apparent in the upper levels of all
units but this was of insufficient quality and quantity to allow for radiocarbon dating.
Sterile soil was generally reached at 50 to 60 centimeters and postholes were dug; in the
bottoms of the units to ensure that further artifact producing layers were not present; below
the unit floor.
Below the disturbed layer the stratigraphy consisted of silty sands with minor silt lenses.
Unit 1 contained intact, prehistoric material from 30 to 50 centimeters. This was the only
area of the site where the prehistoric material was not mixed with later refuse. It was dug
to 60 centimeters and postholed (see Figure 5).
The stratigraphy of Units 2 and 3 are shown in Figures 6 and 7. Units 4 and 6 produced no
prehistoric material. The stratigraphy of Unit 4 is shown in Figure 8. Unit 5 produced four
sherds in its top, disturbed level (Figure 9).
ANALYSIS OF RECOVERED MATERIAL
A total of 323.0 grams of cultural material came from CA-RIV-5972. Of this, 321.11 grams
(99.4%) comprised indigenous ceramics, with the balance of the material comprising one
chipped stone fragment and two faunal specimens. Appendix 2 contains the site artifact
catalog which should be referred to for detailed information about the collection.
Ceramics
CA-RIV-5972 produced 49 sherds of Cahuilla pottery. Twenty three specimens came from
the surface collection and 26 came from the test units. Forty one (83.7%) of the sherds are
brownware and 8 are buffware (16.3°/u). No further typing of the brownwares and
buffwares was attempted.
16
Unit 2
Stratigraphic Profile of West Wall
O
0• ° O ° o o P
°
5
n e a
0 20cm
Unit 3
Stratigraphic Profile of West Wall
0 20cm
Figure 6, Stratigraphy of Unit 2.
Figure 7. Stratigraphy of Unit 3.
17
1 Olive (6Y 413) fine silty sand with coarse
sand. Contains modern refuse and
prehistoric ceramics.
1a Olive (5Y 413) loose Pole sand and humic
lenses.
2 Modem fill. Olive (10Y 513) slightly
compact very fine sand. Contains
plaster fragments, modern refuse and
prehistoric ceramics.
3 Loose to slightly compact silty sand.
Grayish brown (2.5Y 612). No cultural
material.
4 Moderately compact silt tense. No
cultural material.
6 Slightly compact fine silty sand. No
cultural material.
1. Disturbed silty finely layered olive (6Y
413) sands and organics. Gravels and
modern material.
2 Olive 15Y 513) slits avid fine sands.
3 light olive gray silty sands.
4 Same as Layer 2.
6 Olive gray (5Y 612) Silty sands with a little
gravel.
6 Olive (SY 613) silty sands Interspersed
with sifts and fine sands.
7 Olive (5Y 513) compacted silty sands.
i C55
Of note was a particularly large (144.8 grams) brownware sherd from Unit 1 (Figure 10).
Three rim sherds were collected (see Figure 10). Of these, none are of sufficient size to
indicate the type of vessel they represent, although all are suspected to be cooking pots.
Chipped Stone
One chipped stone specimen made of jasper was recovered from the 20 to 30 centimeter
level of Unit 2. This is a base fragment of a Cottonwood Triangular projectile point
(Figure 11). This would indicate a Late Prehistoric date for -the site (see Heizer and Hester
1978).
Faunal Material
One unidentified univalve shell and an unidentified bird bone fragment were recovered
from Unit 1.
DISCUSSIONANTERPRETATION
The discovery and test excavation of CA-RIV-5972 is instructive in that it demonstrates the
potential for prehistoric sites to remain intact in older developed subdivisions, in this case,
the La Quinta Cove. Given the mass grading techniques of today it is unlikely that such
sites could survive a modern subdivision project.
Unfortunately the potential for CA-RIV-5972 to provide significant research data is very
limited as will be seen during the addressing of research domains below.
Chronology
CA-RIV-5972 failed to produce material (e.g. carbon) that could provide an absolute date
for the site. Instead, the pottery and the one projectile point present only indicate a Late
Period date for the site. This could date anywhere from AD 500 to AD 1800.
Subsistence Practices
The material recovered from CA-RIV-5972 provides little evidence of subsistence activities
undertaken at the site. The one projectile point fragment indicates hunting of small game.
The pottery, if cooking vessels, indicates some sort of food processing on the site.
What is interesting is the negative evidence. The absence of fish bone may indicate that the
site was not associated with the exploitation of Lake Cahuilla resources and may reflect a time
of use when the lake was not full.
19
'• 057
Figure 10. Selected ceramics from CA-RIV-5972. Left: large brownware sherd from Unit I (Cat.
No. CE023). Right, top -to -bottom, rim sherds: brownware (Cat. No. CE009), brownware (Cat.
No. CE024), buffware (Cat. No. CE035).
20
Figure 11. Cottonwood Triangular
projectile point fragment with
original form extrapolated (Cat.
No. CS001).
`-" C 58
Settlement Systems
It seems clear that CA-RIV-5972 represents a satellite processing camp in a larger
settlement system. Because the site can not be reliably dated and because the activities
occurring on it are unclear, it aids little in enlightening us on past settlement systems in the
region.
Exchange Systems
Very little information on exchange systems can be gleaned from the CA-RIV-5972
investigations. No exotic materials were recovered from the site.
MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
SITE EVALUATION
Under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act a cultural resource can be
regarded as potentially significant, and therefore potentially eligible for inclusion in the
National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), if it meets one or more of the following
criteria:
A. Association with events that have made a significant contribution to the
broad patterns of history.
B. Association with the lives of persons significant in our past
C. Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of
construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high
artistic values, or that represent a significant distinguishable entity whose
components may lack individual distinction.
D. Have yielded or may be likely to yield information important in history
or prehistory.
Under Appendix K of CEQA an archaeological resource is significant if it meets one of the
following criteria: (a) it is associated with an event or person of recognized significance in
California or American history, or recognized scientific importance in prehistory; (b) it can
provide information which is both of demonstrable public interest and useful in addressing
scientifically consequential and reasonable archaeological research questions; it has a
special or particular quality such as oldest, best example, largest, or last surviving example
of its kind; it is at least 100 years old and possesses substantial stratigraphic integrity; or (e)
it involves important research questions that historical research has shown can be
answered only with archaeological methods.
21
C59
Additional criteria of significance is found in eligibility for the California Register of
Historical Resources (CRHP), which is based upon the criteria used for Federal
undertakings whereby resources are evaluated for their eligibility for inclusion in the
National Register of Historic Places (see above).
Based upon the results of this test program CA-RIV-5972 can not qualify as significant or
unique under either Federal or State of California criteria.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The Phase II test excavation program resulted in a small sample of the site being dug. It is
possibly, although unlikely, that significant resources could exist on the site and could be
impacted by the house construction proposed for the three lots investigated. It is therefore
recommended that archaeological monitoring be conducted for utility and foundation
trenching at the site. This should minimally include a spot check of open utility and
foundation trenches. The most cost effective way to conduct this monitoring is to excavate
the trenches for the three structures at the same time, thus only requiring one or two visits
to the site by an archaeologist. A brief report on the results of the monitoring should be
prepared and submitted to the City of La Quinta.
REFERENCES CITED
Bailey, Hairy P.
1966 Weather of Southern California. California Natural History Guides 17.
University of California Press, Berkeley.
Barrows, David P.
1900 Ethno-botany of the Coahuilla Indians. University of Chicago Press,
Chicago.
Bean, Lowell John
1972 Mukat's People: The Cahuilla Indians of Southern California. University of
California Press, Berkeley
1978 Cahuilla. In California, edited by Robert F. Heizer, pp. 575-587.
Handbook of North American Indians, Vol. 8, William G. Sturtevant,
general editor. Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.
Bean, Lowell John, and Katherine Siva Saubel
1972 Temalpakh. Cahuilla Indian Knowledge and Usage of Plants. Malki
Museum, Banning.
22
060
Binford, Lewis R.
1964 A Consideration of Archaeological Research Design. American Antiquity
29:425-441.
Brock, James
1997 A Cultural Resources Assessment of 27 Lots in the La Quinta Cove Area,
City of La Quinta, California (Self Help Groups 6, 7, and 8). Ms. on file,
CHRIS, University of California, Riverside.
California Department of Parks and Recreation
1989 Archaeological Resource Management Reports (ARMR): Recommetuled
Contents and Format. California Office of Historic Preservation, California
Department of Parks and Recreation, Sacramento.
Campbell, E.W.C., and W.H. Campbell
1935 The Pinto Basin Site: An Ancient Aboriginal Camping Ground in the
California Desert. Southwest Museum Papers 9:1-51.
Cooper, Madge E.
1976 La Quinta-The Gem of the Desert. In Heritage Tales of Coachella
Valley, edited by Florence Powell, pp. 4041. American Association of
University Women, Palm Springs, California.
Ebeling, Walter
1986 Handbook of Indian Foods and Fibers of Arid America. University of
California Press, Berkeley, California
Gunther, Jane D.
1984 Riverside County, California, Place Names: Their Origins and Their
Stories. Rubidoux Printing, Riverside, California.
Heizer, Robert F., and Thomas R. Hester
1978 Great Basin Projectile Points: Forms and Chronology. Ballena Press
Publications in Archaeology, Ethnology and History No. 10. Ballena Press,
Socorro, New Mexico.
Hopper, Lucille
1920 The Cahuilla Italians. University of California Publications in American
Archaeology and Ethnology 16:316-379. Berkeley.
Kroeber, A.J.
1908 Ethnography of the Cahuilla Indians. University of California Publications
in American Archaeology and Ethnology 8:29-68. Berkeley.
1925 Handbook of the Indians of California. 1976 reprint edition. Dover
Publications, Inc., New York.
23
t, 061
Quinn, Harry M.
1998 Short Report on the Avenida Herrera Site in the Cove Area of La Quinta,
California. Ms. on file, Archaeological Advisory Group, Pioneertown,
California.
Strong, William Duncan
1929 Aboriginal Society in Southern California. University of California
Publications in American Archaeology and Ethnology 26:1-349. Berkeley.
Warren, Claude N.
1984 The Desert Region. In California Archaeology, by Michael J. Moratto, pp.
339-430. Academic Press, New York.
Warren, Claude N., and Robert H. Crabtree
1986 Prehistory of the Southwestern Area. In Great Basin, edited by Warren L.
D'Azevedo, pp. 183-193. Handbook of North American Indians, Vol. 11,
William C. Sturtevant, general editor. Smithsonian Institute, Washington
D.C.
Waters, Michael R.
1983 Late Holocene Lacustrine Chronology and Archaeology of Ancient Lake
Cahuilla, California. Quaternary Research 19:373-387.
Wilke, Philip J.
1978 Late Prehistoric Human Ecology at lake Cahuilla, Coachella Valley,
California. Contributions of the University of California Archaeological
Research Facility No. 38. University of California, Berkeley.
24
�,62
APPENDIX 1: PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS
James Brock (President/Chief Archaeologist)
■ BA (Anthropology) UC Santa Barbara
■ MA (Archaeology) University of Durham, Durham, England
■ Registered Professional Archaeologist (ROPA Member)
■ 18 years of experience as a Principal Investigator on cultural resource
management projects throughout southern California
William A. Sawyer (Senior Archaeologist)
■ BA (Anthropology) CSU Long Beach
■ Graduate work, CSU Long Beach
• 20 years of cultural resource management experience throughout southern and
central California
Steven K. Dies (Archaeologist)
• BA (Anthropology) Humboldt State University
■ 20 years of cultural resource management experience in California
James H. Toenjes (Archaeologist)
■ BA (Historical Archaeology) UC Santa Cruz
■ Graduate work, University of Tennessee
■ 20 years of cultural resource management experience in California
Brenda D. Smith
• BS in Antropology, UC Riverside
■ MA candidate, Native American Studies Program, UCLA
■ 5 years of cultural resource management experience in southern California
25
�;63
APPENDIX 2: SITE ARTIFACT CATALOG
26
Page No. 1
04/16/98
SITE ARTIFACT CATALOG FOR
CA-RIV-5972 (THE HERRERA STREET SITE)
AAG
FORM:LCI-CAT.FRM
CATALOG LEVEL
OTHER
FEATURE NUMBER
MINIMUM
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
NUMBER UNIT (CMS)
LOCATION
NUMBER OF PCS
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
TYPE
NOTES
(CMS)
ISMS)
CE001 -
SCOOT
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
5.6
GR-BR/RED-
MR TNT,
BR
EXT
CE002
SCO02
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
6.4
GR-BR
TEMP
SM TNT,
EXT
CE003
SCO03
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
MENDS
TO SC004
7.6
BR/BT
MR TNT
SAME
AS S0005
SM EXT
BT
CE004
SCO04
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
MENDS
TO CE.003
7.4
BR/BT
MR TNT
SAME
AS CE:005
SM EXT
(INC)
BT
CE005
SCO05
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
SAME
AS CE003 &
2.8
BR/BT
MR TNT
CE004
SM EXT
BT
CE006
SCO06
2
1 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
7.3
GR-BR/BR
TEMP
MR INT,
EXT
LB
CE007
SCO07
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
9.1
BR/BR-BT
MR TNT
XR EXT
BT
CE008
SCO08
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BUFFW,
M TEMP
2.0
RED -TAN
SM TNT,
EXT
LB
CE009
SCO09
1
0 SHERD,
RIM
BRNW,
C TEMP
5.2
GR-BR/BR
XR TNT,
EXT
CE010
SC010
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BUFFW,
C TEMP
2.2
RED-TAN/RE
MR INT
D
SM EXT
CE011
SCOTT
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BUFFW,
C TEMP
3.2
RED-TAN/GR
XR TNT
SM EXT
LB
CE012
SCO12
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
7.3
GR/RED-BR
MR INT,
EXT
LB
CE013
SCO13
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
9.6
RED -BR
TEMP
MR TNT,
EXT
CE014
SCO14
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C (MC)
3.3
BR/BR
TEMP
MR TNT,
EXT
27 n c
Page No. 2
04/16/98
SITE
ARTIFACT CATALOG FOR
CA-RIV-5972
(THE HERRERA
STREET
SITE)
AAG
FORM:LQ-CAT.FRM
CATALOG
LEVEL
OTHER
FEATURE NUMBER MINIMUM
DIMENSIONS
NUMBER
UNIT
(CMS)
LOCATION
NUMBER OF PCS
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
TYPE
NOTES (CMS)
CE015
SCO15
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
BR/BR
SM INT,
EXT
CE016
SCO16
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
GR/BR
MR INT,
..
EXT
.
LB?
CE017
SCO17
2
1 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
BR/GR-BR
SM INT,
EXT
LB
CE018
SCO18
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
BR-BT/ BT
SM INT,
EXT
BT
CE019
SC019
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
RED-BR/BR
TEMP
MR INT,
EXT
CE020
SCO20
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
RED -BR
TEMP
MR INT,
SM EXT
CE021
SCO21
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
RED -BR
MR INT
SM EXT
CE022
01
030-040
1
1 BRNW, RED
-BR
BRNW,
C TEMP
RED -BR
ME INT,
EXIT
CE023
01
040-050
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
BR/RED-BR
MR INT
SM EXT
LB
CE024
01
040-050
3
1 SHERD,
RIM
BRNW,
C TEMP
BR/BR
SM.INT, _
EXT
LB
CE025
02
000-010
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW, GR
M TEMP
SM INT,
EXT
BT
CE026
02
000-010
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
GR-BR
SM INT,
EXT
BT
CE027
02
000-010
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BUFFW,
F TEMP
RED-TAN/TA SM INT,
N
EXT
CE028
02
000-010
2
1 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
BR/GR
XR TNT
MR EXT
CE029
02
010-020
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
RED-BR/GR
XR INT
MR EXT
CE030
02
010-020
1
0 SHERD,
BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
BR/BR
TEMP
SM INT,
EXT
LB
w
WEIGHT
(GMS)
1.3
2.3
w
6.0
3.5
2.2
1.1
144.8
6.5
0.9
0.9
1.6
5.1
5.4
t. 066
Page No.
3
04/16/98
SITE
ARTIFACT CATALOG FOR
CA-RIV-5972
(THE
HERRERA STREET
SITE)
AAG
FORM;LQ-CAT.FRM
CATALOG
LEVEL OTHER
FEATURE NUMBER MINIMUM
DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT
NUMBER
UNIT
(CMS) LOCATION
NUMBER OF PCS NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
TYPE
NOTES (CMS)
ISMS)
CE031
02
020-030
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BUFFW,
C TEMP
4.4
RED-TAN/RE
XR INT
D
SM EXT
CE032
02
020-030
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
3.9
BR/BR
TEMP
..
..
•'
9R INT ..
MR EXT
CE033
03
000-010
3
1
SHERD, BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
8.0
BR/BR
XR INT,
EXT
LB
CE034
03
000-010
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
3.7
BR/BR
SM INT,
EXT
LB
CE035
03
020-030
2
1
SHERD, RIM
BUFFW,
C TEMP
7.9
RED-TAN/TA
MR INT,
N
EXT
LB
CE036
03
020-030
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BRNW;
C TEMP
2.7
GR-BR/RED-
SM INT,
BR
EXT
LB
CE037
03
020-030
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BRNW,
M TEMP
0.8
GR-BR/GR
SM INT,
EXT
8T
CE038
05
000-010
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BRNW,
M (MC)
4.0
BR/BR
TEMP
SM INT,
EXT
LB
CE039
05
000-010
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BRNW,
C TEMP
1.5
BR/GR-BR
SM INT,
..
EXT..
CE040
05
000-010
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BRNW,
F (MC)
2.3
BR/BR
TEMP
SM INT,
EXT
CE041
05
000-010
1
0
SHERD, BODY
BUFFW,
F TEMP
12.5
RED-TAN/RE
SM INT
D
MR EXT
CS001
02
020-030
1
0
POINT BASE FRAG
COTTONWOOD
JASPER,
0.4
TRIANG
PURPLE
FAO01
01
020-030
1
0
BONE, FRAG
LONG,
0.2
SHAFT
FS001
01
030-040
1
0
UNIVALVE
UNIDENTIFI
1.3
ED
*** Total
***
323.0
29
061
BI #C
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE: JUNE 18, 1998
ITEM: CLG GRANT PROPOSAL FOR 1998
BACKGROUND:
Staff is preparing a grant application for the 1998 CLG Grant Program to seek funds for
the development of a Preservation Plan for the City of La Quinta, and to revise the City's
Historic Preservation Ordinance. The plan would be integrated into the Cultural Resources
Element of the General Plan that is currently being drafted for the General Plan Update.
The City has a draft Preservation Plan that was prepared by staff in 1996, but it is not
comprehensive and detailed and needs to be revised and updated. The ordinance would
be reviewed for any necessary changes to ensure that it provides the best protection
requirements and procedures for the cultural resources in La Quinta. The best suited
consultant would be selected through the Request for Proposals process to prepare the
Preservation Plan and revise the ordinance.
The application will request $10,000 in grant funding with a 40% match from the City of la
Quinta required. The matching portion will consist of in -kind services such as, staff time,
postage, office supplies, commissioner time for review and comments, etc. The grant
monies, if awarded, would pay the consultant's fee. The project would begin in October
1998. The total value of the project would be $14,000. The grant application is attached
to this report.
The grant application is scheduled to be considered by the City Council on July 7, 19987
after which with Council approval, staff will submit the application package to the State
Office of Historic Preservation.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Minute Motion to recommend to the City Council that the City submit the CLG
grant application.
Attachment:
1. CLG Grant Application for 1998
Prepared by:
�L SLIE MOUR�UAND
Associate Planner
Submitted by:
c 4
CHRISTINE DI IORI
Planning Manager
C:Wvdata\HPCJuneI Rclgapp.wpd
n
ATTACHMENT #1
1416 96 Street, Room 1442-7/P.O. Box 942896
Sacramento, CA 95814/94296-0001
GRANT APPLICATION CHECKLIST
(Include with Application Form)
NOTE: Even though no points are provided for completeness, be aware that all elements
listed here must be received by JUNE 1 1998. If not received, the package will be
considered incomplete and will not be reviewed
X Environmental Certification
X Certification of Professionalism
X Civil Rights Assurance of Compliance (DI Form 1350)
X Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters,
Drug -Free Workplace Requirements and Lobbying.
X Copy of Preservation Plan or element that ties in with proposed project.
Applicable maps and estimated acreage (see Application -Form) required for survey
proj ects.
Applicable maps and photographs plus significance statement for National Register
projects.
X Applicable resumes of Key Personnel or Volunteers to Work on Project.
NOTE: No, this year the OHP is not requiring a resolution from the governing body authorizing the
application and matching funds. However, the Application Form must be signed by an authorized
representative responsible for executing all documents including the contract, which assures
matching share; i.e. Director of Planning.
doc1m.108 4w 063
FISCAL YEAR 1998
APPLICATION FORM
CLG APPLICANT: City of La Quinta
Contact Person: Leslie Mouriquand
Address: 78-495 Calle Tampico La Quinta
Phone:(760) 777-7068 Fax:(760) 777-1233
County of.
Congressional Names(s) & District(s): Rep. Mary Bono 44th District
2. PROJECT SUMMARY: Summarize in one or two sentences within the space provided the vitle, objectives,
activities, or desired results of your project. A more detailed description will be completed under Project Scope.
Title: City of La Quinta Preservation Plan and Historic Preservation Ordinance Revision. Ohiectives and activities:
To develop a comprehensive Preservation Plan that will he integrated into the City's new General Plan Cultural
Resources Element; and to revise the City's Historic Preservation Ordinance to provide the best procedures and
requirements for protection of the local resources.
3. TYPE OF PROJECT FEDERAL S REOUESTED
Context $
Fully Developed?
Survey_ : $
Intensive
Reconnaissance
Approximate acreage to survey
National Register $
Training $
XX Other $_ 0 000
L]
Model Training Program
•" 079
dochn. 108
4. PROJECT SCOPE (65 points) (Be brief! Use continuation sheet only if necessary.)
/n 1996, the City of La Quinta staff prepared a draft Preservation Plan to accompany a CLG grant
application for the same year. Tire draft plan was prepared as a requirement of the SHPO, and is very
basic. This basic plan is in need of revision and completion to tailor it to the specific needs and
requirements of the City of La Quinta with its historical, archaeological, and paleontological
resources. In the past few years, the City's Preservation Program has evolved to a more sophisticated
level of preservation efforts, creating a need for more refined preservation guidelines and tools. For
example, the City would like to develop guidelines.for resource (paleontological, historical, and
archaeological) investigations, establish a Mills Act program, establish a list of historical structures
needing seismic retrofitting and the procedures, develop the City's Landmark program guidelines,
among other procedures and programs. The Preservation Plan would contain the structure, goals,
and policies for these program components.
With the requested grant money, La Quinta would hire a consultant, through the Request For
Proposals process, to assist in the revision of the City's Preservation Plan. The City will match the
requested grant money with staff time and in -kind services and supplies. The revised and completed
Preservation Plan would become an integral component of the newly established Cultural Resources
Element of the La Quinta General Plan. The City is updating its' General Plan this year and will be
including the new element, thus the need to revise the existing Preservation Plan.
Tree current Historic Preservation Ordinance for the City of La Quinta is also in need ,of revision to
include additional procedures and mechanisms for consideration and protection of the City's cultural
resources. In the past few years, as staff has implemented the existing ordinance, there have been
sections of the ordinance that have been identified as lacking certain provisions and mechanisms
needed by staff to implement the ordinance with real success for preservation. The ordinance
revision would be a second component of the project scope to be.funded by the requested grant
money. This component of work would also be researched and prepared by the same consultant
selected to prepare the City's Preservation Plan, in coordination with City staff.
071
dochn.108
4
5
6.
7
PRODUCTS: What products) will be derived from the projects?
A. Comprehensive Preservation Plan document
B. Revised Historic Preservation Ordinance document
ADMINISTRATION (10 POINTS) (Names and/or experience of individual groups necessary to implement
your project.)
La Quinta City Council - will approve final products, hiring of consultant, and grant proposal
submittal.
La Quinta Community Development Department - will administer the contract using "Secretary of
the Interior's Standards and Guidelines" and serve as staff to the La Quinta Historic Preservation
Commission (LQRPQ).
La Quinta Historic Preservation Commission - will oversee progress of consultant and review
products toward forwarding recommendations to the City Council for adoption.
BUDGET (25 Points) (Break out fringe benefits, if any.)
A. Amount of Federal Funds Requested $1 o.000 oo
Amount of matching share* $6,666.00
*Match must directly relate to the implementation of the proposed project.
NOTE: In calculating match, use the following formula:
Amount of funds requested - .60 = Total Project Cost
Total Project Cost x .40 = Required Matching Share
FOR EXAMPLE: If you are requesting $15,000:
$15,000 = .60 = $25,000 (total project cost)
$25,000 ..40 = $10,000 (required match)
B. SOURCE OF NON-FEDERAL MATCH
(1) Donor :
City of La Quinta
Source :
General Fund
Kind :
In -kind Services
Amount:
$6,666.00
(2) Donor
Source
Kind
Amount
doc1m108 e. 072
C. BUDGET
Cost
Categories
Rate Used To
Calculate Cost
Cash From
Grant
Other
Cash
In -Kind
Scrv�ces
$ Per hour x no.
of hours
Salaried Employees
Associate Planner
Fringe
$ x
38,1 ION,
Planning Manager
Fringe
Community Development Director
Fringe
$ x
33.06%
Executive Secretary
Fringe
$ x
44.28%
Secretary_
Fringe
$ x
52.02%
City Attorney
$135 x
Finance Department
Volunteers*
Architect (1)
$35.50 x
Historian (1)
$21_00 x
Volunteers with no experience
$5.75 x
Supplies, copying, postage, etc. (be
specific)
Photocopying
$0.25/pg x
Postage & tnisc. supplies
$15000
Travel Costs**
Staff
$0.24 x mi
City Office Space
100 sq. Ft $1.00/sq. Ft. x 1 me.
$100 Ull
180 sq. Ft @ 1.00/sq. Ft. x '/z mo.
$90.00
$190.00
*Rate shall not exceed $53.50 per hour
073
dochn.108
6
Cost
Rate Used To
Cash From
Other
In -Kind
Categories
Calculate Cost
Grant
Cash
Scrvices
Contracted Services
$10,000
Matching share
$6,666.00
"Maximum allowable car mileage rate is $.24 per mile
7. SIGNATURE. (Original application must be sued and dated in ink.)
(Elected official or authorized signature)
Mayor City of La Quinta
Title
Date
074
dochn.108
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
Based upon a review of the application, proposal narrative, and the supporting documentation contained in
the application, it has been determined that the proposed Historic Preservation Fund project meets the criteria for
categorical exclusion.*
City of La Quinta
Applicant
June 11,.1998 _
Date
*NPS Environmental Review Compliance Requirements are attached as part of the Appendices for ,your
information, and do not need to be returned.
075
Notice of Exemption
Appendix 1
To: ® Office of Planning and Research
1400 Tenth Street, Room 121
Sacramento, CA 95814
® County Clerk
County of Riverside
P 0 Box 751
Riverside CA 92502
From: (Public Agency) City oi' La Quinta
78-495 Calle Tampico
(Addrar)
La Quinta California Q9^F'l
Project Title: City of La Quinta Preservation Plan
Project Location - Specific: City-wide in La Quinta
Project Location - City: La Quinta Project Location - County: Riverside
Description of Project: Grant funded development of Historic Preservation Plan for
City of La Quinta
Name of Public Agency Approving Project: City Council for City of La Quinta
Name of Person or Agency Carrying Out Project: Historic Preservation Commission
Exempt Status: (check one)
❑ Ministerial (Sec. 2108MXl); 15268);
❑ Declared Emergency (Sec. 210WbX3)-.I5269(a));
❑ Emergency Project (Sec. 21080(b)(4); 15269(bXc));
13 Categorical Exemption. Slate type and section number.
❑ Statutory Exemptions. State code number.
Information Collection - 15308
Reasons why project Is exempt- Project consists of research, development of policies,
goals, and objectives.
Lead Agency
Contact Person: Leslie Mouriquand AreaCodeJrelephone/Extension: (760) 777-7068
If riled by applicant:
1. Attach certified document of exemption finding.
2. Has a notice of exemption been filed by the public agency approving the project? ❑ Yes [n No
Signat`7�ioh(�i��1 w Date: July 7, 1998 'title: Associate Planner
❑ Signed by Lead Agency Date received for filing at OPR:
❑ Signed by Applicant oo'v 0 % 6
Revised Octobo 1989
U. S. DEPARTMENT Of THE INTERIOR
CIVIL RIGHTS ASSURANCE
As the authorized representative of the applicant. I certify that the applicant agrees that as a
condition to receiving any Federal financial assistance from the Department of the Interior, it will
comply with all Federal laws relating to nondiscrimination. These laws include, but are not limited
to: (a) Title VI of Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 20o0d-1), which prohibits discrimination on the
basis of race. color. or national origin: (b) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. as amended (29
U.S.C. 794). which prohibits discrimination on the the basis of handicap: (c) the Age Distzinunation ACE of
1975. as amended (42 U.S.C. 6101 eL seq.). which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age: and
applicable regulatory requirements to the end that no person in the United States shall, on the
grounds of race, color. national onein. handicap or age. be excluded from participation in, be•denied
the benefits of, or he otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity conducted by
the applicant. THE APPLICANT HEREBY GIVES ASSURANCE THAT it will immediately take
any measures necessary to effectuate this agreement.
THIS ASSURANCE shall apply to all aspects of the appiicant!s operations including those parts that
have not received or berietined from Federal tin=cial assist „ce
If any real property or structure thereon is provided or improved with the aid of Federal financial
assistance extended w the Applicant by the Department. this assurance shall obligate the Applicant.
or in the case of any transter of such property, any transferee, for the period during which the real
property or structure is used for a purpose for which the Federal financial assistance is extended or for
another purpose involving the provision of similar services or benefits. If any personal property is so
provided, this assurance shall obligate the Applicant for the period during which it retains ownership
or possession of the property. In all other cases. this assurance shall obligate the Applicant for the
period during which, the Federai anancaai assistance is extended to it by the Department.
THIS ASSURANCE is given in consideration of add for the purpose of obtaining any and all Federal
grants. loans. contracts. property, discounts or other Federal financial assistance extended after the
Jate hereof to the Applicant by the Department. including installment payments after such date on
account of applicants for Federal dmancaai assistance which were approved before such date.
The Applicant recognizes and agrees that such Federal financial assistance will be extended in
reliance on the representations and agreements made in this assurance. and that the United States
shall have the n2ht to seek judicial enforcement of this assurance. This assurance is binding on the
Applicant. its successors. transferees. assignees. and subrecipients and the person whose signature
appears below who' is authorized to sign this assurance on behalf of the Applicant
SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED CERTIFYING OFFICULL I TITLE
Mayor
APPLICANTIORGANIIATION DATE SUSUMED
City of La Quinta I July 7, 1998
APPLICANTIORGANIZATION NAILING ADDRESS I BUREAU OR OFFICE EXTENOING ASSISTANCE
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, California 92253
DI-1350
(REVANI)
„�. ., 677
NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION FUND
SUBGRANT PROGRAM
CERTIFICATE OF PROFESSIONALISM AND CONFORMANCE
PROJECTNAME: City of La Quinta Preservation Plan
Community Development Director
Title of Responsible Official Authorized for Signature
I certify that all research, investigations, surveys, nomination studies and reports prepared as part of this grant
assisted project will be professionally prepared by individuals meeting the professional qualifications specified in the
Federal Register, Volume 48, No. 190, September 29, 1983. All such work will be done according to the Secretary
of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Historic Preservation. Any work not meeting such
Standards will not be reimbursed.
H
Christine di Iorio Name
Planning Manager
11, 1998
07S
U.S. Department of the Interior
Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension and
Other Responsibility Matters, Drug -Free Workplace
Requirements and Lobbying
Persons signing this form should refer to the regulations
referenced beicw far complete instructions:
Certification Regarding Debarment. Suspension, and Other
Responsibility Matters- Primary Covered Transactions. (The
prospective .primary participant further agrees by
submitting this proposal trot It will Include the clause
titled, 'Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension,
Ineligibility and Voluntary Ezeluslon- Lower Tier Covered
Transaction,' provided by the department or agency
entering Into this covered transaction. without
modification, in all lower tier covered transactions and in
ail solicitations for lower tier covered transaetlom. See
below for language to be used; use V= forth for confarbon
and sign; or use Department of the Interior Form tt164 (0I-
1954). See Appenda A of Subpart 0 of 43 CFR Part 12).
Certification Regarding Debarment. Suspension. InekibiTdy
and VOWMary Ezehmen - Lower Tier Covered Transactions -
(See Appends 8 of Subpart 0 of 43 CFR Part 12)
Certification Regarding Drug -Free Workplace Requirements -
Aitemate I. (Grantees Other Than Individuals) and Alternate
It. (Grantees VVho are - Individuals) - (See Appends C of
Subpart 0 of 43 CFR Part 12)
Signakae on this form provides for compliance wah
osrtffintion requirements undar43 CFR Parts 12 and 18. The
ecftl4cation s shall be treated as a ma , * rapaartUdaa of
fact upon which reliance will be plsead when the Department
of the Interior determines to award the covered transaction
gram cooperative agreement or loan.
PART A. . Certification Regarding Debarment Susponsion, and Ottw Responsibility Matters .
Primary Covered Transactions
CNECF IF THIS CERT97CAMN IS FOR A PRWARY COVERED TRArfSACTION AND IS APPIaCAA E
(1) The prospective prim ary participant conliles to the bat of its loawiedge and bdd, that it and its prI '; Ic
(a) Are not Presently debarted. suspended, proposed for debuirm dedared is6gible, or vokxtk* ezduded froth
covered transactions by any Federal departrneM or agony
(b) HavenctwithkraCves-yes►periodpraesdingCts; -F' dbeanconvictedcfcrtuad.acidJudgmentianda against
them for eommisaiori of fraud or ■ cknkul offense in contedlon with obtaining. attempting to a1, - 1 1 or po lonnkq
a public (Federal, State or bcaQ transaction or oonbact hnde a pinball transaction; ablation of Fades d or State
antitrust statutes or commission of embecdernerrL tt dt,forgery, bribery.f or destnjoondheooeds nmaidiq
false statements, or ieeeivirg stolen property
(a) Are not presently Indicted for or otheroAse cknksgr or• ddly charged by a governmental ordffy (Fedeni, Sins or
• Ideal) with commission of any use the Manes maananaded In paragraph (1)(b) of this cons cello; taut
(d) Have not "Idth a ttt Oe-Yo r Period Placedq ills applWfsrlproPosel had ore or men pubic trarmaaelora (Federal,
State or locel) toemiruded for cause or ddoudL
(2) Whoa the prospective primary participant is unable to cerft to any of the etatanents in this oattlladon such poapecke
participant shell aaadh an eapfaetbrh to cads pmposaL
PART 0: Certification Regarding Debarment, suspension, Ineligibility and Voluetary Ezelualon • --
Lower Tier Cowed Transactions
CHEC/f�lF TMS CERTIFICATION IS FOR A LOWER TER COVERED TRAHSACTfON AND IS AppUCAdLE
(1) The prospective sower tier partldpant catllfea by submission of Qds Proposal, that re8hei It nor Ifs pkzipals Is presently
debarred. suspended. proposed for debarment deft ttAgil in or vokzrfarfy cmkdad from patidpatbrh in tide
fransaWon by ary Fedeni depabns oragency
(2) 1 Where the pospectM lower tler parti I; Is tnabls to rsn8jr to ay of tie atatenhatta in this oatffl p N 9 h. such pnepa g's
Po ddpo SW attach an a :Flo atlon to this proposal
C 79
PART C: Certification Regarding Drug -Free Workplace Re"ramems
CHECK IF THIS CERTIFICATION IS FOR AN APPLICANT DMfO IS NOT AN RCMDUAL
Alternate 1. (Grantees Other Thum individuais)
A. The grantee certifies that It will or continue to provide a ding -free workplace by:
(a) Publishing a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use
of a controlled substance is prohibited in the grantee's workplace and specifying tha actions that will be taken against
employees for violation of such prohibition;
(b) Establishing an ongoing ding -free awareness program to Worm employees about—
(1) The dangers of drug abuse -in the workplace;
(2) The grantee's polity of maintaining a drug -free workplace;
(3) Any available drug counseling. rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs: and
(4) The penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations oc urcig in the Workplace:
(c) Making It a requirement that eadh employee to be engaged in the performance of the grant be given a copy of the
statement requ red by pnrragraph (a): .
(d) NoWytng the employee in the statement required by pwagraph (a) that, as a condition of employment under the Want
the employee Wia —
(1) Abide by Cos terms of the statement: and
(2) No* the employer In writing of his or her conviction for a violation of a aft dnp staktla wig in the
workplace no later than five calendar days after such convictioi ;
(e) _ Notifying the agency it writing. within ten obndar days after receiiiing notice under subparegratptt (d)(2) from an
employee or otherwise receiving actual r 1dr a of such convklbn. Empbyets of eonvkxed athpbyess mot provide
notice. i ckedhhg position title. to wary gram officer an wlhouia grant activity the convicted employes was workhq.
unless the Federal agency has designated a ostmai pots for to. of side ratan Notice ehd 6hctuds Cle
identification nuntbers(s) of each sIfected prattle
M Taking one of the f flowng actions. w&M 30 calendar days of receiving n, 9, under subparagraph (d)(2), with'
respect to any a. iployee Who is to conYkted —
(1) Taking appropriate persamhM action against such w employee, up to and including tannnatiM coralete+t with
Me requirements of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. or
(2) Requkng such amp"" to pertidpefe saddectortiy In a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program
approved for sari purposes by a Federal, State. o brat health, law enforpemei a odm pp al: agency,
(g) Making a good faith effort to continue to matrdan a dap -tree workplace through in Pills witaft of paragraphs (a)
(b). (c). (d). (a) arhd M.
B. The gru"S may used In the apace provided babes to sits($ forthe palonnence of warts dons in carhner it m with the
spec grant
Plow of Performance (Street address, city. county, state. zip code)
Check N there are worfptere an file Comm not klantlfted has.
PART D: CarCflesCon Ragarcdng Drug -Free Workplais Requirements
piEd( If THIS CO"ViiICAT)ON IS FOR AN APPL)CAW WO 13 AN /lI CAMAL
Alternate II. (Grantees Who Are trhdivlduafs)
(a) The grantee tar"fin that, as a condition of to grant, he or she wQ not er gage in Ina tnimful mererlbolin.
Mstrtbutim dispensing. Poem a Ilse of a e0 11011 abetaeroe n oaductkM arty SC&* tMlh Cie grant:
(b) N convicted of a cil ill dap oRensa ra$udtkp tram a Hkileft o=wkq during ffie tlondud mf mV t)tartt octivily. he
or she WS repot On convition, in vAb wffl* 10 alendar days of the bonvkft to to gramd oMM or other
des". hfilesa the Federal agency desgnat n a antral poet for the tac,•ipt of such notices. YAw 01 is node
to won n central point it shd lndcrula the kWdMcadon amber(*) of each sneezed WanL ce 080
PART E: Certification Regarding Lobbying
Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative Ag ea ems
CHECK IF CERTIFICATION IS FOR THE AWARD OF ANY OF THE FOLLOIMNG AND
THE AMOMT EXCEEDS 5100,00& A FEDERAL GRANTOR COOPERATIVE AGRF.F.AfENT,•
SUBCONTRACT, OR SUBGRANT UNDER THE GRANT OR COOPERATIVE AGREEMFM.
CHECK IF CERTIFICATION IS FOR THE AWARD OF A FEDERAL
LOAN EXCEEDING THE AMOUNT OF $150,000. OR A SUBGRANT OR
SUBCONTRACT'i:XXCEEDING S100,0K UNDER THE LOAAL
The undersigned certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that
(1) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or va be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for
influencing or attempting to nfiuenee an officer or employee of an agency, a Member of Congress, and oflicar or employee
of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with Qro awo ng of any Federal contract, the making
of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal ban, the ennarng Into of any Cmpenative agreen enL and the eMension,
rxmkhuation, renewal, amends or modification of any Federal contract, Brent, loan, or cooperative agreement.
(2) If any fiords other than Federal appropriated Amds have been paid or will be paid to any person for kdiror aftemptup
to influence an, officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or on
employee of a Member of Congress In connection with this Federal contract, grant, ben, or cooperatiheagreement, the
undersigned shad complete and submit Standard Form-I.I.L. Misdosure Forth to Report Lobbying." in ao with Its
Instructions.
(3) The undersigned shad require that the language of this certification be Included in the award documents for of subawards
at all tiers (ndudng subcontracts, subgranb, and dartracb urnder grants, bans, and cooperative spewnb) and the of
subredpients shad CK* nocordnglY
This certification is a material representation of fact upon whidh refienoa was placed when this transaction was made or a to
into. Submission of thiseardficx6on is a prerequisite for maid: are to ing krto this bmrsacdon knposa , by Section 135Z title
31. U.S. Code. Any person who fads to file to reputed cartl0ufbn shad be subject to a civil penalty of not less then $10.000
and not more than $100.000 for each such fadrae.
As the authorized certifying official. I hereby cer*. that the above specified c P Nile- o ions are true.
SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED CERTIFYING OFFICIAL
John Pefra, Mayor
TYPED NAME AND TITLE
July 7, 1998
DATE
';.J 08,
MARIA L. PUENTE
78-620 Forbes Circle
La Quinta, CA. 92253
# (760) 345-4411
1990-98: Bilingual Elementary and Secondary Teacher.
Desert Sands Unified School District, California, USA.
1993, 1996: Teacher for the G.A.T.E. (Gifted and Talented Education) Program.
Taught Music and Spanish at the elementary level, at Desert Sands
Unified School District.
1988-90: "History of Music' Teacher at High School Level in Madrid, Spain.
1986: "Solfeggio" Music Substitute Teacher at the Royal Conservatory of
Music, Madrid, Spain.
1983: University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain. Practicing School of Archeology
for the Basque Country. Formally enrolled for one school year. Took
part in the excavations in the Cave of Arenaza I (Bilbao, Spain).
EDUCATION
1999: University of Redlands, CA.
M.B.A. candidate.
1997: U.C.R. (University of California, Riverside.)
Certificate in the Education for the Gifted and Talented.
1996: U.C.R. (University of California, Riverside.)
Certificate for the Study of the Multiple Intelligences.
1995: California Professional Clear Teaching Credential:
- Multiple Subjects (Grades k-5).
- Single Subject (Spanish), Grades 9-12.
- BCLAD (Spanish) Professional Clear Credential.
082
1993: Canadian Studies Seminar, organized by the Ministry of Education
of Toronto (Ontario) and the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
1993, 92, 95: Attended C.A.B.E. (California Association for Bilingual Education)
Congress, in San Francisco and Anaheim. California.
1990: Presentation to the XXIII International University Congress
in Madrid, Spain, on "Musical Dissonances at the end of the
Present Milenium", which was later published by the University
Complutense of Madrid, Spain..
1989: Presentation to the XXII International University Congress in Rome,
Italy, on "Music during the French Revolution", which was later published
By the University Complutense of Madrid, Spain
1988: University Complutense of Madrid, Spain.
Institute of Educational Sciences: Certificate of Pedagogical
Competence.
1987: University Complutense of Madrid, Spain.
M.A., Double Major in History and Art.
1989: Royal Conservatory of Music, Madrid, Spain.
Superior Degree in Classical Piano.
Superior Degree in Chamber Music.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES
1997: Reappointed as a member of the La Quinta Historic
Preservation Commission, La Quinta, California.
SKILLS
Languages: Spanish, English, limited Italian and beginning French and German.
Computers: Proficient in Apple Macintosh and IBM PC programs.
Pianist: Played in numerous piano concerts, social occasions and in Musical Plays.
TRAVEL
1989-97: France, Italy, England, Mexico, Canada (Ontario and Quebec),
Guatemala, Puerto Rico, British and U.S. Virgin Islands and in the
U.S. California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Vermont, New York
And Hawaii.
LESLIE J. MOURIQUAND
52-500 Calhoun St.
Coachella, California 92236
(760) 398-1581 Home
(760) 777-7068 Work
E-Mail CRMlady@aol.com.
EDUCATION
1992 Master of Arts, Anthropology, California State University, Fullerton.
Thesis Title: Planning for Community Archaeology It's Applications to
The Eastern Coachella Valley. (Leslie J. Mouriquand-Blodgett)
1983 Bachelor of Science, Anthropology/Geography, California State Polytechnic
University, Pomona. Emphasis on Anthropology/Archaeology.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Thirteen years of increasingly responsible professional experience in Urban/Environmental Planning and
Cultural Resource Management.
July 1992 - Present: City of La Quinta
Community Development Department
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
(760) 777-7125
Title: Associate Planner
Areas of responsibility:
• Perform development, land division, and use permit reviews and project
processing, Specific Plans, General Plan Amendments, Zone Changes,
Ordinances, etc.
• Serve as Environmental Officer for review and coordination of Environmental
Impact Reports and preparation of Environmental Assessments. Preparation of
Mitigation Monitoring Plans. Developed City guidelines for compliance with
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
• Staff support to the La Quinta Historic Preservation Commission.
• Presentations given before the City Council, Planning Commission, Historic
Preservation Commission, and Director's Hearings.
• City representative to the Coachella Valley Habitat Conservation Policy Advisory
Group.
• Research and preparation of City's Historic Context Statement and Preservation
• Plan documents.
• Serve as City archaeologist. Conduct archival research, field surveys, site
testing, and report preparation and review. Coordination with archaeologists
and other environmental experts for specific development projects.
October 1991 - July 1992:
City of Palm Springs
Planning & Zoning Department
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92263
Title: Planner II - Environmental
Areas of responsibility:
• Preparation and review of environmental documents.
• Special Projects - research and report writing.
• Staff support to the Parks, Open Space & Trails (POST) Foundation
• Staff liaison to the Agua Caliente Tribal Council.
• Served as City archaeologist. Prepared and reviewed archaeology reports.
• City representative to the Coachella Valley Association of Governments -
Environment and Technology Committee.
July 1991 - October 1991: Terra Nova Research & Planning
275 N. El Cielo
Palm Springs, CA 92263
Title: Planner
Areas of responsibility:
• Prepared environmental assessment documents to meet state and federal
requirements.
• Prepared and managed planning and development projects.
• Performed contract municipal current and advanced planning duties for the City
of Desert Hot Springs.
• Served as staff archaeologist. Reviewed archaeology reports for form and
content.
January 1990 - April 1991: Riverside County Planning Department
79-733 Country Club Drive
Bermuda Dunes, CA 92201
Title: Planner I & Planner II
Areas of responsibility:
• Performed development, use permit, and land division reviews and project
processing.
• Prepared environmental assessments to meet state and federal requirements.
• Presentations before the East Area Planning Council, County Planning
Commission, and Planning Director Hearings.
• Prepared the award -winning Cahuilla Hills Area Development Study.
• Research for policy and ordinance development.
• Researched and answered public inquiries.
• Served as staff archaeologist. Prepared and reviewed archaeology reports.
June 1985 - February 1990 Leslie Mouriquand-Blodgett, Consultant
3077 N. Shasta
Pomona, CA 91768
Title: Archaeologist- Principal Investigator
Areas of responsibility:
• Consultant to environmental planning firms for the preparation of archival
research, environmental studies, Cultural Resource Management Plans, field
reconnaissance surveys, opportunity and constraints studies, mitigation plans
for the following project types in the following locations:
General Plan Documentation - La Verne, Victorville, Orange, Palmdale, Duarte,
Santa Clarita.
Environmental Impact Report Documentation - Palmdale (2), Oxnard (3),
Pasadena (2), La Mirada, San Marino, El Monte, Palm Springs, Los Angeles(8),
Sunland, Lake Elsinore, Poway, Yorba Linda, Rancho Palos Verdes, Idyllwild,
Calabasas, Santa Monica Mountains.
Environmental Assessment Documentation - Santa Catalina Island, Los Angeles
County (2), Lake Elsinore.
Master Plan Documentation - Palmdale (2),
Redevelopment Plan Documentation - Agoura Hills.
Project types: Residential developments, municipal water and sewer systems, light rail
transit routes and stations, mountain resort complex, raceway complex,
municipal reservoirs, university improvements, quarry permitting,
redevelopment and commercial projects, etc.
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP
1985 - 1987 California State University, Fullerton, Department of Anthropology.
Research and teaching assistant (four semesters)
AWARDS AND GRANTS
1996 Certificate of Recognition - Outstanding Local Cultural Resource Management Program.
Awarded by Association of Environmental Professionals - Inland Empire Chapter.
1990 Riverside County Planning Department Merit Award: "Cahuilla Hills Area Development Study".
1988 California State University, Fullerton - Organizational Award: Founding President of Lambda
Alpha National Anthropology Honor Society- Eta of California Chapter.
1987 California State University, Fullerton - Department of Anthropology Writing Competition: Best
Student Paper for "The Burial Practices of the Elite: Missouri -Illinois Hopewell."
1987 Jenkins, Douglas, Gardner Memorial Research Grant Award: "Prehistoric Clay Figurines of
California."
1986 CSUF Departmental Association Council Research Grant: "Prehistoric Clay Figurines of
California."
MEMBERSHIPS AND APPOINTMENTS
Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP)
Society for California Archaeology (SCA)
Lambda Alpha National Honor Society for Anthropology
Coachella Valley Archaeological Society (CVAS) -Symposium Committee, President 1998
Society for American Archaeology (SAA)
Malki Museum Association
California Women for Agriculture (CWA)
Archaeological Survey Association IASA)
American Rock Art Research Association (ARARA)
Joshua Tree National Park Advisory Commission - Appointed Commissioner 7/97 to 7/01
ACTIVITIES
Participant - Project Archaeology, curriculum development for elementary and middle school
students. Department of Defense program. 1996-1997
Invited Speaker - local elementary classrooms to talk about archaeology and the Cahuilla
people.
Organizer - Historic Preservation Workshoo, sponsored by the City of La Quinta, November, 2,
1996.
Contributor - Coachella Valley Archaeological Society Newsletter, (Articles, News briefs, etc.).
Invited Organizer/Leader - American Planning Association Conference Mobile Workshop on
Coachella Valley Archaeology and Cultural Resource Management, October 3, 1996.
Invited Speaker - Historic Preservation Workshoo, sponsored by the State Office of Historic
Preservation, January 24, 1997, El Centro, California.
Invited Speaker - Palm Desert High School, Advanced Drafting Class, "Archaeology and the
Planning Process", April 8, 1997.
Organizer/Master of Ceremonies - "First ymposium on the Archaeologv of the CQ cchhella Valley
and Adjacent Areas". May 3, 1997, La Quinta, California.
Participant, SCA Southern Data Sharing Meeting, Oct. 18, 1997, paper presented - "Cultural
Resource Management in La Quinta"
Invited Speaker - Indio Soroptomists Club, Nov. 20, 1997, "Cultural Resource Man clement in
La Quinta".
Invited Speaker - Society for American Archaeology Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA, March 27,
1998, Symposium title: The Power of Local Preservation Law; Paper title: "A Tale of
Two Cities- La Quinta Then and Now"
Organizer/Master of Ceremonies - "2nd Annual Symposium on the Archaeology of the Coachella
Valley & Adiacent Areas," May 16, 1998, Desert Museum, Annenberg Theater, Palm
Springs, California.
Invited Speaker - Carter School, Palm Desert, CA. 2"' graders, "Archaeology and Indians," May
28, 1998.
087
Title 7
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Chapters:
7.02 General Regulation and Administration
7.04 Historic Preservation Commission
7.06 Historic Resources, Historic Landmarks and
Historic Districts
7.08 Permits and Permit Procedures
7.10 Enforcement —Penalties
161 ( Q Q(L. Q.. }93)
7.02.010
Chapter 7.02
GENERAL REGULATION AND ADMINISTRATION
Sections:
7.02.010
Short title.
7.02.020
Purpose and intent.
7.02.030
Boundaries and areas of application.
7.02.040
Definitions.
7.02.050
Review of development plan.
7.02.010 Short title.
This title shall be known as the "historic preservation ordinance." (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993:
Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.02.020 Purpose and intent.
It is the intent and purpose of this title to:
A. Effect the protection, enhancement and perpetuation of historic resources, landmarks and districts that
represent or reflect elements of the city's diverse cultural, social, economic, political and architectural history;
B. Safeguard the city's historic heritage, as represented by its historic resources, landmarks and historic
districts;
C. Stabilize and improve property values;
D. Foster civic pride in the character and accomplishments of the past;
E. Protect and enhance the city's attraction to residents, tourists and visitors and servo: to support and
stimulate business and industry;
F. Strengthen the economy of the city;
G. Promote the use of historic districts and landmarks for the education, enjoyment and welfare of the
people of the city. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § l (part), 1992)
7.02.030 Boundaries and areas of application.
This title shall apply to all historic resources, publicly and privately owned, within the corporate limits
of the city. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § I (part), 1992)
7.02.040 Definitions.
Whenever the following words or terms are used in this title they shall have the meaning established by
this section:
A. "Alteration" means any change or modification, through public or private action, of any historic resource
or of any property located within a historic district, including, but not limited to, exterior changes to or modi-
fications of a structure or any of its architectural details or visual characteristics, including; paint color and
surface texture, grading, surface paving, new structures, cutting or removal of trees and other natural features,
disturbances of archaeological sites or areas, and the placement or removal of any objects such as signs, plaques,
light fixtures, street furniture, walls, fences, steps, plantings and landscape accessories affecting the historic
qualities of the property.
B. "Archaeological site" means an area where remains of manor his activities prior to keeping of history
are still evident.
C. "Certificate of appropriateness" means a certificate issued by the city council approving such plans,
specifications, design or statements of work for any proposed alteration, restoration, construction, removal,
relocation or demolition, in whole or in part, of or to any historic resource or to any improvement within a
historic district.
D. "Commission" means the historic preservation commission established by this title.
E. "Contributing structure" means a structure within a designated historic district which has a special
character, special historic or aesthetic interest or value, and is incorporated into the district for that reason.
F. "Exterior architectural feature' means the architectural style, design, general arrangement. components
and natural features and all the outer surfaces of the improvement, including, but not limited to, the kind and
162-1 ��„ tiQg<9a:
9
1 17 1
texture of the building material, the type and style of all windows, doors, lights, signs, walls, fences, and other
fixtures appurtenant to such improvement, and the natural form and appearance of any grade, rock, body of
water, stream, tree, plant, shrub, road, path, walkway, plaza, fountain, sculpture, or other forth of natural or
artificial landscaping.
G. "Historic district" means any area which contains one or more historic resources or landmarks which
has a special character or special historical value, along with other structural, cultural, architectural, archaeological,
agricultural, community or aesthetic value, or which represents one or more architectural periods or styles
typical to the history of the city; that has been designated a historic district pursuant to this title.
H. "Historic resource" means improvements, including, but not necessarily limited to, buildings, landscape,
structures, signs, features, sites, places, areas, or other objects of scientific, aesthetic, educational, cultural,
architectural, agricultural or historic significance to the citizens of the city.
I. "Historic resources inventory" means the historic resources inventory adopted and maintained by council
pursuant to Chapter 7.06 of this title.
J. "Improvement" means any building, structure, place, site, structural work of art, landscape feature,
plant life, life -form, scenic condition, parking facility, fence, gate, wall or other object constituting a physical
betterment of real property, or any part of such betterment.
K. "Landmark" means any property or improvement, manmade or natural, which has special (historic,
cultural, architectural, archaeological, community interest or value as part of the development, heritage or
history of the city, the state of California, or the nation, and that has been designated as a landmark pursuant
to this title.
L. "Ordinary maintenance" means any cleaning, painting, and/or other restoration which does not result
in the alteration of an improvement or landmark.
M. "Paleontological site" means an area where fossilized or otherwise preserved remains of plants or
animals which generally predate man's emergence on the earth are still evident.
N. "Person" means any individual, association, partnership, firm, corporation, public agency, or political
subdivision.
O. "Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation" means the Secretary of the Interior's Standards
for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings by the U.S. Department of the Interior,
or the National Park Service.
P. "Site" means any parcel or portion of real property which has special character or special historic,
cultural, archaeological, architectural, community or aesthetic value. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord.
207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.02.050 Review of development plan.
As part of the environmental review of development projects affecting historic resources, the plan and
application shall be referred to the historic preservation commission for review if a potential impact has been
identified. The commission may recommend that specific environmental studies be done as part of the
environmental review for the project. The commission shall receive notice of all environmental review decisions
on a project potentially affecting any historical resource and may submit written comments to the land use
planning director. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § I (part), 1992)
Ira Quime 4-94) 162-2 090
7.04.010
Chapter 7.04
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Sections:
7.04.010
Creation.
7.04.020
Appointment.
7.04.030
Duties.
7.04.040
Organization, rules and procedures.
7.04.010 Creation.
There is established in the city a historic preservation commission, hereinafter referred to as the "commission,"
consisting of five members appointed by the city council. All members of the commission shall have a demonstrat-
ed interest in and knowledge of historic preservation and the cultural resources of the city. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh.
A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.04.020 Appointment.
A. Three commissioners shall be appointed from among professionals in the disciplines of architecture,
history, architectural history, planning, or other historic preservation -related disciplines, such as urban planning,
American studies, American civilization, cultural geography or cultural anthropology. Two commissioners
shall be lay members who have demonstrated special interest, competence, experience or knowledge in historic
preservation, American studies, cultural anthropology, cultural geography or other historic preservation -related
disciplines.
B. The initial appointment of the members of the commission shall be as follows: two members for three
years and three members for two years. Thereafter, appointments shall be made for a three-year term.
C. A member of the commission may be removed from his or her position by a majority vote of the
city council. A vacancy is filled in the same manner as the original appointment. A person appointed to fill
a vacancy serves for the remainder of the unexpired term.
D. The commission shall fix the time and place of its regular meetings in accordance with State Open
Meeting Law. The commission shall not meet less than once in each three-month period.
E. The commission shall elect a chair and vice chair from among its members. The chair .and vice chair
serve for a term of one year and until the successor of each is elected and takes office. The secretary shall
be the planning and development director or his/her designee.
F. 1. Chair. The chair shall preside at all meetings of the commission. He/she shall appoint each committee
and shall perform the duties necessary or incidental to his/her office.
2. Vice Chair. The vice chair is chair in the absence of the chair or the inability of the chairperson to
act.
3. Secretary. The secretary shall keep minutes of each meeting and shall record the official actions taken.
On all official actions on which a vote is taken, the secretary shall record the vote by roll call, with the chairperson
voting last. The secretary shall certify each official act and/or resolution of the commission. The secretary
shall maintain records of operations and shall perform such other duties as the commission assigns. (Ord.
280 § 1, 1996; Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.04.030 Duties.
A. The commission shall act in an advisory capacity to the city council and planning commission in all
matters relating to the identification, protection, retention, and preservation of historic areas and sites within
the city.
B. It shall be the responsibility of the commission to provide advice to the city council on the following
matters:
1. Criteria for guidelines to be used in a comprehensive historic survey of properties within the city;
2. The designation of historic landmarks or historic districts;
3. Historic sites and areas to be considered for listing on La Quinta's historic resources inventory;
4. The adoption of standards to be used by the commission in reviewing applications for permits to construct,
change, alter, modify, remodel, remove or significantly affect any historic resource;
162-3 (La Quinn 9-96)
L_ 091
7.04.030
5. The purchase of interests in property for purposes of historic preservation;
6. Any other matter which the city council deems necessary to protect historic resources.
C. The commission shall be responsible for:
1. Reviewing the conduct of land use, housing and redevelopment, municipal improvement and other
types of planning and programs undertaken by any agency of the city, the county or state, as they relate to
the historic preservation of the community;
2. Publicizing and periodically updating survey results;
3. Maintaining La Quinta's historic resources inventory;
4. Maintaining a local register of historical areas and sites within the city;
5. Performing any other functions that may be designated by the city council;
6. Investigating and making recommendations to the city council on the use of various federal, state,
local or private funding sources and mechanisms available to promote historic resource preservation in the
city;
7. Approval or disapproval, in whole or in part, or approval with conditions of applications for permits
pursuant to Chapter 7.08 of this title;
8. Reviewing all applications for permits and environmental documents pertaining to local, state or federal
designated or potentially designated historic resources. The planning and development department shell forward
all such documents to the commission for review and comment, prior to review and approval by the planning
commission as appropriate;
9. Reviewing the actions and proposed actions and advising on environmental review processes of all
city departments and public agencies concerning the effects of their actions, programs, capital improvements,
or activities on designated and potential historic resources within the city;
10. Considering whether denial of certificates of appropriateness (permits) affecting cultural resources
results in economic hardship to the property owner according to the procedures outlined in Chapter 7.08;
11. Cooperating with local, county, state and federal governments in the pursuit of the objectives of historic
resource preservation;
12. Assuming whatever responsibilities and duties may be assigned to it by the state under the certified
local government provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended;
13. Providing opportunities for direct public participation in all responsibilities delegated to the certified
local government, including the survey and National Register nomination process. Commission meetings shall
be open to the public with published agendas and minutes in accordance with the California Open Meeting
Act. The published agenda shall be mailed in advance of meetings to individuals and citizen organizations
interested in the commission's activities;
14. Rendering advice and guidance, upon the request of the property owner or occupant, on the restoration,
alteration, decoration, landscaping or maintenance of any historic resource, including landmarks, landmark
sites, historic districts or neighboring properties within public view;
15. Rendering advice and guidance to property owners or occupants on procedures for inclusion of a historic
resource on the National Register of Historic Places, and encouraging such inclusions;
16. Participate in, promote and conduct public information, educational and interpretive programs pertaining
to historic resource preservation;
17. Undertaking any other action or activity necessary or appropriate to the implementation of its power
or duties to fulfill the objectives of historic resource preservation. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord.
207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.04.040 Organization, rules and procedures.
The historic preservation commission shall establish such rules, regulations and procedures as are consistent
with this chapter for the transaction of business, and shall keep a public record of its resolutions, transactions,
findings and determinations.
A. A quorum of the commission shall be defined as three voting members.
B. The commission shall develop and adopt its own operating rules and bylaws, thereafter having the
power and authority to perform all of the duties hereinafter enumerated and provided. The operating rules
and bylaws are to be approved by the city council.
()a Quin 9-96) 162-4 092
C. Keep minutes and records of all meetings and proceedings, including voting records, attendance, resolutions,
findings, determinations and decisions. All such material shall be matters of public record. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh.
A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § l (part), 1992)
162-5 (L� Q.m 494)
093
7.06.010
Chapter 7.06
HISTORIC RESOURCES, HISTORIC LANDMARKS AND
HISTORIC DISTRICTS
Sections:
7.06.010
Establishment of historic resources inventory.
7.06.020
Criteria for historic resources inventory.
7.06.030
Landmark designation procedures.
7.06.040
Historic district designation procedures.
7.06.010 Establishment of historic resources inventory.
The city council shall establish and maintain a historic resources inventory according to the requirements
of the State Historic Preservation Office. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part). 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.06.020 Criteria for historic resources inventory.
A historic resource may be considered for inclusion in the historic resource inventory based on one or
more of the following:
A. It exemplifies or reflects special elements of the city's cultural, social, economic, political, aesthetic,
engineering or architectural history; or
B. It is identified with persons or events significant in local, state or national history; or
C. It embodies distinctive characteristics of a style, type, period or method of construction. is a valuable
example of the use of indigenous materials or craftsmanship or is representative of a notable work of an acclaimed
builder, designer or architect; or
D. It is an archaeological, paleontological, botanical, geological, topographical, ecological or geographical
site which has the *potential of yielding information of scientific value; or
E. It is a geographically definable area possessing concentration of site, buildings, structures, improvements
or objects linked historically through location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and/or association,
in which the collective value of the improvements may be greater than the value of each individual improvement.
(Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.06.030 Landmark designation procedures.
Landmarks shall be established by the city council in the following manner:
A. Any person may request the designation of an improvement as a landmark by submitting a written
request for such designation to the historical preservation commission. The historical preservation commission,
planning commission, or city council may also initiate such proceedings by motion.
B. Any such request shall be filed with the planning and development department upon prescribed forms
and shall include the following data:
1. Name and address of property owner and assessor's parcel number and address of site;
2. Description of the proposed landmark, including special aesthetic, cultural, architectural or engineering
interest or value of a historic nature, including information about the architecture, notable features, construction
and other information indicating the historical significance of the site;
3. Sketches, photographs or drawings;
4. Statement of condition of the improvement:
5. Explanation of any known threats to the improvement of the site;
6. Additional information:
a. Site plan in appropriate scale,
b. Legal description of the property,
c. Photographs, old and recent,
d. Proposed use,
e. Existing zoning,
f. Bibliography and references,
g. Chain of title, if available.
eta Q.�.M a94) 162-6 091
7.06.030
C. Within forty-five days of the date of the request, the commission shall hold a public hearing to review
the landmark application according to the criteria of Section 7.06.020.
D. Notice of the public hearing shall be published in a paper of local circulation at least ten days prior
to the hearing date. In addition, notice of the date, place, time and purpose of the hearing shall be mailed,
return receipt requested, to the owner of the proposed landmark property as shown on the last equalized assessment
role at least fourteen days prior to the date of the public hearing. Failure to send notice by mail to any property
owner when the address of such owner is not on the latest equalized assessment role shall not invalidate any
proceedings in connection with the proposed designation.
E. A notice of the request for designation as a landmark shall be forwarded to the building and safety
department and no building or demolition permits for any alteration to any exterior architectural features of
the proposed landmark shall be issued while the matter is pending final decision.
F. After the public hearing, the commission shall, by resolution, make a report and recommendation to
the city council. If the commission determines that the improvement does not meet landmark criteria, the process
shall terminate and the commission shall notify the property owner and applicant of such termination in writing
within ten days of the commission's determination. If the commission determines that the historical resource
warrants landmark designation and the property owner has consented to same in writing, then the commission
shall submit a written recommendation to the city council incorporating its reasons in support of the proposed
landmark designation. Without the property owner's consent to the proposed designation, the proposal shall
terminate.
G. The city council shall hold a public hearing on the proposed historic landmark designation within
thirty days of the receipt of the recommendation from the commission.
H. At the conclusion of the public hearing on the proposed designation, the city council shall, by resolution,
designate, conditionally designate, or disapprove the designation of the landmark. Written notice of the city
council action shall be mailed to the property owner. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part),
1992)
7.06.040 Historic district designation procedures.
Historic districts shall be established by the city council in the following manner:
A. The procedures for designating a historic district shall be the same as for designating a landmark,
except as otherwise provided in this section.
B. Any application for designation of a historic district shall be filed with the planning and development
department upon the prescribed form and shall include the following data:
1. Boundaries of the proposed district and a list of names and addresses of property owners, assessor's
parcel numbers and addresses of properties within the boundaries;
2. Description of the proposed historic district, including special aesthetic, cultural, architectural or engineering
interest or value of a historical nature;
3. Sketches, photographs or drawings;
4. Statement of condition of structures and improvements within the district;
5. Explanation of any known threats to any historic resource within the district;
6. Other information requested by the planning and development department.
C. If written consent of two-thirds of the owners of property within the proposed district to the proposed
designation is not obtained at the time of the historic preservation commission hearing, the process shall terminate
and the commission shall notify the property owners and applicant of the termination within fourteen days
of the commission's determination.
D. If the commission determines that the area warrants historic district designation, it shall submit a written
recommendation to the city council incorporating its reasons in support of the proposed district designation,
within thirty days of its decision. Such recommendation shall include a report containing the following information:
1. A map showing the proposed boundaries of the historic district and identifying all structures within
the boundaries, contributing or noncontributing;
2. An explanation of the significance of the proposed district and description of the cultural resources
within the proposed boundaries;
3. Recommendations as to appropriate permitted uses, special uses, height and area regulations, minimum
dwelling size, floor area, sign regulations, parking regulations and any other modification to existing development
standards necessary or appropriate to the preservation of the proposed historic district;
162-7 (LA Qui,v 4 94)
095
4. Proposed design guidelines for applying the criteria for review of certificates of appropriateness to
the nominated historic district. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § I (part), 1992)
'" 096
([.a Qom �94) 162-8
7.08.010
Chapter 7.08
PERMITS AND PERMIT PROCEDURES
Sections:
7.08.010
Permits to work on historic resources, landmark or historic district.
7.08.020
Permit procedure.
7.08.030
Permit criteria.
7.08.040
Duty to keep in good repair.
7.08.050
Existing improvements.
7.08.010 Permits to work on historic resources, landmark or historic district.
A. It is unlawful for any person to tear down, demolish, construct, alter, remove or relocate any improvement
or any portion thereof which has been designated a historic landmark pursuant to the provisions of this chapter,
or which lies within a historic district, or to alter in any manner any feature of such a designated landmark,
landmark site or improvement within a historic district without first obtaining a permit in the manner provided
in this chapter.
B. No board, department or commission shall grant any permit to carry out such work on a designated
landmark, landmark site or within a historic district, unless a permit has previously been issued by the city
council as provided in this chapter. No application for a building permit, demolition permit, grading permit,
redevelopment permit, conditional use permit, variance, development plan, zone change, tentative parcel or
subdivision maps, or any other permit which would allow the addition of a designated landmark, landmark
site or any improvement in a historical district, shall be deemed complete unless a permit has previously been
issued pursuant to this chapter.
C. No permit shall be necessary for ordinary maintenance and repair if the proposed work will not alter
or change the style, color, design, features or character of the landmark site or improvement and a permit
is not required under Section 301(b) of the Uniform Building Code, nor does this chapter prevent the construction,
reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition or removal of any such improvement when the building and
safety department certifies to the council that such action is required for the public safety due to an unsafe
or dangerous condition which cannot be rectified through the use of the State Historical Building Code. (Ord.
238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.08.020 Permit procedure.
A. An application for a permit to do work in a historic district or on a designated landmark shall be submitted
to the planning and development department on forms provided by the planning and development director.
This application must include the plans and specifications for the proposed work. Within thirty days of the
receipt of the complete application the commission shall review the application and shall make a written report
to the city council. The city council shall hold a public hearing on the application within thirty days of receipt
of the commission's report. Notice of the public hearing shall be given as provided in Section 9.164.040 of
this code.
B. At the conclusion of the public hearing on the permit application, the city council shall, by resolution,
issue or deny, in whole or in part, any permit application. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part). 1993: Ord. 207 §
l (part), 1992)
7.08.030 Permit criteria.
The city council shall issue a permit for the proposed work if, and only if, it determines:
A. In the case of a designated historical site, that the proposed work would not detrimentally alter, destroy
or adversely affect any architectural or landscape improvement;
B. If the owner of a designated historical site or landmark demonstrates to the city council that such
property cannot be economically used and denial of a permit would deprive the owner of all or most of his
or her economic interest in the property, the council may issue the permit with an effective date one hundred
eighty days from the date of issuance of the permit to allow time for the investigation of alternatives to the
work proposed in the permit application, such as acquisition of site or improvement by the city or a public
interest group;
162-9 )v Qui.o o-94)
097
7.08.030
C. In the case of construction of a new improvement, upon a historic site, that the exterior of such
improvement will not adversely affect and will be compatible with the external appearance of existing historically
designated improvements in said site;
D. That the applicant has presented clear and convincing evidence of facts demonstrating to the satisfaction
of the city council that such disapproval will impose immediate and substantial hardship on the applicant because
of conditions peculiar to the person seeking to carry out the proposed work, whether this be property owner,
tenant or resident, or because of conditions peculiar to the particular improvement, or other feature involved,
and that approval of the application will be consistent with the purposes of this chapter. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh.
A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § l (part), 1992)
7.08.040 Duty to keep in good repair.
The owner, occupant or other person legally responsible for a landmark or historic district shall keep in
good repair all portions of such landmark, district or historic site when subject to control as specified in the
designating ordinance or permit and all interior portions and appurtenances thereof whose maintenance is necessary
to prevent deterioration and decay of the historic resource. It shall be the duty of the building and safety director
or designee to enforce this section. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
7.0&050 Existing improvements.
All repairs, alterations, reconstructions, restorations or changes in use of existing improvements shall conform
to the requirements of the State Historical Building Code. (Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 §
l (part), 1992)
O98
(c, Q�inu a94) 162-10
7.10.010
M
\i J
Chapter 7.10
ENFORCEMENT —PENALTIES
Sections:
7.10.010 Enforcement.
7.10.020 Restitution.
7.10.010 Enforcement.
A. Whenever any alteration, demolition, relocation, construction, or grading of any site is being done
contrary to the provisions of this title, the building and safety director or designee may order the action stopped
by notice in writing served on any person or persons engaged in the doing or causing of such action, and
any such person or persons shall forthwith stop such activity until authorized by the building and safety director
or designee to proceed.
B. It is unlawful for any person to cant' out any work on any improvement or site in violation of a notice
stopping such work.
C. Any violation of the provisions of this title shall constitute a public nuisance. (Oral. 238 § 2 (Exh.
A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § l (part), 1992)
7.10.020 Restitution.
Upon damage, destruction or removal of a historic resource, designated landmark or historic district without
permit, the preservation commission shall review the action and make recommendation for restitution commensurate
with damage inflicted, specifically assessing the historic, as well as economic, value of the resource destroyed.
(Ord. 238 § 2 (Exh. A) (part), 1993: Ord. 207 § 1 (part), 1992)
162-11
... ti 99 aJ Q=u 494)
DRAFT
CITY OF LA QUINTA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
MARCH 14, 1996
1. STATEMENT OF GOALS
Historic Preservation Mission. -
La Quinta and its citizens seek to identify, protect, and preserve the community's historic and
archaeological resources in order to enhance the quality of life and economic well-being of current and
future generations.
Goals.
The General Plan for the City of La Quinta contains one preservation goal, "Historic, archaeological and
culturally significant sites, structures and programs preserved, perpetuated and integrated within the fabric
of the City." This primary goal is followed by the following objective and policies:
Objective 6-2.1
The City shall utilize a variety of alternative means to identify, preserve, and integrate historic and
archaeological significant sites and structures.
Policy 6.2.1.1
The City shall establish and maintain contact with appropriate historic and archaeological societies and
Native American concerns, including the Eastern Information Center at the University of California,
Riverside, the Ague Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Coachella Malley Archaeological Society, the La
Quinta Historical Society and/or the Riverside County Parks History Division to confirm the identification
and location of historic and archaeologically significant sites and structures and to facilitate compliance
with CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act), NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) and NHPA
(National Historic Preservation Act)•
Policy 6-2.1.2
The City shall require development applications to be reviewed by a qualified archaeologist and/or historian,
as appropriate, prior to final approval to identify any project -related impacts to historical and/or
archaeological resources.
Policy 6-2.1.3
Appropriate mitigation measures to protect historic and archaeological resources shall be required where
necessary. Where appropriate, portions of proposed projects shall be designated as Open Space and
delineated as such on the Conservation Policy Diagram and the Open Space Policy Diagram in the Open
Space Element.
Policy 6.2.1.4
The City shall incorporate historic and archaeological resources into open space areas, including park
facilities, where possible.
2
•.. 101
Policy 6.2.1.5
The City shall designate as potential historic landmarks the historic structures identified in the Existing
Setting Section of the Environmental Conservation Element. The City shall facilitate preservation of such
landmarks through the use of historic preservation ordinances, density transfers, incorporation within
parks and other alternative means.
The City of La Quinta has an adopted Historic Preservation Ordinance in place, the most current amended
version adopted by the City Council on Oecember 7, 1993. The Purpose and Intent section of the
ordinance states the following as goals of the City:
(A) Effect the protection, enhancement, and perpetuation of historic resources, landmarks, and districts
that represent or reflect elements of the City's diverse cultural, social, economic, political, and
architectural history;
(B) Safeguard the City's historic heritage, as represented by its historic resources, landmarks, and historic
districts:
(C) Stabilize and improve property values;
(0) Foster civic pride in the character and accomplishments of the past;
(E) Protect and enhance the City's attraction to residents, tourists, and visitors and serve to support and
stimulate business and industry;
(F) Strengthen the economy of the City;
(G) Promote the use of historic districts and landmarks for the education, enjoyment and welfare of the
people of the City.
Additional goals of the Preservation Plan include the following:
Goal 1: Identify historic resources significant to La Quinta's past.
Goal2.• Make protection of historic and archaeological resources a municipal policy and implement this
policy through effective and efficient legislation and regulatory measures.
Goal 3: Establish economic incentives to encourage the preservation of historic buildings and
neighborhoods.
Goal4. Provide the technical assistance necessary to preserve and improve historic properties.
3
102
Goal 5.- Heighten public awareness of historic preservation in the community and improve preservation
education efforts for various audiences.
Goa/ 6.• Maintain and strengthen preservation partnerships between municipal government, state
government, and federal agencies.
Goa/ 7.- Maintain and strengthen support for historic preservation from individuals, not -for -profit
preservation groups, neighborhood organizations, and downtown interests.
Goa/ 6: Establish and support heritage tourism efforts appropriate to La Quinta's historic resources and
community needs.
Goal 9.• Conduct regular review and evaluation of historic preservation initiatives by the historic
preservation community.
Goa/ 10.- Adopt strategies to conserve historic neighborhoods which reflect their organic development,
historical roles and traditions, modern needs, and economic health and stability.
2. DEFINITION OF HISTORIC CHARACTER
The City of La Quinta is located in eastern Riverside County, in the Coachella Valley. La Quinta is situated
in a desert cove area where there is a lengthy prehistoric and historic record. During the late prehistoric
period, the area that is now the City was the site of Cahuilla Indian camps and villages. Artifacts from the
prehistoric and protohistoric period frequently are found in the area. As recent development has come to La
Quinta, important archaeological deposits have been unearthed. During the early historic period, white man
settled the area as homesteaders, farmers, and investors. Agriculture became the primary industry for the
area.
The La Quinta Hotel was built in 1926 as a resort for the wealthy and famous. The hotel and its environs
encouraged developers to create a planned community development in the 1930's with the first subdivision
in the Cove area offering small single family homes on 5,000 square foot lots. The project included a club,
known as the Desert Club (demolished in 1988), and commercial businesses located in a central village. The
development was patterned after the Peter Pan Woodland Club located in Big Bear, California. The idea
being that the two developments would honor each others memberships to provide seasonal havens for the
socialites of the time. By 1948, there had been 90 building permits issued by the County of Riverside for
the subdivision. The death of the developer and World War II all but stopped further building activity in the
subdivision.
La Quinta remained sparsely developed until the 1970's, when developers and the public realized that La
Quinta offered affordable housing opportunities for working class people and luxurious home sites for the
4
• 103
affluent. In 1982, La Quinta incorporated as a city government and has experienced continual growth in
both residential and commercial development.
The historic contextual themes of La Quinta include the prehistoric through early settlement, the resort
industry, and the Village and Cove development. The Community Development Department has prepared a
Historic Context Statement for the City which identifies these three context themes and provides criteria
for determining significance for each.
3. SUMMARY OF PAST AND CURRENT PRESERVATION EFFORTS
The preservation efforts in La Quinta are relatively recent. In May of 1991, the City Council established
the first Historic Preservation Commission and Ordinance. This Commission also served as the Planning
Commission and was composed of members with little or no background in historic preservation. in
December of 1993, the City Council recognized the importance of having a duly qualified preservation
commission that met the requirements of the Certified Local Government (CLG) Program administered by
the State Office of Historic Preservation. In so doing, the City Council amended the Historic Preservation
Ordinance in order to require that a qualified Historic Preservation Commission be created. A call for
application for qualified Historic Preservation commissioners was made in January, 1994, and again in May
of 1994, in order to seek qualified applicants to the Commission. On June 17, 1994, the nevv Historic
Preservation Commission was appointed by the La Quinta City council. The Commission is composed of
three professionally qualified members and two lay members who have a demonstrated interest in historic
preservation. In April, 1995, La Quinta became a Certified Local Government through the Certified Local
Government Program administered by the National Park Service and the State Historic Preservation Office.
The preservation program in the City of La Quinta is in an inaugural stage. It has been recognized that
preservation of prehistoric and historic resources is important, and can benefit the City and its residents.
The Historic Preservation Ordinance (Ordinance 238) was amended in December, 1993, in order to meet
the requirements of the State Historic Preservation Office. The commission will hold public meetings at
least on a quarterly basis. Study sessions, workshops, and special meetings can be scheduled as needed,
with proper notice.
The City's efforts to preserve the community's character have been guided by the goal, objective, and
policies contained in the Open Space Element of the La Quinta General Plan, by the Village Master Plan, and
by the Historic Preservation Ordinance. Project•specific review and conditions of approval have been the
practical application of these above mentioned documents.
Currently, the City is working toward the award of a CLG preservation grant to survey and evaluate the
known historic resources and to provide a detailed sensitivity map of prehistoric and historic archaeological
sites. A Historic Context Statement has just been completed as part of the survey effort. This preservation
plan was prepared as a requirement of the CLG grant program. Future activities include the preparation of
a Historic Preservation Element for the City's General Plan.
5
104
4. HISTORIC RESOURCES SURVEY
The City of La Quinta has not yet conducted a survey of historic and archaeological resources in the
community. Staff of the Community Development Department has prepared a CLG grant proposaV to fund
such a survey. The locations of historic structures in the City are well known which will enable the future
survey to focus on recordation and evaluation rather than initial location and identification. A Context
Statement recently prepared by City staff has identified three main historical themes in La Quinta. The
Context Statement provides significance criteria for each of the themes. The future survey will then
categorize historic structures and archaeological sites according to the Context Statement.
Once the survey is completed the data will be encoded in the City's Geographic Information System (GIS)
and used as a planning tool for future preservation considerations. Once the survey has been completed,
the results can be attached to this Preservation Plan.
5. EXPLANATION OF THE LEGAL BASIS FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION
The legal basis for this Preservation Plan includes the adopted Historical Preservation Ordinance (Ordinance
No 238) creating Title 7 of the La Quinta Municipal Code. This ordinance was amended and adopted on
December 7, 1993. The ordinance creates a Historic Preservation Commission with specific duties and
responsibilities. The Commission's duties consist of serving as a advisory body to the City Council and
Planning Commission in all matters relating to the identification, protection, retention, and preservation of
historic areas and sites within the City. The Commission is responsible for reviewing planning projects as
they relate to the historic preservation of the community; publicizing and periodically updating survey
results; maintaining a historic resources inventory and register; cooperating with local, County, State, and
Federal agencies in the pursuit of the objectives of historic preservation; assuming whatever responsibilities
and duties may be assigned to it by the State under the Certified Local Government Provision of the
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended, and providing opportunities for public participation
and education on local historic resources among other responsibilities.
The Open Space Element and the Conservation Element of the City's General Plan provides for the
consideration and preservation of historic and archaeological resources. The development of a general plan
is a requirement of state law, and consideration of cultural resources is a requirement.
Other legal basis for implementation of the preservation program in La Quinta is compliance with Appendix
K of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) of 1970, as amended. This law requires
environmental review of certain development projects and this review includes historic and archaeological
resources.
Future activities include exercising an option provided by the State of California for local jurisdictions to
create a Historic Preservation Element. The element will provide a compilation of existing goals and policies
and a detailed implementation program for preservation in the City.
6
_.., 10
6. COORDINATING PRESERVATION WITH ZONING, LAND USE, AND GROWTH MANAGEMENT
The City of La Quinta has a stand alone preservation ordinance - Ordinance 238, which is found as Title 7
of the La Quinta Municipal Code. The relationship between preservation and zoning is minimal as Ordinance
238 is not a part of the City's Zoning Ordinance. There are no existing historic zoning districts or historic
overlay districts in the City. After the comprehensive survey is completed, it may he possible to create
special zoning districts if it can be justified.
The role of the Historic Preservation Commission in land -use, transportation, and public works decisions is
defined as - an advisory capacity to the Planning Commission and the City Council in all matters relating to
the identification, protection, retention, and preservation of historic areas and sites. In this advisory role,
the Historic Preservation Commission reviews the conduct of land use, housing and redevelopment,
municipal improvement and other types of planning and programs undertaken by any agency of the City.
The City may use Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) in order to achieve preservation goals, as
permitted in the La Quinta General Plan. TDRs can be an effective planning tool for redirecting development
away from the sites of historic buildings and archaeological sites. The Environmental Conservation
Element in the City's General Plan contains Policy 6-2.1.5 which states that "The City shall designate as
potential historic landmarks the historic structures identified in the Existing Setting Section of the
Environmental Conservation Element. The City shall facilitate preservation of such landmarks through the
use of historic preservation ordinances, density transfers, incorporation within parks and other alternative
means."
7. DEFINING PUBLIC -SECTOR RESPONSIBILITIES
Municipal governments frequently own some of the most important historic resources in a community. At
present, the City does not own any historic structures. If historic structures or sites are acquired by the
City or the City's Redevelopment Agency, then the City must recognize that it assumes the role of
responsible steward for such structures over which it has direct control. The City of La Quinta is
responsible far many infrastructure improvements, including road repair and replacement, sidewalk
improvements, and street lighting. Decisions regarding the maintenance and disposition of City owned
property and infrastructure improvements may have substantial impacts on local historic resources,
especially if a property is itself historic.
8. INCENTIVES FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION
A preservation program is not complete without incentives to promote the protection of historic and
archaeological resources. Incentives should be included in a preservation program to help offset additional
expenditures that may be necessary to comply with a historic preservation ordinance, to serve as a
catalyst for neighborhood revitalization and conservation, and finally, to offset economic hardships that
might arise in a taking.
7
r� 106
Currently, the City of La Quinta does not have a program of direct subsidies or tax credits available,
however, density credits in the form of Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) and the application of the
State Historic Building Code are the two existing incentive strategies.
Future incentive strategies that should be considered by the City include: property tax abatement, property
tax freeze, property tax credits, tax-exempt bond financing, mortgage guarantees or credit enhancement,
tax increment financing, relief from focal sales taxes, local government acquisition and subsequent write-
down of sale of historic resources for rehabilitation, direct loans or grants, and relief from zoning and
building code regulations.
9. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PRESERVATION AND EDUCATION
An important part of the Preservation Plan is the inclusion of public education on preservation issues and
policies. The month of May is proclaimed La Quinta Heritage Month by the City Council, in conjunction with
the National Preservation Week and the State Archaeology Week. An annual awards program held during
La Quinta Heritage Month provides recognition for groups, individuals, and developers who have
contributed in some way toward preservation efforts in the City.
Emphasis on education is found in the Historic Preservation Ordinance which states in the section on
Purposes and Intent that "(D) Foster pride in the character and accomplishments of the past"; and "(G)
Promote the use of historic districts and landmarks far the education, enjoyment, and welfare of the people
of the City". One of the responsibilities of the Historic Preservation Commission is to "Participate in,
promote, and conduct public information, educational, and interpretive programs pertaining to historic
resource preservation." Presently, there are no formal educational programs developed for public
presentation. However, it is the intent of the City through the Historic Preservation Ordinance to take
advantage of the opportunity to educate the public whenever possible. Additional strategies to consider
include developing a speaker's bureau, using local preservation experts to visit schools, clubs, and other
forums to promote preservation. Another approach might be to develop a curriculum to teach the teachers
about La Quinta's historic and archaeological resources so that the curriculum could be implemented in the
classroom.
10. AN AGENDA FOR FUTURE ACTION
An agenda for future action provides a time frame and an action plan for implementation of the goals and
strategies included in the plan. The agenda will help set priorities for implementation of the plan. The
agenda also allows for periodic review by the Historic preservation Commission to determine progress in
meeting particular goals and an opportunities to revised strategies, if needed.
The Action Strategy for the City of La Quinta will enable the community to measure its progress towards
its preservation goals. The format for the Action Strategy includes goals, actions, first steps, time frame,
and the participants for implementing the plan. The time frames include "immediate and ongoing," "short
term," and "long term." The participants that are identified to take the actions specified include
8
107
government staff and elected representatives and agencies, private not -for -profit organizations, municipal
unions, private institutions, and neighborhood organizations.
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CORRESPONDENCE
AND
WRITTEN MA TERIAL
112
NaEenal Tmat for Historic Preservation Fax 688E 8 Voice_ 402688629E To: Leslie Mouriquard ae NAPC Page l of:? SaWrday, Fpol 0E, 1998119:n AM
National Trust for Historic Preservation
1785 Massachusetts Avenue, N-W
nl Washington, DC 20036-2117
(202) c88-6000 / FAX (202) 588-6038 / Inteniet A✓ Vw,nafoiaaltiust.org
MOUSE AND SENATE PASS SURFACE
TRANSPORTATION BILLS'.',
DIFFERENT VERSIONS OF ISTEA RENEWAL TO BE RESOLVED
BY CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
VITAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION CONCERNS IN QUESTION
Both the Senate and the House of Representatives have now approved six -year renewals of the
Intennodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), the national surface
transportation ]am. The two bills contain numerous differences which must be ironed out in a
conference committee before a measure can be sent to President Clinton.
To be resolved are differences in overall spending levels for the six years, the mix of spending
for highways and public transit, specific projects added by House members, transportation policy
priorities, and how the nearly 40% more spending for transportation will affect all the other spending
priorities.
The Surface Transportation Policy Project reports that of the 25 core recornrnendations
contained in its Blueprint for ISTEA Reauthorization, 22 are either entirely or sigiliticantly addressed
in one of the two bills. Planning and public participation requirements, a policy emphasis on system
preservation versus new construction, a scenic byways program, and more decision -making power for
local-Ovcnunents are among the progressive elements preserved in both bills.
There are four items of very specific concern to the lustoric preservation cormnunity which we
must work hard to have included in the conference agreement. In each case we are supporting the
Senate provisions and urging that they be included in the final version.
1. The Senate enhancements provisions are superior to the House's, because the
Senate version does not provide for partial transferability of enhancements funds to
other activities, like road building. The enhancements ethic is not yet fully supported
in all of the states, and historic preservation needs six more years of a dedicated
minimum allocation for the enhancements program.
2. The Senate bill makes changes in the Historic Bridge Program that will promote
much greater preservation and adaptive reuse of historic bridges by permitting
historic bridge funds to be supplemented by enhancements fiords. It's a cornmon sense
change that should be in the final version.
3. The Senate bill contains a new program that will assist states in preserving the
Nation's historic covered bridges.
The Trmtonal Tru.slfor-Hisloric Pre.senaftonprovides teadershlp, education, midadoococvm sm•e A,,ni 's dn,rse historicpluses
and revitafize oltr communities.
04-03-98 22:18 RECEIVED FROM: P.01
113
Netiernl Tmet far Histsne Preserr al Fexc202568b0.98 Voice: 282d"N4 To: Leslie Mourlquend et. NAPC Pee, 2 of 2 SZWPdey, A,ni U, 1981:21:26 AM
4. The Senate's planting provisions dealing with local government consultation clearly
state that it should take place with local elected officials. The House leaves out the
word "elected," and we strongly feel that elected officials at the local level are the best
ones to represent the views of the citizenry, including the historic preservation
community.
ACTION NEEDED
The ISTEA conferees will be the members of the Senate Environment and Public Works
Committee and the 18 members of the House Transportation and hifrastructure Committee (see
rosters below). Please contact these Representatives and Senators and urge them to support: our
priority items for the conference agreement. You may want to ask your legislators who do not serve
on these committees to help out by urging their colleagues who do to support progressive surface
transportation legislation and the priorities of the historic preservation community.
Congress will not be back in session in Washington until April 21 st. This presents an
excellent opportunity to find your Representative and Senators at home in their district offices. 'Those
offices and their numbers are listed in your area phone books under U. S. Government.
We have been working together on ISTEA for nearly 18 months, and we have been vent
successful to date. We are really trying to cement our progress with this last round of contacts. Thank
your legislators for all the help they have given you on transportation issues in the past and ask for
their support on the above points.
ISTEA CONFERENCE COMMITTEE MEMBERS
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
Bud Shuster (R-PA) - Chairman; Don Young (R-AIL); Thomas Petri (R-WI); Sherwood
Boehlert (R-NY); Jay Kim (R-CA); Steve Horn (R-CA); Tillie Fowler (R-FL): Richard
Baker (R-LA); Robert Ney (R-OH); Jack Metcalf (R-WA); James Oberstar (D-MN),
Ranking Mbr.; Nick Rahall (D-WV); Robert Borski (D-PA); William Lipinski (D-IL); Bob
Wise (D-WV); James Clyburn (D-SC); Bob Filner (D-CA); and Jim McGovern (D-MA).
Senate Enviromuent and Public Woks Couunittee
John H. Chafee (R-RI) - Chairman; John W. Warner (R-VA); Robert C. Smith (R-NH); Dirk
Kempthorne (R-ID); James M. Inhofe (R-OK) Craig ,Thomas (R-WY); Christopher S. Bond
(R-MO); Tim Hutchinson (R-AR); Wayne Allard (R-CO); Jeff Sessions (R-AL); Max Baucus
(D-MT) - Ranking Mbr.; Daniel P. Moynihan (D-NY); Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ); Harry
Reid (D-NV); Bob Graham (D-FL); Joe Lieberman (D-CT); Barbara Boxer (D-CA); Ron
Wyden (D-OR).
- April 3, 1995
79ve Natioral Ti Flrtoric Preservation Provides leadersfiip education, and advocacy to mve America's verse htrloric pLeces
and revitafire om commmfitles.
04-03-98 22 a 20 RECEIVED FROM: 1 114P . 92
NWenelTmst for Hizene Preservation Fax 202688i 8 Voice: 202S88E654 To: Leslie Mounquand at W n Page t ef4 Wedne'.scho, June 10, 19985:58:47 AM
National Trust for Historic Preservation
1785 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
111 Washmgton, DC 20036-21 t 7
(202) 588-6000 / FAX (202) 588-6038 /hitenset. av aro .nationahssistorg
CONGRESS PASSES NEW TRANSPORTATION
REAUTHORIZATION BILL!!!
Major Victory for Enhancements Program Funding, Spending Formulas and
Historic Bridge Program!!
House and Senate conferees reached an agreement on a bill (H.R. 2400) to reauthorize the
nation's surface transportation programs on May 22nd. The conference report (H. Rpt. 105-550) was
passed by the House and Senate the same day and the bill -- renamed "The Transportation Equity Act
for the 21 st Century" (TEA-21) -- is on the President's desk awaiting the arrival of a companion
technical corrections measure (H.R. 3978). The President has until June 9th to sign the bill, with or
without the accompanying corrections bill.
Funding Levels and Spending Formulas for Enhancements
According to figures compiled by the Rails -to -Trails Conservancy (RTC) and the
Transportation Enhancements Clearinghouse, spending for transportation enhancements will average
$630 million per year for the six -year authorization (from $618 million in 1998 to $639 million in
2003), for a total of $3.8 billion -- an approximate 40% increase over enhancements spending under
the first ISTEX The Rails -to -Trails Conservancy expresses confidence in these numbers, but cautions
that they are preliminary in nature and could be subject to change.
Enhancement spending remains ten percent of each state's Surface Transportation Program.
Since TEA-21 contains major distribution formula changes and other program adjustments
that will affect the totals each state will receive, trot every state will have dramatic increases in
enhancements allocations. A few states actually will receive much less than they had received
under the old ISTEA. Please consult the attached chart for the RTC estimates for your state.
The conference report also contains a modified version of the House proposal to permit states
to transfer a portion of their enhancements allocation to road building. The transfer percentage was
reduced from 50% to 25% and the calculations of what can be transferred were changed to our
material benefit. You will see from the attached RTC chart that enhancement funds eligible for
transfer are not significant for most states.
New Eligible Activities, Programs slid Standards
The conferees agreed to four additions to the enhancements eligible activities list:
(1) safety and education programs for pedestrians and bicyclists; (2) wildlife habitat connectivity to
reduce vehicle -caused wildlife mortality; (3) transportation museums; and (4) tourist and welcome
centers which have a clear lint: to scenic or historic sites.
The conferees also approved a new Transit Enhancements Program which requires 'transit
agencies in urbanized areas with populations of 200,000 or more to set aside one percent of their
The Nfimial Trudfor NsloricA'esemmionprovides leoder.shfp educmion. midadvoca io save dnrrlca's diverse hialorfeplres
and w0aLe our communities.
06-10-98 63: 04 RECEIVED FROM: e•, .�JP.01
15
Natonal Trust for Historic Preservation Fa:202600603e Voice 2026668266 To:L,,ho14ourique,d a NFPC Page204 Wednesday, June 10, 1g0860041 AM
urban formula funds for the following activities: historic preservation; rehabilitation and operation of
historic mass transit buildings and facilities; bus shelters; landscaping and beautification; public art;
pedestrian and bicycle access; transit connections to parks; signage; and enhanced transit access for
persons with disabilities. Estimates are that this set -aside will generate $30 million nationally each
year for these activities.
The changes the National Trust proposed for the Historic Bridge Program (which will lead to
saving more historic bridges) and Senator Jeffords' new program for historic covered bridges were
approved by the conferees, but were inadvertently left out of the printed conference report. We have
been assured that both bridge items will be in the technical corrections bill that Congress is expected to
approve on June 5111.
In addition, Federal Highway Administration policy and the House -passed version of the
transportation reauthorization bill specified that transportation enlianeements activities must have a
"direct link to transportation;" however, the conferees rewrote the provision to say that enhancements
projects must have "a relationship to transportation- -- a less restrictive and much preferred standard.
Outlook for Intermodal Transportation Under TEA-21
The impact of TEA-21 on intermodal surface transportation programs will be determined by
how effectively surface transportation funds are spent in the states. State and local planning, state
department oftransportation reforms, better local government controls, strengthened citizen
involvement, public education, and grassroots advocacy will be major factors in strengthening
intermodal forms of transportation under TEA-21. These activities are already underway with
increasing intensity around the country largely as a result of the impetus provided by the 1991 1:STEA
legislation.
TEA-21 improves on the 1991 ISTEA statute by providing more overall funding. Early
analysis of TEA-21 suggests that not only will absolute dollars for comin unity and environmental
programs increase substantially, but their share of total funding will also rise. A lack of detail in the
news media coverage surrounding the provisions of TEA-21 initially created a false impression that
the bill's six -year, $170 billion authorization was dedicated solely for new highway construction.
However, TEA- 21 contains the lowest mandated spending on nev? highwa.), construction ever and,
according to the Surface Transportation Policy Project, the only category of spending prcjeeted to
decrease as a share of the bill's total is new highway capacity!
The new legislation provides the opportunity for expanded diversity and flexibility in spending
for intermodal forms of transportation. The bill's highway title contains funding for air quality
programs, metropolitan and statewide planning, enhancements, and new eligibility for transit capital
projects. TEA-21 also contains many other provisions important to historic preservationists -- such as
the reauthorization of the scenic byways program -- which we will be reporting on in greater detail in
the near future.
TEA-21 is a major victory for historic preservation. The National Trust thanks all
preservation advocates for the many letters, phone calls and personal contacts with Members of
Congress made on behalf of the enhancements program and the historic preservation elements of the
transportation reauthorization bill.
For additional information or details on TEA-21, please call Dan Costello in the Department
of Law and Public Policy at (202) 588-6167.
-dune 5, 1998
06-10-98 03: 06 RECEIVED FROM: P-02
Nadonal Tm t for Historic Preservation Fox: 202688b Voice: 202E SZA To: Leslie M>uriqusnd at NAPC Pe0e3of4 Wednesday,June10.IN8 6:02:03ANI
TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENTS FUNDING ESTIMATES UNDER TEA-21
(in $ millions)
Preliminary Figures
Annual Ave.
Apport. STP
Annual Avg.
Appt. TE
ISTEA,
6-Year
Enhancements
TEA-21,
6-Year Total
Enhancements
6-Year Total
TE;
Transferable
Alabama
$131,151,000
$13,115,100
$53,504,774
$78,690,600
$676,550
Alaska
$59,687,000
$5,968,700
$70,005,709
$35,812,200
S0
Arizona
$109,866,000
$10,986,600
$40,049,255
$65,919,600
$3,096,,504
Arkansas
$93,043,000
$9304,300
$32,402,355
$55,825,800
$1,938,896
California
$595,027,000
$59,502,700
$214,331,868
$357,016,200
$20.350,520
Colorado
$85,562,000
$8,556,200
$39,707,145
$51,337200
$1,778,276
Connecticut
$71,079,000
$7,107,900
$61,086,448
$42,647A00
$0
Delaware
$31,989,000
$3,198,900
S16,666,717
$19,193,400
$0
District of
$27,219,000
$2,721,900
$12,600,809
$16,331,400
$307,658
Columbia
Florida
$323,906,000
$32,390,600
$133,023,903
$194,343,600
$2,071,209
Georgia
$242,869,000
$24,286,900
$82,891,619
$145,721,400
$5,938,983
Hawaii
$31,217,000
$3,121,700
$38,298,688
$18,730,200
$0
Idaho
$44,392,000
$4A39,200
$26,530,632
S26,635200
$15,353
Illinois
S215,077,000
S21,507,700
S123,295,218
$129.046200
$0
Indiana
$165,802,000
S16,580,200
$67,931,250
S99,48L200
S22,670
Iowa
$82,661,000
$8,266,100
$39,873,187
S49,596,600
S2,455,487
Kansas
$90,878,000
$9,087,900
$31,981628
$54,526,800
$6,044,616
Kentucky
$107,979,000
$10,797,900
$47,068,690
$64,787,400
$0
Louisiana
$99,265,000
S9,926,500
$37,178e605
$59,559,000
S3,386,928
Maine
$32,650,000
$3,265,000
$17,191,498
$19,590,000
S46,047
Maryland
$94,797,000
$9,479,700
$38,969,552
$56,878,200
5;811,135
Massachusetts
$95,922,000
$9,592,200
$48,666,068
$57,553,200
$o
Michigan
$225,858,000
$22,585,800
$65,495,010
$135,514,800
$13,466,018
Minnesota
$116,267,000
$11,626,700
$45,700,809
$69,760,200
$2.,771,97
Mississippi
$85,645,000
$8,564.500
$31,705228
$51,387,000
$1,681,103
Missouri
$153,494,000
$15,349,400
$48,317,191
$92,096,400
S4,798,011
06-10-98 03:07 RECEIVED FROM: ems, 117 P.03
National Trust for Historic Preservshan Faa:2o2666b030 Volee:2026666264 To: Leslie Mounauard et NAPC
Pa9e4o14 Wsdr,,;d y,June 10, INS 600:10Mt
Annual Avg.
Apport. STP
Annual Avg.
Appt. TE
ISTEA,
6-Year
Enhancements
TEA-21,
6-Year Total
Enhancements
6-Year Total
TE
Transrerable
Montana
$47,277,000
$4,727,700
$32,449,906
$28,366,200
$10
Nebraska
$55,922,000
$5,592,200
$29,315.521
$33,553,200
$351.,776
Nevada
$45,315,000
$4,53L500
$23,852,689
527,189,000
$313,874
New
$31,834,000
$3,183,400
$17,629,802
$19,100,400
$0
Hampshire
New Jersey
5127309,000
$12,770,900
$57,424,096
$76,625.400
$56,499
New Mexico
$57,446,000
$5,744,600
538,348,949
$34,467,600
$0
New York
$248,343,000
$24,834,300
$116,730,341
$149,005,800
$0
North Carolina
$184,568,000
$18,456,800
$77,874,860
$110,740,800
52,058,083
North Dakota
$38,754,000
$3,875,400
$25,798,561
$23,252,400
$0
Ohio
$216,389,000
$21,638,900
$86,749,267
$129.833,400
$0
Oklahoma
5116,331,000
$11,631100
$42,415,454
569,798,600
52,833,967
Oregon
$80,005,000
$8,000,500
$29,968.572
$48,003,000
$1,893,107
Pennsylvania
$216,673,000
$21,667,300
549,331.104
SL3Q003,800
514,971,554
Rhode Island
$34,742,000
$3,474,200
$13,827,299
S20,845.200
S1,297,898
South Carolina
5116212,000
$11,621,200
$40,637,578
569,727,200
$2,107,410
South Dakota
$43,756,000
$4.375,600
$26,161,791
526,253,600
$O
Tennessee
$139,481,000
$13,948,100
$54,125,552
$83,688,600
$556,662
Texas
$518,203,000
$51,820,300
$192,023,034
$310,92L800
$11,274,248
Utah
$49,936,000
$4,993,600
$20,217,229
$29,96L600
52,358,146
Vermont
$30,580,000
$3,058,000
$14,585,858
$18,348,000
5417,879
Virginia
5171,557,000
517,155,700
$46,664,691
$102,934,200
$8,509.473
Washington
$115,039,000
511,503,900
$32,947,294
$69,023,400
$4,1411310
West Virginia
$47,396,000
$4,739,600
$22,053,149
$28,437,600
$5511,291
Wisconsin
$144,587,000
$14,458,700
$68,750,331
$86,752,200
$0
Wyoming
$30,436,000
$3,043,600
$21,983,088
$18,261,600
$0
Totals:
56,321,793,000
$632,179,300
52,266,861,891
53,793,075,800
5120.3-70,729
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National Trust for Histone Preservation Fax AJ38L 18 Voice: 202d88S204 To: Leslie Mounquand at'. NAPC
Pagel of8 Wednesday, Aptl108, 19W 1004 49AM
March 1998
Vol. 2
Preservation Advocate News
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Department of Law and Public Policy
CONGRESSIONAL SPRING
RECESS IN APRIL:
Opportunities for Advocacy
The 105th Congress will take its Spring Recess
in April and provide a great opportunity for advocates to
visit the Members of Congress in their district offices. The
House will be in recess April 2-20, the Senate from April
4-19,
The National Trust encourages all advocates to
take advantage of this important "down time" to reconnect
with their elected officials on the key preservation issues
in the 105th Congress, including: the historic
homeownership tax credit, FY99 appropriations, takings,
ISTEA reauthorization, postal relocations and closings,
and HPF reauthorization.
Special funding issues to raise with your
Members include a budget request from the Historic
Preservation Fund of $2.7 million for National Historic
Landmarks grants and $50 million to support the
Millennium Initiative for grants to States, Tribes, and
Federal agencies for preservation of the Nation's heritage.
in this edition , . .
Congressional Spring Recess in April:
Opportunities for Advocacy
Senate Passes Transportation Reauthorization
(ISTEA2/S. 1173); House Marks Up ISTEA
House Resources Committee Marks Up Hefley
Bill (H_R. 1522)
Takings Bills on the Move in House and Senate
but Lack Credible Support
Senate Judiciary Committee Votes in Favor of
Takings Bill
' House Passes Tucker Act Shuffle Relief Act of
1997
Homeownership Tax Credit Bill Lobbying
Underway (H.R. 1134/S. 496)
Low -Income Housing Cap Legislation in Need of
Support (H.R. 2990, S. 1252, H.R. 3290)
National Trust Testifies before Congress
Proposed Amendments to the Antiquities Act of
1906 and World Heritage Sites Program in the
United States - Senate Subcommittee on
National Parks, Historic Preservation, and
Recreation, February 12
' GSA Federal Building Leasing Process
Senate Committee on Environment and Public
'Works Field Hearing, Butte, MT, February 17
' Proposed Plan for a Visitors Cem:er and
Museum Facilities Project at Gettysburg National
Military Park, Senate Subcommittee on National
Parks, Historic Preservation and Recreation,
February 24
' FY99 Interior Appropriations for Historic
Preservation, House Subcommittee on Interior
and Related Agencies, Committee on
Appropriations, March 3
Senate Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources Holds Hearing on Historic Lighthouse
Preservation Bill (S. 1403)
Green Scissors Campaign Issues 1998 Report
Card. Route 710, Corridor H, and Stillwater
Bridge Alternative Projects Cited
e State and Local News
' Chicago -based Demonstration Project for LEM
Mortgage Approved by Fannie Mae, Mortgage
Lenders
Forum News Special Report. 'An Act to Revive
Historic Urban Neighborhoods'
Advocate News Reprints
Public Policy Publications for Sale
SENATE PASSES TRANSPORTATION
REAUTHORIZATION iISTEA2); House Will Consider
Week of March 30
The Senate passed S. 1173 (ISTEA2), a six -year
reauthorization of the nation's surface transportation
programs on March 12th after eleven days of floor
consideration_ The Senate's ISTEA2 package totals
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Preservation Advocate News, March 1998, Vol. 2
$214 billion over six years -- approximately $36 billion per
year.
The most controversial of the proposed
amendments affecting historic preservation -- anti -
resource, anti -enhancements, anti -transit, and anti -clean
air quality -- were either withdrawn or so modified as to
render them harmless in the final version of the bill. Most
of the divisions between competing interests in the
Senate bill were resolved by the higher spending levels of
the entire package. Overall, the Senate's ISTEA2 bill is
very favorable to historic preservation.
House consideration of its bill (H.R. 2400), the
"Building Efficient Surface Transportation and Equity Act
of 1997" (BESTEA), will begin the week of March 30th.
The National Trust supports H.R. 2400 as reported out of
the House Transportation on March 24th, despite its
considerable differences with the Senate bill. The
National Trust will be monitoring the conference
committee negotiations resolving these differences to
ensure that the historic preservation elements of the
transportation reauthorization bill remain unaffected.
HOUSE RESOURCES COMMITTEE MARKS UP
HEFLEY BILL
The House Committee on Resources marked up
H.R. 1522, a bill making amendments to the National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), on March 25th.
Introduced by Rep. Joel Hefley (R-CC), H.R. 1522 will
extend the authorization for deposits of royalties from off
shore oil leases for the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF)
to 2004, The HPF provides funding for the national
preservation program through the annual appropriations
process
The Resources Committee adopted Rep. Hefley's
substitute amendment to H.R. 1522 as approved by the
Subcommittee on National Parks and Public Lands on
March 11th. Among other changes, the Hefley substitute
amendment:
1) extends the authorization for deposits of royalties
from off shore oil leases for the HPF until 2004,
2) specifically limits Section 107 of the NHPA which
exempts the White House and its grounds, the
Supreme Court building and its grounds, and the
United States Capitol and its related buildings
and grounds, from the Act,
3) codifies President Clinton's Executive Order
13006, stipulating that Federal agencies give first
consideration to historic properties in historic
districts in central downtown areas and business
districts when relocating federal facilities.
TAKINGS BILLS ON THE MOVE IN HOUSE AND
SENATE BUT UNLIKELY TO BECOME LAW
Senate Judiciary Committee Votes in Favor of
Takings Bill
The Senate Judiciary Committee passed a
federal takings bill — H.R. 1534, the "Citizens Access to
Justice Act' -- on a party line 10-8 vote on February 26th.
The vote prompted Democratic members of the
Committee to threaten a filibuster of the proposed
legislation on the Senate floor. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-
UT), the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, promised
to modify the controversial bill to ensure that it has a
chance for passage.
The National Trust thanks our faxboard advocates
in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee who responded to
our alert on the takings bill and lobbied key members of
the Senate Judiciary Committee -- Senators DeWine (R-
OH) , Specter (R-PA) and Thompson (R-TN) -- to vote
against the bill. Your timely advocacy with these key
committee members was instrumental in affecting their
views. Even though the bill was favorably reported out of
committee, the strict party -line vote was undermined by
concerns voiced by those three Republicans and others
reserving judgement on support for the bill on the floor of
the Senate. Before casting his vote, Senator DeWine
stated that 'th is bill in its current form is not the solution
... it imposes tremendous burdens on local communities."
The National Trust and a chorus of national
organizations representing state and local governments
are on record in opposition to H.R. 1534, including.
National Association of Counties, National Governors
Association, National Association of Towns and
Townships: National Conference of State Legislatures,
National League of Cities, U.S. Conference of Mayors,
International Municipal Lawyers Association, International
City and County Managers Association, and, 41 State
Attorneys General.
House Passes Tucker Act Shuffle Relief Act of 1997
The House of Representatives passed another
takings bill -- the "Tucker Act Shuffle Relief Act of 1997"
(H.R. 992) --by a vote of 230 to 180 on March 12th,
opening up another front in the war against land use and
environmental protection regulation. Introduced by Rep.
Lamar Smith (R-TX), H.R. 992 would allow unfettered
legal challenges to land use, environmental, and health
and safety protections already approved by Congress.
H.R. 992 would create massive regulatory
uncertainty by allowing claimants to challenge a wide
range of previously -decided environmental protection and
land use issues in the Court of Federal Claims and (on
appeal) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
Each of these courts would be free to ignore rulings that
had previously upheld an action protecting neighboring
homeowners, communities and the environment. Anyone
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who is unsatisfied with existing settled precedent in their
local federal district and appellate court could file such a
claim and, in effect, shop for a forum in a more
sympathetic court.
Although H.R. 992 ultimately passed the House
by a 50-vote margin, the bill's prospects are undermined
by an earlier vote on a Democratic substitute amendment
that required the unusual step of having Speaker Newt
Gingrich (R-GA) cast a vote to break a 206 to 206 tie.
The final vote did nothing to inspire confidence for the
hill's chances and is not nearly enough to overcome a
threatened Administration veto.
HOMEOWNERSHIP TAX CREDIT LOBBYING
UNDERWAY
Efforts to secure passage of the "Historic
Homeownership Assistance Act" (H_R_ 1134/S. 496) are
underway in the second session of the 105th Congress
by seeking additional cosponsors for the proposed
legislation and soliciting the support of the Administration
for the bill.
Representative John Lewis (D-GA) and 27 House
Democrats sent a letter of support for the historic
homeownership tax credit bill to President Clinton on
February 12th, urging the Administration to support the
bill in any tax legislation considered by Congress this
year. The letter of support emphasized how the
homeownership tax credit would serve as a catalyst to
revitalize inner cities and small town main streets, provide
a much needed boost to older neighborhoods, and
stabilize the tax base of the nation's older communities.
The letter also stated that the homeownership tax credit is
a "carefully targeted incentive" to low- and middle -income
families, which make up the majority of residents in the
nation's historic districts and older urban communities.
Preservation activists in Washington continue to
work with congressional staffers to address the revenue
loss issue.
Action Needed
The National Trust urges all advocates to contact
your Representatives and Senators and ask them to
cosponsor the homeownership tax credit bill. If they are
already a cosponsor, thank them and ask them to work
for passage of the bill. If you would like a sample letter, a
list of cosponsors or more information, please contact the
Law and Public Policy Office at 202-588-6254.
WRITE TO:
The Honorable (full name)
U.S. House of Representatives/United States Senate
Washington, DC 20515/20510
Dear Representative/Senator
LOW-INCOME HOUSING CAP LEGISLATION IN NEED
OFSUPPORT
Efforts are underway in Congress Io increase the
cap on the low-income housing tax credit by 40% and
index it forward to inflation. The cap increase has been
proposed in three bills-- H.R. 2990, H.R. 3290, and S.
1252 — and could produce an additional 150,000 to
180,000 affordable rental homes over the next five years.
The low-income housing credit is the nation's
primary tool for building affordable rental housing.
Established by Congress in 1986 and made permanent
in 1993, the credit has produced over 900,000 clean,
safe and affordable homes. The low-income housing tax
credit has been the cornerstone of the revitalization of
low-income communities and contributes to economic
growth, generating approximately 60,000 jobs, $1.8
billion in wages and $650 million in federal taxes annually.
The low-income housing credit can also be combined with
the historic rehabilitation tax credit to create affordable
rental housing units utilizing historic structures.
Action Needed
Write or call or your Representative and Senators
and ask them to cosponsor H.R. 2990 (sponsored by
Rep. John Ensign, R-NV), H.R. 3290 (sponsored by Rep.
Nancy Johnson, R-CT), and S. 1252 (sponsored by Sen.
Alfonse M. D'Amato, R-NY). Let your Representatives
and Senators know that overcoming the nation's severe
shortage of decent, affordable housing requires creative,
market -driven solutions such as the Icw-income housing
tax credit In particular, let your Members of Congress
know that H. R. 3290 modifies the criteria for allocating
housing credits among projects to give preference to
existing housing that is part of a community revitalization
plan and community revitalization projects located in
qualified census tracts. This kind of "place -based"
allocation of federal resources reinforces preservation
efforts
H.R_ 2990 and H.R. 3290 have been referred to
the House Committee on Ways and Means S. 1252 has
been referred to the Senate Committee on Finance.
WRITE TO:
The Honorable (full name)
U.S. House of Representatives/United States Senate
Washington, DC 20515120510
Dear Representative/Senator
OR CALL the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at :225-3121
(House), 224-3121 (Senate) and ask to be connected to
your Representative's or Senators' offices.
H.R. 2990 has 61 cosponsors and S. 1252 has
18 cosponsors. H R. 3290 has no cosponsors.
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NATIONAL TRUST TESTIFIES BEFORE CONGRESS
ON ANTIQUITIES ACT, WORLD HERITAGE SITES,
GSA LEASING POLICIES, GETTYSBURG VISITOR
MUSEUM PROJECT, AND FY99 INTERIOR
APPROPRIATIONS
The Antiquities Act of 1906 and the World Heritage
Sites Program
Edward M. Norton, Jr., National Trust Vice -
President for Law and Public Policy, testified before the
Senate Subcommittee on Parks, Historic Preservation,
and Recreation on February 12th in opposition to
proposed amendments to the Antiquities Act of 1906,
and proposed changes to the World Heritage Sites
Program in the United States.
The "Idaho Protection Act of 1997" (S. 62), the
"National Monument Fairness Act" (H.R. 1127/S. 477),
and Section 3 of the `Public Land Management
Participation Act of 1997" (S. 691) would amend the
Antiquities Act to require an Act of Congress before the
permanent establishment of a national monument by the
President. H.R. 1127 would also restrict the President's
authority under the Act to issue proclamations involving
more than 50,000 acres. These proclamations would be
limited to one per state in a single calendar year, and
require the President to obtain the written comments from
the governor of the affected state prior to submitting a
national monument proposal to Congress for approval.
The National Trust testified in opposition to these bills.
U.S. Participation in World Heritage Sites Program
Threatened
Mr. Norton also testified against two bills that
would amend Section 401 of the National Historic
Preservation Act (NHPA) — S. 691, the "Public Land
Management Participation Act of 191 and H.R. 901,
the''American Land Sovereignty Protection Act." These
bills propose to amend the NHPA to require an Act of
Congress before any lands owned by the United States
are designated for inclusion on the World Heritage List.
The National Trust apposes these amendments as
unnecessary, inappropriate and prohibitively burdensome
to the World Heritage sites program_
Legislative Status
Two of the bills considered by the Subcommittee
on Parks on February 12th have passed the House --
H.R. 901, the "American Land Sovereignty Protection
Act," and H.R. 1127, the "National Monument Fairness
Act." H.R. 901 and H.R. 1127 have already passed the
House and pose threats to the World Heritage Sites
Program and the Antiquities Act of 1906, respectively. All
advocates should be ready to fight against these bills if
they are brought before the full Senate.
GSA Federal Building Leasing Policies
National Trust Mountains/Plains Regional
Director Barbara Pahl testified before the Senate
Committee on Environment and Public Works at a field
hearing in Butte, Montana, regarding the General Service
Administration's (GSA) federal building leasing policies
on February, 17th.
Director Pahl testified that public input and local
community involvement are critical components of
national policy in preserving historic resources and
strengthening downtown commercial renters. Pahl made
two major recommendations for GSA to meet its historic
preservation responsibilities with regard to its federal
leasing policies. First, GSA should broaden its "Good
Neighbor Program" -- a new and constructive
public/private partnership with urban downtown
associations -- beyond business improvement districts
(BIDS) to include the "economic and civil life of the whole
downtown." Second, GSA should issue implementation
guidelines for Executive Order 13006 to show the
practical benefits for federal agencies of forming
partnerships with local governments and private
organizations in the field to enhance and revitalize their
downtown areas.
Director Pahl concluded her testimony with a
recommendation that Congress should codify Executive
Order 13006 as proposed in H.R. 1522. (See earlier
story.)
Proposed New Visitor Center and Museum Facilities
at Gettysburg National Military Park
National Trust President Richard Moe testified
before the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks,
Historic Preservation, and Recreation on February 24th,
regarding the proposed new visitor center and museum
facilities project at Gettysburg National Military Park. The
proposed plan calls for removing the present visitor center
and the Cyclorama building and restoring those parcels of
the battlefield to its 1863 condition. The new plan holds
the promise of protecting and preserving archives and
artifacts which are now at risk, and significantly enhancing
the visitor experience and understanding of what
happened at Gettysburg.
Mr. Moe stated that the new visitor center plan
deserves serious consideration, but within ire standard
processes established under the Park Service's own
procedures, the National Environmental Po icy Act, the
National Historic Preservation Act, and other applicable
laws and regulations. A systematic review of the new plan
should also be undertaken within the framework of a
General Management Plan for the Park and involve the
public at every stage of the review process to ensure that
the new visitor center enhances resource protection and
the visitor experience.
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Preservation Advocate News, March 1998, Vol. 2
Fiscal Year 1999 Funding for Historic Preservation
Ed Norton testified before the Subcommittee on
Interior and Related Agencies on March 3, 1998 in
support of fiscal year 1999 funding for historic
preservation. Mr. Norton requested $100 million for the
nation's historic preservation activities in fiscal year 1999
and urged the subcommittee to provide the following
funding levels
• $40 million in grants-in-aid to the State Historic
Preservation Offices (SHPOs), and to provide an
increase in funding to Tribal and Native Hawai'ian
preservation programs and the Historically Black
Colleges and Universities, through the Historic
Preservation Fund (HPF),
• $50 million for the "Save America's Treasures"
program, which is part of President Clinton's
Millennium Initiative,
$3 million for the National Park Service's
"Vanishing Treasures" Initiative,
• $3 million for the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation, and,
• $1.95 million for the National Center for
Preservation Technology and Training in
Natchitoches, Louisiana,
Fiscal year 1999 will be the first year since 1976
that the National Trust is not seeking a direct federal
appropriation from Congress. In fiscal year 1996,
Congress stipulated that the National Trust would have
three years to transition off of federal funding. Mr. Norton
thanked the chairman and the subcommittee for honoring
the transition agreement, which provided $3.5 million per
year to the National Trust through fiscal year 1998, and
urged the subcommittee to appropriate the $3.5 million
appropriation forgone by the National Trust in FY99 to the
state historic preservation offices.
"Save America's Treasures
Mr. Norton endorsed the Clinton Administration's
request of $50 million from the Historic Preservation Fund
for the "Save America's Treasures" program as part of the
Administration's Millennium Initiative. The proposed
"Save America's Treasures" program through the U. S.
Department of Interior will.
provide $50 million from the Historic Preservation
Fund in special funding for heritage projects in
each of two years, starting in Fiscal Year 1999,
allow $25 milion of these funds to be transferred
to federal agencies' efforts toward preservation
and restoration of endangered historic sites,
artifacts, and documents identified by the
National Park Service and other federal agencies,
authorize $25 million -- to be granted by State
Historic Preservation Officers with appropriate
state partners -- to assist historic sites, artifacts,
and documents owned by state agencies, local
governments, and nonprofit organizations, and
require that the grants be matched.
The program will include a parallel private effort to
raise money from corporations, foundations and
individuals, and a public education campaign highlighting
the importance of preserving America's heritage.
TheAdministration has requested that the National Trust
assist with the public education campaign and work with
a high-level advisory committee to direct this funding to
the urgent preservation needs identified at the national
level and by the states.
Copies of the National Trust's testimony before
Congress are available from the Law and Public Policy
Department. Please call (202) 583-6254 for further
information.
SENATE ENERGY COMMITTEE HOLDS HEARING ON
LIGHTHOUSE PRESERVATION BILL
The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources held a hearing on S. 1403, the "National
Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 1997," on
February 11th. Introduced by Senator Frank Murkowski
(R-AK), S. 1403 would amend the National Historic
Preservation Act to establish a national historic
lighthouse preservation program.
S. 1403 requires the Secretary of the Interior to
implement a lighthouse preservation program and carry
out the following activities:
• collect and disseminate information concerning
historic light stations, including historic
lighthouses and associated structures,
• foster educational programs relating to the
history, practice, and contribution to society of
historic light stations,
sponsor or conduct research and study into the
history of light stations,
maintain a listing of historic light stations, and
assess the effectiveness of the program
regarding the conveyance of historic light
stations.
Conveyances and Sales of Historic Li c ht t Stations
S. 1403 also requires the Secretary of the Interior
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and the Administrator of the General Services
Administration (GSA) to establish a process for identifying
and selecting an "eligible entity to which a historic light
station could be conveyed for education, park, recreation,
cultural and historic preservation purposes." An "eligible
entity" for conveyance would include any department or
agency of the state or the local government of the
community in which the historic light station is located, a
nonprofit corporation, and an educational agency or
community development organization. Under S. 1403,
priority consideration will be given to applications for
conveyances of a historic light station in cases where the
public entity can enter into a partnership with a nonprofit
organization whose primary mission is historic light station
preservation. Conveyances would be made subject to
conditions to ensure that a historic light station's
usefulness as a navigational aid is protected.
S. 1403 was introduced on November 7, 1997 by
Sen. Frank Murkowski (R-AK). The Committee on
Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing on the bill
on February 11, 1998.
GREEN SCISSORS CAMPAIGN ISSUES 1998
REPORT CARD: Route 710, Corridor H, and
Stillwater Bridge Alternative Transportation Projects
Cited for Wasteful Spending
The Green Scissors Campaign -- led by Friends
of the Earth, Taxpayers for Common Sense, and the U.S.
Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG) -- issued its
Green Scissors'98 report card on January 21st, The
report card graded the Clinton Administration's progress
on implementing 71 budget cut recommendations that
would save taxpayers nearly $50 billion and protect the
environment. The report card gave the Administration a
"D" grade in transportation for not taking decisive action to
kill 15 transportation projects -- including the Route 710
(South Pasadena, CA) and "Corridor H" (West Virginia)
highway projects, and the Stillwater Bridge Alternative
Project (Minnesota).
For more information on the status of these
projects and the National Trust's role in fighting them, call
the Legal Defense Fund at (202) 588-6035. Copies of
the Green Scissors'98 report can be obtained from
Friends of the Earth for $5 or by calling (202) 783-7400,
ext. 239. The report is also available on the Internet at
www.foe. org.
STATE AND LOCAL NEWS: Chicago -based
Demonstration Project for Location -Efficient
Mortgage (LEM) Approved by Fannie Mae, Mortgage
Lenders
The Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT),
in partnership with the Natural Resources Defense
Council (NRDC) and the Surface Transportation Policy
Project (STPP), will test a new mortgage underwriting tool
for a Chicago -based demonstration project called the
Location -Efficient Mortgage (LEM). CNT and its partner
organizations received approval from the Federal National
Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) last October to test
the LEM as a tool to encourage sustainable communities
through homeownership. The LEM is an innovative
mortgage product designed to offer homeownership
opportunities to low- and moderate -income borrowers who
are interested in living in high density urban areas served
by public transportation systems. LEM rewards those
willing to give up cars and live in densely populated,
transit -rich areas by factoring auto -related savings (gas,
insurance, repairs, monthly payment=_: and depreciation)
into mortgage eligibility calculations.
For more information on the LEM Partnership,
the origins of the LEM product, or the Chicago -based
demonstration project, call James Hoeveler at CNT,
773/278-4800, x. 115, or visit CNT's Internet web site at
http //wwvv.cnt. org/lem.
FORUM NEWS SPECIAL REPORT: "An ,act to Revive
Historic Urban Neighborhoods"
The National Trust's Forum News, a bi-monthly
newsletter of Historic Preservation Forum, has issued a
special report entitled, "An Act to Revive Historic Urban
Neighborhoods," by Tamar Osterman, director of
government affairs of the National Trust.
The report highlights the potential role of a federal
historic homeownership tax credit in attracting
reinvestment and middle-class homeowners to older
urban neighborhoods and stabilizing historic residential
communities. The report provides examples of two
historic districts -- Quaker Hill Historic District in
Wilmington, Delaware, and Pleasant Streel: Historic
District, Gainesville, Florida -- that could benefit from the
federal homeowner tax credit proposal currently pending
in the 105th Congress.
For a copy of the report, call the Law and Public
Policy Department at (202) 588-6254.
If you would like to receive Forum News special
reports on a regular basis, consider joining Historic
Preservation Forum and put yourself in the forefront of
preservation activity all across the country_ For further
information about Historic Preservation Forum
membership and its benefits, contact Donna Gentry at
the National Trust [202-588-6053 (phone), 202-588-6223
(fax), e-mail. Forum@nthp. org]. Please make reference
to the Preservation Advocate News in requesting
additional information on Forum membership and
benefits.
CARE TO REPRINT A PRESERVATION ADVOCATE
NEWS ARTICLE? -- Feel Free to Feel Free
The National Trust encourages all advocates to
reprint and distribute Preservation Advocate News to
other groups outside of the Preservation Faxboard
Network. No advance permission is required from the
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Preservation Advocate News, March 1998, Vol. 2
National Trust to reprint, mail or fax forward the
newsletter -- in part or whole -- to other groups or
individuals for the purpose of furthering advocacy
outreach efforts. (We do appreciate being credited.)
This policy encourages a wider dissemination of
preservation's advocacy message.
The National Trust appreciates the efforts of all
advocates to "get the word out" and is Interested in
learning about the extent to which the newsletter is
shared outside of the faxboard network. Please contact
us about your individual advocacy networks -- large or
small -- to give us a better idea of the true size and
impact of the Preservation Faxboard Network. Call the
Law and Public Policy Department at 202-588-6254 or
write us an e-mail at policy@nthp.org with information
about your advocacy networks, and how we can better
work together to advance the cause of preservation.
PUBLIC POLICY PUBLICATIONS FOR SALE
The Law and Public Policy Department offers a
variety of publications for sale on public policy issues
affecting sprawl, neighborhood preservation and
economic revitalization. To place an order or for a
complete listing of public policy publications, contact
Tedra Williams at (202) 588-6255, Below is a sample of
some of the publications offered for sale.
Dollars and Sense of Historic Preservation. A compilation
of some of the better studies and articles on the economic
benefits of historic preservation_ Ten studies are available
-- S5 each or $40 for the complete set.
Changing Places Confronts the Ills of Urban Sprawl
National Trust President Richard Moe and Carter
Wilkie — longtime preservationist, former White House
speech writer, and current advisor to Mayor Thomas
Merino of Boston -- have written a new book entitled
Changing Places: Rebuilding Community in the Age of
Sprawl
Changing Places explores how America's historic
communities are confronting urban sprawl and provides
examples of how fragile towns throughout New England
and the Midwest are defending themselves from retailing
giants like Wal-Mart; how community activists are building
pride and hope in distressed neighborhoods in Pittsburgh
and New Orleans by using preservation as tool for
revitalization; and how cities such as Denver, Memphis,
and Portland, Oregon, are breathing life back into their
historic downtowns. Changing Places also challenges
Americans to "abandon the frontier mentality of boundless
growth" because current patterns of urbanization are
unsustainable and cost too much.
Other public policy publications on sprawl are
available from the National Trust's Informaton Series
program (202-588-6296), including.
Better Models for Superstores: Alternatives to Big -Box
SSgrawl. A 57-page guide to help communities persuade
national retailers to invest in downtowns and stop paving
farmland for big box sprawl. Better Models summarizes
the resulis of an economic study of the effects of outlying
superstores on older downtowns, and urges communities
to write plans and zoning ordinances that support
downtown revitalization goals instead of leaving towns
vulnerable to sprawl. Copies are available for $10.
Smart States Better CommunitiesHow State
Governments Can Help Citizens Preserve Their
Communities. A lively and informative book describing
policy initiatives that state governments can take to
support citizen efforts to save what they value most about
their communities. Includes a comprehensive analysis of
the strongest state policies that promote historic
preservation along with 100 photos illustrating those
policies. Available for $30 plus $5 shipping and handling.
How Superstore Sprawl Can Harm Communities (And
What Citizens Can do About Itl. The original "Bible of
Sprawl" is back in print and is "must reading" for
preservation advocates -- $20, plus $3 shipping and
handling.
PRESERVATION ADVOCATE NEWS Is PUBLJSHED ON A
MONTHLY BASIS BY THE NATIONAL TRUST S DEPARTMENT
OF LAM AND PUBLIC PoucY AND DISTRIBUTED'JIA
FAC5I11IIL TO ITS GRASSROOTS FW(BOARD NETCORN, For,
SIONUP INFORMATION CONTACTI
NATIONAL TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRE5EF,A11ON
DEPARTMENT OF LAW A PUBLIC POLICY
17e5 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.J'/.
WASHINGTON. DC ZOO-10
202-088-0254 (PHONE)
Z02'S88-T5038 (FAN)
E-MAIL'. POLICY0rNTHP,OFG
TANIAR L. GSTFRMAN
DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
EDITOR
STAFF WRITER5.
CARLWo1.F, DAN GOSTELLO, LAURASAGG5
d 1998, PR FSF RVATION ADVOCATE NEWS
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Preservation Advocate News, March 1998, Vol. 2
ogee 8
ORDER FORM FOR CHANGING PLACES
,
----------------------------
Order Your Copy of Chancing Places Today!
Price: $25.00, plus $3.50 for shipping and handling.
Name
❑ Check enclosed (payable to the National Trust)
❑ Please charge my MasterCard/Visa
Card Number Expiration Date
Please mail or fax your order to:
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Department of Law and Public Policy
Attention: Tedra Williams
1785 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036
202-588-6038 (FAX)
,cIOM
�
ALL PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF CHANGING
PLACES BENEFIT THE PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAM
OF THE NATIONAL TRUST!
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Poll. 1 efJ Thursday, May 21, 1680 6:M 20 AM
May 1998
N7ol. 3
Preservation Advocate fN ews
National Trust for Historic Preservation
TAX LEGISLATION A
STRONG POSSIBILITY THIS
YEAR: Prospects for Historic
Homeownership Assistance Act
Look Good
A number of House and Senate members are
predicting that Congress will consider tax legislation
before adjourning in October. This tax legislation could
be the vehicle for passing the Historic Homeownership
Assistance Act (H.R. 1134/S. 496). Preservationists
have worked hard for three years to secure passage of
the historic homeownership tax credit and these efforts
have resulted in a solid base of support for the
homeownership tax credit in the House and Senate: H.R.
1134 has 117 cosponsors in the House, including 16
members of the Ways and Means Committee, S. 496 has
24 cosponsors in the Senate, including 12 members of
the Senate Finance Committee.
Action Needed
Your assistance is needed in translating the solid
base of support the homeownership tax credit enjoys in
the House and Senate to all members of the tax -writing
committees. Work on a tax bill could begin in early June,
and preservationists must communicate with their
members of Congress at this critical juncture to ensure
the homeownership tax credit proposals gets a fair
hearing during the committee deliberations on a new tax
bill.
Contact your Senators and Representatives
and ask them to urge Senator Roth, chairman of the
Senate Finance Committee, and Representative
Archer, chairman of the House Ways and Means
Committee, to include the Historic Homeownership
Assistance Act in the upcoming tax bill. This month
is an opportune time to reach your Members of Congress
because of the Memorial Day recess (May 25- 29 for the
House, May 23-31 for the Senate). Take advantage of
this recess to:
• schedule a visit with your Members of
Congress in their district offices and ask
for their support for the Historic
Homeownership Assistance Act, and
• thank your Members of Congress if they
have already cosponsored H.R. 1134 or
S. 496, but also ask them to reiterate
their support for the historic
homeownership tax credit to Chairman
Roth and/or Chairman Archer.
... in this edition
Feature Stories
Tax Bill a Strong Possibility This Year.
Prospects for the Historic Homeownership
Assistant Act Look Good
IS'TEA Differences Still Unresolved in
Conference Committee
Legal Defense Fund Roundup (Route 710,
Woodrow Wilson Bridge, Corridor H)
The News in Brief
.- from Capttol Hill
• Petroglyphs Bill Passes as Rider to
Emergency Supplemental Appropriations
Legislation
• National Trust Signs Letter Opposing Takings
Bills Pending in the Senate
• Senator Baucus Introduces the "Community
and Postal Participation Act of 1998"
... from the Administration
• Clinton Issues Executive Order on American
Heritage Rivers Initiative Advisory Committee
• IJSPS Issues Interim Rule on Expansion,
Relocation, Construction of New Post Offices
_. from the foundations and state government
• National Trust Receives Grants from Turner
and Jackson Foundations for Fighting Sprawl
. Lilly Endowment Awards$42 Million Grant
United Negro College Fund, Historically
Black Colleges
• Indiana Governor Announces $'1 Million for
Preservation of Historic and Cultural
Resources
from the National Trust
1998 Great American Main Street Awards
Announcement
Maryland Governor Receives Award From
Richard Moe
Advocate of the Month
1
05-21-98 03:08 RECEIVED FROM: •..i 127 P.-01
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Preservation Advocate News, D4ay 1998, Vol. 3
ISTEA DIFFERENCES STILL UNRESOLVED: Partial
Transfer of Enhancements Funds and Improvements
to the Historic Bridge Program Not Yet Decided
Conference committee negotiations are
continuing this month in the hopes of resolving the
differences in competing versions of the Intermodal
Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA), a six -year
reauthorization of all surface transportation spending
programs. Conferees hope to reach agreement on a
compromise bill that the House and Senate will approve
and send to the President by May 21 st.
At this point, conferees have agreed to drop most
of the new enhancements categories added in the House
bill and have substituted "related to transportation' in the
place of the House's "direct link to transportation" as an
eligibility requirement for enhancements projects. The
National Trust applauds these actions. Conferees have
also tentatively agreed to language that endorses the
National Trust's call for comprehensive planning and local
control in transportation investment decisions.
There is still time to contact your Members of
Congress. Call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 225-
3121 (House) or(202) 224-3121 (Senate) and ask to be
connected to your Representative's or Senator's office.
Urge your Members of Congress to insist that partial
transfer of enhancements funds be dropped from the
conference agreement and the Senate's
improvements to the historic bridge program be
included!
If you have further questions or need assistance,
call the Public Policy Department at (202) 588-6255.
LEGAL DEFENSE FUND ROUNDUP
Department of Transportation Approves Route 710
Freeway Project
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
approved plans to build the Route 710 Freeway Extension
on April 13th through some of the most stable historic
communities in the Los Angeles Basin area of Southern
California. National Trust President Richard Moe decried
the DOT'S decision, stating "the Route 710 Freeway
should never be built,' and "bulldozing stable
neighborhoods for freeway construction is a crude,
outmoded approach to transportation and a waste of
taxpayers money."
Route 710 has generated strong local and
national opposition since it was first proposed more than
30 years ago. The freeway will cost more than a billion
dollars for a mere 4.5 miles of pavement and move traffic
less than one mile -per -hour faster than a low -build
alternative. Five historic districts in the communities of
Pasadena, South Pasadena and El Sereno would be
damaged by the project. In addition, it is estimated that
more than 1,000 homes and thousands of mature trees
would be directly affected or suffer adverse effects
through their proximity to the freeway
Otherfederal agencies -- the Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation, the Environmental Protection
Agency, and the Department of the Interior -- also oppose
the 710 Freeway Project based on its impact on the
environment and its effects on stable, historic
communities. The Advisory Council cited the 710 project
as "... one of the most important historic preservation
cases ever and wrote a letter to President Clinton
urging him to consider the low -build alternative.
The communities and organizations opposing the
710 Freeway will now have to seek relief in the courts
National Trust Challenges Federal Highway
Administration's 4(f) Review Process in Federal
Courts
The National Trust is opposing the Federal
Highway Administration's (FHWA) Section 4(f) review
process under the Department of Transportation Act
involving historic preservation review of two mammoth,
federally -funded transportation projects. Section 4(f)
permits the Secretary of Transportation to approve any
program that requires the use of land from a historic site
only if there is no feasible and prudent alternative to the
use of that land and the program includes all possible
planning to minimize the harm to the historiz site. Below
is a summary of the National Trust's legal actions in these
federal court cases_
Woodrow Wilson Bridee Replacement Proiect
The National Trust filed an amicus curiae motion
the week of April 27th before the federal district court for
the District of Columbia in support of the City of
Alexandria's lawsuit challenging the FHWA's
environmental and Section 4(f) review process for the
Woodrow Wilson Bridge Replacement: Project. The City
and a coalition of local citizens' groups, who are
intervening as cc -plaintiffs in the case, are challenging the
Federal Highway Administration's decision on several
grounds, including deferral of historic preservation review
until after approval of the project rather than prior to
approval, as required by Section 4(f) of the Department of
Transportation Act. As proposed, the replacement bridge
will cut through the southern portion of the Alexandria
National Register Historic District, passing within blocks of
the Alexandria National Historic Landmark District and
severely impacting several protected sites. The amicus
brief argued that FHWA has foreclosed or substantially
reduced options for meaningful mitigation or avoidance of
historic properties by deferring both identification of
historic resources and assessment of the project's impact
on those resources until the project Is underway.
Corridor H Protect
The National Trust joined an amicus curiae brief
before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit on
April 7th in support of local groups opposing construction
of Corridor H. Corridor H is a 100-mile-lorig divided, four -
lane, limited -access freeway project, ,vhi&i would slice
through areas in rural West Virginia rich in historic and
r
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Preservation Advocate News, May 1998, Vol. 3
environmental resources virtually untouched since the
Civil War. Corridor H Alternatives and the local chapter of
the Sierra Club are challenging the Federal Highway
Administration's deferral of historic preservation and
environmental review in its decision to approve the
freeway, and the agency's rejection of a non -freeway
alternative that would involve improving and upgrading
the existing network of two-lane roads. The National Trust
joined as amicus Scenic America, Friends of the Earth,
Save America's Forests, and Taxpayers for Common
Sense. The amicus brief argued that FHWA's deferral of
both identification of historic resources and assessment of
the project's impact on those resources -- including two
Civil War battlefields -- until the project is underway, will
foreclose or substantially reduce the options for
meaningful mitigation or avoidance of historic properties
as required by Section 4(f) of the Department of
Transportation Act.
THE NEWS IN BRIEF
from Capitol Hill
• President Clinton signed a supplemental
emergency appropriations bill (H.R. 3579) for
disaster relief and overseas military operations into
law on May 1st which includes the "Petroglyph
National Monument Boundary Adjustment Act"
(S. 6331H.R. 1424) as a rider. The controversial rider
excludes 8.5 acres of the Petroglyph National Monument
in Albuquerque, New Mexico, from statutory protection for
the purpose of extending a six -lane commuter
expressway. The expressway, called Paseo Del Norte,
will connect Albuquerque to rapidly growing suburban
sprawl development west of the city. The National Trust
and a combination of conservation, environmental and
Native American groups oppose the construction of the
expressway because of the irreparable harm it would
bring to integrity of the Monument. After signing the
emergency supplemental bill into law, President Clinton
issued a press statement criticizing Congress for placing
"politics above sound science" and described the
Petroglyphs rider as "a dangerous departure from the
practice of managing National Parks.' The rider transfers
authority over the 8.5 acres of the Monument to the city of
Albuquerque, which must now decide whether or not to
extend the road. If constructed, Pasco Del Norte will
carry as many as 24,000 cars per day through the
segmented portion of the Monument and contribute to the
city's growing sprawl problem. Construction of the
expressway would also be an unprecedented violation of
the sacred values held by the Indian Pueblos, who
regard the Petroglyphs National Monument as a sacred
site in their religious ceremonies. • The National Trust
joined more than 100 conservation, planning, civil
rights, labor, religious, local government, and
citizens' organizations on April 28th in signing a
letter to the full Senate opposing two takings
legislative proposals (H.R. 1534, H.R.992). The
takings bills would undermine a wide variety of local, state
and federal safeguards for environmentalhealth and
safety, and land use protections already approved by
Congress. The Senate Judiciary Committee approved
substitute language for H.R. 1534 on February 26th that
combines far reaching and destructive versions of both
bills. The Senate is expected to bring a takings bill to the
floor in May or June. • Senator Max Baucus (D-MT)
introduced the "Community and Postal Participation
Act of 1998" (S. 2035) on May 5th requiring the Postal
Service to establish minimum guidelines for public
participation requirements in any actions affecting the
relocation, closing or consolidation of post offices.
S. 2035 is the companion bill to H.R. 1231, the "Post
Office Community Partnership Act," (H.R. 1231)
introduced by Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) last
year. These bills address the inequitable treatment of
communities imposed by the Postal Service's failure to
comply with any local zoning or building codes and the
agency's relocation and closing policies which have
contributed to the decline of historic downtowns, reduced
the economic vitality of downtown areas, reduced access
to post office services to the poor and elderly, and
contributed to urban sprawl.
from the Administration
• President Clinton issued Executive Order 13080
on April 7th establishing the American Heritage
Rivers Initiative Advisory Committee to review
nominations from communities and recommend to
the President up to 20 rivers for consideration for
designation as American Heritage Rivers. The
Committee will consist of up to 20 members appointed by
the President from the public and private sectors with
expertise in areas such as natural, cultural, and historic
resources, water quality, public health, scenic and
recreation interests, tourism and economic development
interests; industry, and agriculture. The American
Heritage Rivers Initiative (AHRI) is designed to support
river -based, community -led efforts to revitalize local
economies, protect natural resources and the
environment, and preserve historic and cultural
resources. The Advisory Committee held two open
meetings to the public on May 11 and May 12 prior to
selecting the 20 finalist applicant rivers. For further
information, contact Chip Smith, Office of the Assistant
Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) at: 703-693-3655.
• The Postal Service issued an interim rule on May
7th regarding expansion, relocation, and
construction of new post offices. 'The interim rule
outlines specific procedures to expand opportunities for
members of communities affected by Postal Service
facility expansion, relocation and construction to convey
their views under section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act and executive orders 13006 and 12072.
For further information, contact John Sorenson, U.S.
Postal Service Facilities at (703) 526-2782 Written
comments should be submitted to Louis Norris, Manager,
Real Estate, U.S. Postal Service, Facilities, 4301 Wilson
Boulevard, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22203-1861,
grants from foundations, state government
• The National Trust received a $100,000 grant
from the Turner Foundation to further its State and
Local Policy Program for the purpose of developing and
05-21-98 03: 11 RECEIVED FROM: P.93
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Preservation Advocate -News, May 1998, Vol. 3
maintaining an information clearinghouse related to the
challenges of urban sprawl. The general support grant
will. 1) help conduct research state government policies
that subsidize or promote sprawl while discouraging
community revitalization, 2) develop new and more
compelling arguments for making the case against
sprawl, 3) provide leadership for an emerging national
movement to contain sprawl, and 4) disseminate books
on how to reduce sprawl. • The National Trust also
received a $18,000 grant from the Jackson
Foundation for the purpose of producing a report
summarizing major efforts now under way by business,
government, university, religious and national
organizations to deal with various aspects of urban
sprawl. The report proposes to a) show the diversity of
interests involved in the sprawl problem and provide a
useful summary of concerns and agendas; b) raise the
profile of the sprawl problem, c) educate the media,
foundations and public officials about the issue and the
organizations involved, d) eliminate duplication of effort by
organizations involved in the sprawl issue, and e) provide
a practical list of some of the best resources -- i.e.,
technical assistance, grassroots organizing, videotapes,
booksreports etc. -- to help reduce sprawl. • The
United Negro College Fund (UNCF) announced the
receipt of a $42 million grant for a three-year program
to assist historically black colleges and universities with
construction needs, student financial aid and faculty
assistance, from the Lilly Endowment, Inc. of
Indianapolis. The gift is the largest the Lilly Endowment
has ever made to a single organization In its 61 years of
existence. The United Negro College Fund is a nonprofit
organization founded 54 years ago and is the oldest
organization in the nation assisting minority higher
education. The UNCF proposes to administer grants
averaging $1 million for its 39 members. The size and
flexibility of the gift could result in more grants for
rehabilitation of historic structures on historically black
college campuses. a Governor Frank O'Bannon
announced the State of Indiana's largest -ever
financial commitment for preservation of historic
and cultural resources as part of the Hometown
Indiana 1998 grant program in early February. Under
the new program, $1 million in matching grants will be
available to local governments and private, nonprofit
organizations without religious affiliations. Grants will
range from $4,000 to $100,000 and eligible project
activities will include acquisition, stabilization,
preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, or archaeological
investigation of properties listed in the Indiana State
Register of Historic Sites and Structures. For further
information, contact Jon Smith or Steve Kennedy,
Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology at (317)
232-1646
_. awards for downtown revitalization, Maryland anti -
sprawl campaign
• The National Main Street Center announced the
winners of its 1998 Great American Main Street
Awards on April 13th The five winning communities --
Thomasville, Georgia; Corning, Iowa; Lanesboro,
Minnesota; York, Pennsylvania; and Morgantown,
West Virginia -- were selected as the best revitalized
downtowns in the nation. The awards program --
cosponsored by Edward Jones, a financial =.services firm --
recognizes five communities each year for their
outstanding efforts in downtown revitalization_ The award -
winning communities were chosen by a panel of experts
in community revitalization, economic development and
historic preservation for their evolving track record of
overall success. Representatives from the five winning
communities will be honored at the 1998 National Town
Meeting on Main Street on May 18 In Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania. For further information, contact the
National Main Street Center at 202-588-6219. • National
Trust President Richard Moe presented an award to
Maryland Governor Parris Glendening for his strong
national leadership in the campaign against sprawl
development In a brief ceremony at the Maryland State
House in March. The award recognized the governor's
leadership for initiating the Smart Growth Initiative, a
program which preserves the environment and revitalizes
existing communities where many historic buildings and
heritage resources are located.
Advocate of the Month - Kim Trent, Knox Heritage
The National Trust appreciates the efforts of all
preservation advocates who lobby for public: policies
favorable to historic preservation. This month
Preservation Advocate News salutes Kim Trent,
President of Knox Heritage, as it's Advocate of the Month
for her extraordinary efforts in March to "getthe word out"
on a takings bill (H.R. 1534), and lobbying members of
the Tennessee congressional delegation to support the
historic homeownership tax credit bill (H.R. 11341S. 496).
Congratulations on a job well donel
PRESERVAT/OH ADVOCATE NEWS 15 PUBLISHED ON A
MONTHLY SA515 BY THE NATIONAL TRUSTS DEPARTMENT
OF LAW AND PUBLIC POLICY AND DIILUM 1I'D VIT
FACSIMILE TO ITS GRASSROOTS EA%20ARD NETWORK. FOR
SIGN UP INFORMATION CONTACT:
NATIONALTRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION
DEPARTMENT OF LAw Fv PUBLIC (POLICY
1765 1.ttss.ACHus ETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHwGTON, oc 20036
202-5BB6254 (PHONE)
202-586603B (FAAr
E-MAIL. POLICY@NTHP.ORC
TAMAR I_. OSTERMAN
DIRECTOR OF G.OERNMENI AFFAIRS
EDITOR
STAFF WRRERs:
CARL WOLF, DAN COSTELLO. LAURA NELSON
(U1 I QC8. PRESERVATION ADVOCATE NEWS
.•� 13,13
65-21-98 03: 13 RECEIVED FROM: p'04
_ - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
_ Office of Community Planning and Development
• J
�r
1998
Office of Environment and Energy
CITYOF- U\QLMTA
1 PLAP,iJ'NG DEPARTMENT
Historic Preservation
in Housing
and Community
Development
Linking Historic
Preservation to
Community
Development Block
Grant Objectives
A Guide for Local Government
Officials and Program Managers
LINKING HISTORIC PRESERVATION
TO COMMANITY DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT OBJECTIVES
Eligible activities under the CDBG program and how
conservation
historic preservation can be coordinated with community
revitalization, economic development and energy
Prepared by -
Margaret E. Sweeney
Division
Environment Management
Office of Environment and Energy
September 1991
132
Table of Contents
!,acre_
i
Introduction
Part I. ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES IN GENERAL ................ 1
Requirements ...................................... 1
Meeting National objectives 2
Historic Properties, Definition 2
Information for Local Program Staff ................
LEADERSHIP FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION - A SELF ANALYSIS 9
FORLOCAL EXECUTIVES ...........................
Part II. SPECIFIC ELIGIBLE CDBG ACTIVITIES WHICH MAY.... 4
SUPPORT HISTORIC PRESERVATION .............
4
..........
Planning ...........................................
5
Historic Preservation .............•• ..' ..•.
5
Development Activities ...................•
5
Economic
Administrative Costs ......................
6
.•.•
Engineering and Design Costs ......••••-••::::::.,..
6
Consultant Services ...............................
6
Acquisition ... ........................
7
Clearance Activities ......................... ......
7
Site Preparation............................
7
7
Property Rehabilitation ..........................• .•
Property Disposition .......................••••.
8
Code Enforcement ... •......................... -.•
8
Public Facilities and Improvements ........:::::::::
9
Utilities .................................
9
Activities by Subrecipients ....................••.
9
Technical Assistance ............................
Payment of the non -Federal share required in
9
connection with a Federal grant-in-aid program .
133
LINKING HISTORIC
BLOCK PRESERVATION TO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Introduction
This Guide illustrates the various methods by which historic
preservation can be linked to other eligible activity under the
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. The
publication focuses on the broad range of historic preservation
activity that may be assisted under the CDBG program, not only to
to use them in romting
save historic
structures
but
revitalization andptheoconservationcof
development,neighborhood
energy resources as well.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
authorized by Title I of the Housing and Community Development
Act of 1974, as amended (42 U.S.C. 5301) provides significant
resources and maximum discretion to local officials for shaping
local programs to meet important objectives in community
development. Historic preservation is one of the national,
objectives that can be an important local objective as well.
It is a specific "eligible activity" under HUD program
regulations 24 CFR Part 570. Projects designed for the
preservation of specific properties may be undertaken.
However, community officials who wish to make the most of
their CDBG grants will find a number of ways by which historic
preservation can be linked to their ruder commutydevelopment
ty
and revitalization objectives. By p planning,
which develops historic plans may selectively implement. them
through other CDBG activities designed for other objectives.
Individual, specifically designed, historic
apreservation
re open foraprojects
may be undertaken, but ample opportunities
comprehensive approach.
Hopefully, this guide will prove useful in planning CDBG
projects - whether the community wishes to undertake historic
preservation projects as a special type program or wishes to
include preservation strategies in its other priority CDBG
projects.
134
Part I
ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES IN GENERAL
Generally, historic preservation activity will concentrate
on rehabilitation, preservation and selective restoration of
public or privately owned properties. However, preservation
activities may be coordinated with new construction as well as
with economic development, energy conservation and other
objectives in a community's CDBG program.
Requirements
Assisted preservation activities, like all CDBG activity,
must meet the primary objective of Title I: "the development of
viable urban communities, by providing decent housing and a
suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities,
principally for persons of low -and moderate -income" (Section
101(c)).
In addition, all activities in a community's CDBG program
must either:
give maximum feasible priority to activities which will
principally benefit low -and moderate -income persons (at
least in proportion to their share of the population in
the area which will be served by the particular
activity), or
aid in the prevention or elimination of slums and
blight.
CDBG funds also may be used for activities which the
grantee certifies are designed to meet other community
needs which have a particular urgency (provided other
resources are not available for this purpose and the
buildings involved are not to be used for the general
conduct of government). Such needs may arise because
existing conditions pose a serious and immediate threat
to community health or welfare. (See Section
104(b)(3), Title I.)
Meeting National Obiectives
All CDBG assisted historic preservation activities must meet
one of these national objectives and there are a number of ways
to do so. For example, the preservation of a commericial
structure by a small community may result inthe creation of jobs
at least 51 percent of which are for low and moderate income
persons, or the preservation of structures by an entitlement
community may provide services to residents of a defined area
135
2
with at least 51 percent low and moderate income persons.
Another way to meet the national objectives is to select
preservation activities within designated slum or blighted areas
hich qualify for assistance. Historic preservation may also be
conducted outside a slum or blighted area as part of activities
designed to eliminate specific conditions of blight or physical
decay on a spot basis. In such cases where residential
rehabilitation is for other than low and moderate income
households, the eligible activity is limited to the correction of
specific conditions detrimental to public health and safety. The
standards for meeting the national objectives are set forth in
detail at 24 CFR 570.208.
For the CDBG Entitlement Programs, at least 70 percent of
CDBG funds and any Section 108 loan funds must be used to
benefit low -and moderate -income persons for a period of 1,
2, or 3 years as specified by the grantee.
Small communities that receive CDBG funding through a State -
administered program are advised that, in addition to legal
eligibility, their proposed activities may have to meet
priorities established for the State's program.
Historic Properties. Definition
For Title I purposes, properties that qualify as historic
properties are landmarks, districts, sites, buildings„ structures
or objectives which:
o are listed in or eligible for listing in the National
Register of Historic Places, or
o are certified as historic properties by the Secretary
of the Interior for purposes of the Economic Recovery
Tax Act or related Federal tax laws, or
o are listed in a State or local inventory of historic
places, or
o are designated by State law or local ordinances as a
State or local landmark or historic district.
Information for Local Program Staff
Local officials who wish to examine the potential for
historic preservation activities in their community may wish to
review the details of Part II here or refer that listing to their
planning and CDBG program staff.
136
LEADERSHIP FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION - A SELF ANALYSIS FOR LOCAL ERECUTIVFS
Is my community an important part of America? Is its history a real part. of
American history?
How many CDBG projects have we undertaken in the past 5 years?
Did they include economic development? Neighborhood improvement?
Rehabilitation of residential buildings? Commercial buildings?
How many of our projects included historic preservation? Reuse of older
structures?
How many projects could have involved historic preservation? But didn't?
Does my community contain historic property?
Those generally recognized and commended?
Others not recognized, possibly in danger of neglect and decay?
Have we recognized as historic the resources and properties that represent
the contributions of minority and ethnic groups to our community?
Does my community contain neighborhoods or buildings in danger of
deterioration?
School buildings, commercial or industrial buildings that are vacant or
abandoned? Do we think of these as historic? Whose reuse could help turn
things around?
Have I encouraged a concerted effort to rehabilitate these properties and
convert them to a new economic use?
Does the community have a handle on the extent to which private properties
have been declared historic?
Could the community link and encourage private efforts to our goals for
community improvement and economic development?
Would additional rehab in concentrated areas promote more economic
development? bbre jobs? Improved tax base? Enhance community pride?
Do I regard Historic Preservation as a nuisance? Not relevant to my
community? A potential basis for community revitalization?
Is preservation an object of our planning? I£ not, why not? Do we have a
historic commission? If not, is one feasible? Should we be surveying our
community to identify historic properties and the potential for making good
use of them?
Do I or my staff have a good awareness of all the eligible activities under
the CDBG program? And.how we may link preservation to our other program goals
and objectives?
• 137
4
Part II
SPECIFIC ELIGIBLE CDBG ACTIVITIES WHICH MAY SUPPORT HISTORIC! PRESERVATIOIT
Outlined below are eligible CDBG activities to which
historic preservation may be linked, or which may be used :in
support of preservation objectives, provided they meet all
applicable program requirements. Heading numbers refer to the
CDBG regulations, 24 CFR Part 570 (September 6, 1988).
Planning (570.205)
The process of community planning affords a splendid
opportunity to formulate community goals and objectives and to
include strategies for preservation with plans designed to meet
other purposes. Planning activities are presumed to meet the
national objectives (page 1). Other CDBG assisted historic
preservation activities must meet one of the objectives„ This
applies to both hard costs such as acquisition, rehabilitation or
preservation for example, and also to soft costs, other than
planning, such as the engineering and design costs related to
specific activity, and preservation counseling, advisory services
and inspections. Eligible activities include the preparation of
general development plans and plans for particular functions,
purposes or areas. Eligible activities include:
General Plans, including:
o Comprehensive plans, and community development: plans
including preservation elements;
o Functional plans for various purposes, including
housing, land use, economic development, open space,
and energy conservation, including historic
preservation elements;
o Data collection, studies, analysis and the preparation
of plans and implementing measures including budgets,
codes and ordinances;-
o Archeological surveys of CDBG project areas, including
a reconnaissance survey of a project site containing
valuable resources, or an intensive survey for fuller
examination of significant sites;
o Activities to enhance the community's capacity for
setting goals and objectives to meet needs, including
environmental and preservation concerns;
o Reasonable costs of general environmental studies and
historic preservation studies and resource surveys,
including:
environmental review and compliance with Section
106 of the National Historic Preservation Act,
where required by 24 CFR Part 58;
..v 138
5
Historic Preservation Plans, including:
o Preparation of a historic preservation plan for the
community, including plans for preserving historic
downtown areas or neighborhoods or for appropriate
reuse of their historic structures;
o Delineating historic districts, including reuse plans
and the preparation of ordinances and codes to assure
preservation of the districts; and
o Strategies
andogras implement to
These activities may include measured drawings, photographs
and other documentation of significant architectural and 'historic
data and of any building modifications or project mitigation.
These may be prepared as part of a preservation program or in
compliance with environmental review requirements.
Historic Preservation (570.202(d))
Historic preservation, including the rehabilitation,
Thi.s is
preservation or restoration of historic property.
the basic authorization for preservation but does not limit
the scope of other activities which may include or support
preservation.)
Economic Development Activities (5,70.203)
Economic development increasingly is a major objective in
CDBG programs. In this context, communities may perceive
effective ways to tie in preservation objectives with economic
development and attain the advantages of rehabilitating older
structures. Such approaches also provide job opportunities in
rehabilitation and preservation phases of work and secure the
long term benefits of reused buildings in areas of revitalization
and new endeavor. Eligible activities include:
o Acquisition, construction, reconstruction or
installation of commercial or industrial buildings,
structures, and other real property, equipment and
improvements, including railroad spurs or similar
improvements having historic values; and
o Assistance to private -for -profit -businesses, including
financial and technical assistance and involving
historic properties that are necessary or appropriate.
Administrative Costs (570.206)
O Costs of conducting preliminary
market needs (subject to HUD's
such costs); and
surveys and analysis of
program limitations on
139
1.1
o Costs of site and utility plans, narrative descriptions
of proposed development or rehabilitation, preliminary
cost estimates, urban design documentation, and "sketch
drawings", including preservation objectives and making
proposals compatible with historic settings.
Engineering and Design Costs (570.201 - 570.204).
o Feasibility studies to assess the condition of
structures, including historic structures, and the
economic feasibility of:
corrective techniques to overcome incompatible
alterations or deterioration which detract from
the historic character of structures;
adapting historic buildings to appropriate reuse;
o Designing improvements to the facade of structures,
including historic buildings and including schematic
drawings;
o Design costs for integrating historic facades into new
structures and land uses, with the advice of the State
Historic Preservation Officer or local historic
commission or advisory body;
o Designing the removal of architectural barriers in
structures which limit access for elderly or
handicapped persons; and
o Other engineering and design needed to preserve
historic properties.
Note: Such engineering and design activities and costs
are regarded as project costs, not as general
planning or administrative costs.
Consultant Services (570.200(d)).
o Obtaining professional assistance for program planning,
and preparing community development objectives,
including historic preservation, and securing other
general professional guidance for devising programs and
methods or schedules for implementing them, including
preservation elements.
Acquisition (570.201)
o Acquisition of properties, including historic
properties, in whole or in part by a public agency or.
private not -for -profit entity;
«.+J 1, 14 0
7
o Acquisition by purchase, lease,
of real property (including air
rights -of -way, easements, facade
interests);
donation, or otherwise,
rights, water rights,
easements and other
o Acquisition of buildings and improvements and their
relocation to other sites; e.g., for preservation or
reuse, as an alternative to demolition.
Clearance Activities (570.201(d)).
o Moving a historic structure from a project site or
other site to a location appropriate for its
preservation; and
o Clearing incompatible structures from a historic site
to highlight historic values or to provide for
compatible new development.
Site Preparation (570.201)
G Construction, reconstruction or installation of public
improvements, utilities, or facilities (other than
buildings) related to the redevelopment or reuse of
real property that is acquired or rehabilitated
pursuant to 570.701;
o Making improvements necessary to restore a property's
architectural or historic character.
Property Rehabilitation (570.202)
Rehabilitation constitutes a major area of opportunity for
including historic preservation in programs designed to
revitalize neighborhood and commercial areas and for encouraging
private sector involvement in community development and property
rehabilitation activities. Eligible activities include:
o The rehabilitation of:
eligible privately owned residential buildings and
improvements limited to facade and code
requirements.
public housing and other publicly owned
residential buildings and improvements; and
publicly owned nonresidential buildings and
improvements otherwise eligible for assistance.
o Activities to secure the retention and reuse of
historic structures, such as renovation of closed
school buildings for conversion to housing or reuse
facility, or to serve another public purpose;
91
o Energy system improvements or retrofitting, e.g.,, to
enhance the use and preservation of historic
structures; and
o Obtaining or conducting rehabilitation advisory
services, such as rehabilitation counseling, energy
auditing, preparation of work specifications,
inspections, and other advisory services to owners,
tenants, contractors and other entities participating
or seeking to participate in authorized rehabilitation
activities.
Property Disposition (570.201(b)).
o Sale, lease, donation, or otherwise, of any real
property acquired with CDBG funds, including
arrangements and restrictions to preserve historic
properties or to provide for appropriate reuse of
historic property.
Code Enforcement (570.202(c)).
o In deteriorating or deteriorated areas where such
enforcement together with public improvements,
rehabilitation and services to be provided, may be
expected to arrest the decline of the area.
Public Facilities and Improvements (570.201(c))
o Acquisition, construction, reconstruction,
rehabilitation or installation of eligible public
facilities and improvements, as in historic districts
or neighborhoods;
including design features and improvements which
promote energy efficiency; and
o Execution of architectural design features to enhance
or preserve the aesthetic quality of facilities and
improvements receiving CDBG assistance; i.e.,
decorative pavements, railings, sculptures, pools of
water and fountains, and other works of art (excluding
furniture and furnishings within buildings).
Removal of Architectural Barriers (570.201(k))
Special projects directed to the removal of material and
architectural barriers which restrict the mobility and
accessibility of elderly or handicapped persons to publicly
owned or privately owned buildings, facilities, and
improvements, including those which are historic.
142
PJ
Utilities (570.201(1))
o Use of CDBG funds to acquire, construct, reconstruct,
rehabilitate, or install the distribution lines and
facilities of privately owned utilities, includingthe
placing underground of new and existing distribution
facilities and lines, as in a historic district.
Activities by Subrecipients (570.204(c))
o Recipient may grant or loan CDBG funds to subrecipients
for the conduct of eligible activities, including all
historic preservation activities identified in this
publication. For example: to neighborhood -based
nonprofit organizations, Section 301(d) small business
investment companies or local development corporations
to carry out neighborhood revitalization, community
economic development or energy conservation projects.
Such activities may include preservation activity or
support preservation objectives.
Technical Assistance (570.201 - 206 - (an allowable
administrative cost))
o Obtaining or providing assistance for planning,
developing and administering historic preservation
activities;
o Conducting local education and information programs
concerning historic preservation, including
encouragement of private initiatives through private
investment and the use of available tax incentives and
other resources;
o The conduct of workshops on preservation, e.g., facade
treatment of historic storefronts or seminars on
historic district design for local merchants,
architects, planners and community organizations; and
o Training conferences for municipal and community
leaders for encouraging preservation strategies and
techniques for implementing them.
al ;rant -in -aid program (570.201(g))
o CDBG funds may be used for the payment of the non -
Federal share required under Federal grant-in-aid
programs, provided:
O the activities are part of CD90 activities, and
o they are activities otherwise eligible for CDBG
assistance.
143
10
o Grant-in-aid programs include the Department of the
Interior's historic preservation grant program; CDBG
funds may be used to make up the local matching
requirement of the DOI program.
C U.S. Government Printing Office : 1991-312-428/41004
kwy
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF THE CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION • WINTERJSPRING I998
In This Issue
Financial Incentives
for Historic
Preservation
P. I
Mvths About the
Tax Credits
p. 2
Tax Incentives-
3-Way Partnership
p. 3
Historic Gaslamp
Quarter's
Renaissance
p. 4
Filing the
Application
p. 5
Mills Act
A California
Preservation
Incentive Program
p. 7
Preservation
Calendar
p. 8
Financial Incentives for Historic Preservation
The Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program is one of the
nation's most successful and cost-effective community revitalization programs.
The program fosters private sector rehabilitation of historic buildings and
promotes economic revitalization. It also provides a strong alternative to
government ownership and management of such historic properties. The Federal
Historic Preservation Tax Incentives are available for buildings that are National
Historic Landmarks, that are listed in the National Register, and that contribute
to National Register Historic Districts and certain local historic districts. Proper-
ties must be income -producing and must be rehabilitated according to standards
set by the Secretary of the Interior.
Since 1976, the Historic Preservation Tax Incentives have produced the
following benefits for the nation:
• More than 27,000 historic properties have been rehabilitated and saved
• The tax incentives have stimulated private rehabilitation of over $18 billion
• More than 149,000 housing units rehabilitated and 75.000 housing units
created, of which over 30,000 are low and moderate -income units.
The Historic Preservation Tax Incentives have proven an invaluable tool in
revitalizing communities and preserving the historic places that give cities,
towns, and rural areas their special character. The Historic Preservation Tax
Incentives generate jobs, both during the construction phase and in the spin-off
effects of increased earning and consumption. Rehabilitation of historic build-
ings attracts new private investment to the historic core of cities and towns and
is crucial to the long-term economic health of many communities. Fnhanced
property values generated by the Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program
result in augmented revenues for local and state government through increased
property, business, and income taxes. Historic Preservation Tax Incentives also
create moderate and low-income housing in historic buildings. The various
financial incentives may be used together to minimize on rehabilitation costs.
In California, the Mills Act can be linked with federal tax incentives provided
by the Tax Reform Act of 1986. Federal affordable housing tax credits may
also be utilized with these incentives.
One part of the Tax Reform Act of 1986 is the 20% investment tax credit for
the certified rehabilitation of a certified historic building. The Federal historic
preservation tax incentives program (the 20% credit) is jointly administered by
the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Department of the Treasury. The
National Park Service (NPS) acts on behalf of the Secretary of the Interior, in
partnership with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) in each State.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) acts on behalf of the Secretary of the
Cont d on p. 2
0*11 14c
2
G/ 4"wea HERITAGE
Myths About the Tax Credit
by
Cherilyn Widell, State Historic Preservation Officer
"Regardless of whatever other attributes it might have, a historic building is ultimately real estate. Its economic capacity,
measures of return, value as an asset, and attractiveness as an investment are all going to be calculated by investors, bankers,
and developers in the same fashion as any other parcel of real estate."
—Donovan Rypkema, Real Estate Services Group, Washington, D.C.
How much do you know about the economics of
historic preservation in California? How do you
answer the popular misconception that it always
costs more to rehabilitate an old building than build
a new one? Can you explain how the 20% Rehabili-
tation Federal Tax Credit for historic properties
works and what a developer needs to qualify?
The answers to these questions are not hard. But,
rarely are economic development and historic
preservation linked in the minds of key decisions
makers. There must be a deliberate effort in a
community to present the facts that show — historic
preservation is good business! This issue of Califor-
nia Heritage is designed to give you the basic
information on an underutilized tool in California -
the 20% Rehabilitation Federal Tax Credit for
historic buildings.
Myth #1 "The tax credit for rehabilitating old
buildings was eliminated in the 1980's."
In 1986 the tax law changed the percentage and
applicability of the tax credit, but it remains one of
the very few real estate tax credits available.
Myth #2 "Only big developers and large
projects can use the tax credit:'
This program works well for both large and small
rehabilitation projects. According to the National
Park Service 80%c of all historic rehabilitation tax
credit projects cost less than $500.000, and nearly
half cost less than $100.000.
Myth #3 "The design standards required by the
National Park Service are unreasonable and
expensive."
The Secretary of Interior Standards and Guide-
lines for Rehabilitation are flexible. A wide range of
profitable projects, from turning factories into
housing and train sheds into hotels and malls, have
successfully used the guidelines. However, the
Cont'd from p. 1
Treasury. Certification requests (requests for ap-
proval for a taxpayer to receive these benefits) are
made to the National Park Service through the
appropriate State Historic Preservation Officer
(SHPO). Comments by the SHPO on certification
requests are fully considered by the NPS. However
approval of projects undertaken for the 2017( tax
credit is conveyed onh, in writing by duly autho-
rized officials of the National Park Service.
guidelines do not permit wholesale gutting of
historic buildings and it is best to consult them
during the earliest stages of project design.
Myth #4 "It costs more to rehabilitate an old
building than to build a new one."
According to The Economics of Historic Preser-
vation, "... if no demolition is required, a major
commercial rehabilitation will cost from 12 per cent
less to 9 per cent more than the cost of comparable
new construction with the typical rehabilitation
cost being about 4 per cent below new construc-
tion. If new construction would incur the cost of
razing an existing building, cost savings from
rehabilitation should range from 3 to 16 per
cent."
Myth #5 "If the credit is such a good thing, why
doesn't my local redevelopment agency or Cham-
ber of Commerce know about it ?"
Please see the answers to Myths #1, 2, 3, and 4
and ask yourself when was the last time the land-
marks commission or local preservation organiza-
tion in your community presented this information
to them.
Myth #6 "The tax credit isn't worth all the
trouble to apply to the SHPO for the Federal
Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program."
The tax credit is a real credit, not a deduction. The
program offers the applicant up to 90% of federal
income tax liability and is worth 20% of the total
cost of rehabilitating the interior and exterior of an
historic building. Architectural and engineering
design are also eligible as "soft" costs. If the tax
credit is not used in one year it can be carried back
three years or forward ten years and applied to past
and future federal income tax liability. Please note:
If you hear this myth, you can he sure that the
speaker has never spoken with his or her accountant.
The 20% rehabilitation tax credit applies to any
project that the Secretary of the Interior designates a
certified rehabilitation of a certified historic struc-
ture. The 20% credit is available for properties
rehabilitated for commercial, industrial, agricultural.
or rental residential purposes, but it is not available
for properties used exclusively as the owner's
private residence.
Over a half a billion dollars of private investment
e44ruteer HERITAGE
in California's historic buildings is due in a large
part to this program. Preservation tax incentives
used on under-utilized or abandoned hotels, offices,
stores, schools, warehouses, and factories give new
uses that maintain their historic character and
revitalize the property. The Pump House in Walnut
Grove is an example of such a project. Listed on the
National Register on March 22, 1990, as a contrmu-
tor to the Japanese/American Historic District in
Walnut Grove, Sacramento County, the project used
investment tax credits to aid in rehabilitating the
building into a commercial enterprise . The
Harrison Hotel in Oakland and the St. Andrews
Court in Los Angeles are examples of tax incen-
tive projects that rehabilitated buildings into low-
income and moderate affordable housing. Non-
profits, such as affordable housing organizations,
have also taken advantage of the tax incentives. The
Thoreau Center for Sustainability in the San
Francisco Presidio, a former U.S. Army base, is
good model of how a for -profit limited partnership
can be established to provide new facilities for non-
profits.
The National Park Service is co -sponsoring a
national conference on using Historic Preserva-
tion Tax Incentives to rehabilitate historic proper-
ties. The conference will be April 27-28,1998, at
the Fairmount Hotel in San Francisco, CA.
Registration fees are $425 ($285 non-profit) post-
marked by April 1, 1998. See Preservation Calen-
dar for more details.
A.
Above: The Pump House Project, Walnut Grove,
before rehabilitation.
Right: The Pump House Project, after
rehabilitation as a commercial rental.
Tax Incentives—
3-Way Partnership
The Federal historic preservation tax, incentives
program is a partnership among the National Park
Service (NPS), the State Historic Preservation
Officer (SHPO), and the Internal Revenue Service
(IRS). Each plays an important role.
SHPO
-Serves as first point of contact for property
owners.
-Provides application forms, regulations, and other
program information.
-Maintains complete records of the State's build-
ings and districts listed in the National Register of
Historic Places, as well as State and local districts
that may qualify as registered historic districts.
-Assists anyone wishing to list a building or a
district in the National Register of Historic Places.
-Provides technical assistance and literature on
appropriate rehabilitation treatments.
-Advises owners on their applications and makes
site visits on occasion to assist owners.
-Makes certification recommendations to the NPS.
NPS
-Reviews all applications for conformance to the
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilita-
non.
-Issues all certification decisions (approvals or
denials) in writing.
-Transmits copies of all decisions to the IRS.
-Develops and publishes program regulations,
the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for
Rehabilitation, the Historic Preservation Certifica-
tion Application, and information on rehabilita-
tion treatments.
Z 4..». t.:.
Cont'd on p. a
'/7
�1
eQCC�NCKl2 HJ1GMTAGE
IRS
-Publishes regulations governing which rehabilita-
tion expenses qualify, the time periods for incurring
expenses, the tax consequences of certification
decisions by NPS, and all other procedural and legal
matters concerning both the 20% and the 10%
rehabilitation tax credits.
-Answers public inquiries concerning legal and
financial aspects of the Rehabilitation Tax Credit
program, and publishes the audit guide, Market
Segment Specialization Program: Rehabilitation Tax
Credit, to assist owners.
-insures that only parties eligible for the rehabili-
tation tax credits utilize them.
The Tax Certification Program for the Office of
Historic Preservation is administered by Senior
Restoration Architect, Steade R. Craigo, AIA. If you
have questions regarding the tax program please call
(916) 653-6624 and ask for the Preservation Tar
Incentivesfor Historic Buildings booklet.
The National Park Service provided much of the
above information. For further information on the
Tax Credit see their website at http11www2.cr.nps.
gov1tps1taYlhrochure2.htm or www.ccnps.gov. _
Historic Gaslamp Quarter's Renaissance
Use of Historic Preservation Tax Incentives
by
Wayne Donaldson FAIA, Architect
Marie Burke Lia, Attorney at Law
The San Diego Gaslamp Quarter was placed on
the National Register of Historic Places on May 23,
1980 and there is no doubt that its success as an
economically viable historic district can be partially
attributed to the availability of historic preservation
tax incentives. The 162 block, 125 building historic
district is the largest user of the investment tax
credits in the country. These incentives consist of
investment tax credits for rehabilitation expenditures
and charitable contribution deductions for the
granting of architectural facade easements. The tax
credits were created by 1976 federal tax legislation
but were substantially improved in 1981. The
facade easement deduction was created by 1980
legislation. Gaslamp couldn't have been born at a
more propitious time and the story only gets better.
From 1981 to 1985, the Economic Recovery Tax
Act had directly and indirectly contributed to
approximately $153 million in completed and
pending private investment in the general downtown
area of San Diego including the Gaslamp Historic
District through the rehabilitation of historic proper-
ties. Much of this investment would not have
occurred without the inducement of the Federal tax
incentive program. In addition, it is estimated that
only about $5 million in rehabilitation of historic
properties took place in the years after the passage
of 1976 Tax Act and before the adoption of the 1981
Economic Recovery Tax Act. Also at this time, it
was estimated that his private investment in historic
rehabilitation had generated well in excess of 2,000
construction jobs and probably an equal number of
permanent jobs.
In 1985, when the Treasury Department recom-
mended the appeal of the 15, 20, and 25 percent
investment tax credits established by the 1981
Economic Recovery Tax Act, hundreds of local San
Diego citizens appealed to the President.
In 1985 a four block, destination retail complex,
Horton Plaza, opened just west of the Gaslarrtp and
a few years later, San Diego's award winning
Convention Center opened on the south. The City's
central business core had always been located just
north of Quarter. The Horton Plaza garage provided
a safe parking location for the first brave suburban
souls to venture into the Quarter at night once the
first trendy restaurants and night clubs opened.
Each successful restaurant or night club begot more
and soon there was the critical mass necessary to
establish a vibrant evening entertainment district.
In the meantime. Gaslamp dodged a bullet in
terms of the tax incentives. The Tax Reform Act of
1986 reduced the percentage of expenditures
eligible for rehabilitation credits and extended the
depreciation period. But not for Gaslamp, ins
benefits were grand fathered in by special legisla-
tion. Its rehabilitation projects still qualify for 25%
tax credits and its properties still enjoy a 19 year
depreciation period.
These tax incentives are extremely important to
local and state governments in that they provide a
needed economic incentive for reinvestment in
existing older central downtown areas. This tar-
geted reinvestment reinforces other important local,
state and federal policies. Recycling older buildings
saves energy. socially and economically revitalizes
existing urban neighborhoods, and reduces urban
sprawl.This reinvestment constitutes significant
HERITAGE
5
savings in infrastructure and operation costs which
would otherwise have to be provided for or assumed
by local governments.
These tax act projects provide needed employment
opportunities for skilled and unskilled labor and
provide badly needed, increased tax revenues for
local and state governments. The best part of this is
that all of this is accomplished through private
sector investments. These factors make Gaslamp
one of the most tax -advantaged investments around.
To date, over 42 buildings within the greater San
Diego downtown have used the investment tax
credits. Seventeen buildings in Gaslamp have
completed certified historic rehabilitations and nine
have granted architectural facade easements. It is
estimated that over $300 million in private invest-
ment utilizing the investment tax credits have
occurred downtown through the rehabilitation of
historic properties. But these numbers don't tell the
whole story. Other buildings, both contributors and
non -contributors to the Gaslamp District, have been
improved and rehabilitated because of the economic
success of downtown. While these latter rehabilita-
tions would not have qualified for tax credits
because of the minimal amount of rehabilitation
expenditures required, their rehabilitation was
governed by the District's Planned District Ordi-
nance, which was approved as part of the District's
certification process. Therefore, the turn of the
century architectural ambiance of the district has
been preserved under the Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation.
It is clear that the historic preservation tax incen-
tives brought about the first significant private
investment in the District since before World War II
and that these incentives continue to draw new
private investment. With the combination of tax
advantage investment opportunities and a booming
retail and entertainment center, the Historic
Gaslamp District is hard to beat.
Milford Wayne Donaldson, FAIA, of San Diego, is
a restoration architect and contractor. He is a
member of the State Historical Building Saf'eq
Board, a past member of the State Historical
Resources Commission, and past -president of the
California Preservation Foundation.
Marie Burke LIA, is a land use attorney specializ-
ing in historic properties. She has assisted more
than one hundred historic property owners, public
and private, in achieving their objectives under the
regulatory supervision of local, state and federal
agencies.
Historic Gaslamp District. San Diego
Photo by Milford Wayne Donaldson
Filing the Application
by
Maryln Lortie
Filing the Part One — Some Common Problems
Getting your tax certification application smoothly
through the process will help get your project into
service, and profitability, as quickly as possible.
The application consists of three parts — Part 1 is
an Evaluation of Significance: Part 2 is a Descrip-
tion of the Rehabilitation; and Part 3 is a Request for
Certification of Completed Work. The mechanics of
the process involve sending two sets of fully com-
pleted applications with two sets of color photos
showine the interior and the exterior of the building.
Two sets of photos are needed for each Part 1. Part 2
and Part 3. Although it seems unnecessarily burden-
some, there really is a reason why two sets of
application materials are required. Tax credit
applications are reviewed twice — once b:y the SHPO
and again by the National Park Service. One set of
materials is sent on to the NPS and the other re-
tained by the SHPO.
Don't overlook the guidance in the blue form
itself. The Certification Application has very helpful
141
0
&i6ovezz HERITAGE
and thorough instructions, and examples of how to
complete the various sections.
The usual purpose of the Part 1 is to establish that
a building is either a contributor to a listed National
Register district or is individually eligible for listing.
No Part I is required for a property that is already
individually listed.
Buildings that are named as contributors in a
National Register district application are relatively
easy to document. In most
cases no additional research
is necessary although the
applicant should consult the
district nomination, available
at a regional information
center. The Part I should
fully describe the building,
both exterior and interior,
and show that it basically
retains its historic appearance
during the district's period of
significance. The applicant
should also point out how the
building relates to the signifi-
cance of the district as a
whole. For example, if the
district were listed because of
its historic importance as the
commercial center of a
community, a building's
longtime use as a commercial
building during the period of
significance would establish
that connection.
Similarly, if the district
were listed because of its
architectural qualities, the
applicant should call out the
important architectural
aspects of the building that
are consistent with the
cance as that required in a National Register nomi-
nation.
Promptly completing the Tax Certification appli-
cation can be; critical. Recent rulings by the Internal
Revenue Service require that an owner must have
submitted the Part 1 before a rehabilitated building
is placed into service. Owners who wait to file Part
1 until after all work is complete and the building is
placed in service will not qualify for the 20% credit
unless the building is already
individually listed in the
Register.
And in general, it is much
better to apply for the tax
certification before the
rehabilitation. The OHP can
Berkeley City Club, 2315 DurantAv
Berkeley. CA Julia Morgan, Architect,
California Preservation Foundation
district's character. The Secretary of the Interior,
with standards for virtually everything, has created
Standards for Evaluating Significance within
Registered Historic Districts: "A building contribut-
ing to the historic significance of a district is one
which by location, design, setting, materials, work-
manship, feeling and association adds to the
district's sense of time and place and historical
development."
When a building is not within a listed district the
task is more complex and may require hiring a
professional historian or architectural historian. For
a preliminary determination for individual listing,
the Part 1 must contain essentially the same docu-
mentation of the property's integrity and signifi-
provide guidance, and help
to insure that the project
meets the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards. Since
extensive pre -rehab photos
are required of both the
building's interior and
exterior, owners may not
have the necessary documen-
tation after the project is
complete.
The tax credit needs to be
claimed for the tax year that
the building is placed into
service. An owner can go
back and make a claim
retroactively for a qualified
rehab that took place in the
past, but the tax year must be
an "open" one. "Open" years
e, are usually the three years
1927 following the date a tax
return is due. For the tax year
1996. tax returns are: due on
April 15, 1997. 1996 tax
returns may be amended until April 15, 2000.
While OHP staff can provide information regard-
ing National Register eligibility and the Secretary of
the Interior's Standards, specific tax questions
should be addressed to a qualified tax professional
or the Internal Revenue Service. Thomas Gavin, the
IRS National Coordinator for the Historic Rehabili-
tation Tax Credit and Low Income Housing Credit,
can be reached at (215) 597-2145, Ext. 136.
Marvin Lortie is an historian with the registration
programs section of the Office of Historic Preserva-
tion. Marvin may be reached at (916) 653-8911 or
by e-mail at calshpo.maryln@quiknet.com.
I
e440wee4 HERITAGE,
F
Mills Act
A California Preservation Incentive Program
by
Eugene Itogawa
Economic incentives contribute to the preservation
of residential neighborhoods and the revitalization of
downtown commercial districts. The Mills Act is the
single most important economic incentive program
available in California for use by private property
owners of qualified historic buildings. Owner -
occupied single family residences and income
producing commercial properties may qualify for the
Mills Act program.
Property owners of historic buildings may qualify
for property tax relief if they pledge to rehabilitate
and maintain the historical and architectural charac-
ter of their properties for at least a ten year period.
Mills Act participants may realize a property tax
saving of approximately 50% each year for newly
improved or purchased older historic properties.
County Assessors are required to calculate the
assessed value of the property tax savings for Mill
Act properties on the capitalization of income
method rather than on market value.
The Mills Act is a permissive program subject to
approval and adoption by city and county govern-
ments. California's four largest cities (Los Angeles,
San Diego, San Francisco, and San Jose) have
instituted Mills Act programs. The Mills Act pro-
vides local governments the flexibility to design
preservation programs to accommodate specific
community needs and priorities for rehabilitating
entire neighborhoods, encouraging seismic safety
programs, contributing to affordable housing,
promoting heritage tourism, or fostering pride of
ownership.
A formal agreement, generally known as a. Mills
Act contract, is executed between the local govem-
ment and the property owner for a minimum ten
year term. Contracts are automatically renewed each
year and are transferred to new owners when the
property is sold. Property owners agree to protect,
preserve, and maintain the property in accordance
with specific historic preservation standards and
conditions identified in the contracts. Periodic
inspections of the property by city or county offi-
cials ensure proper maintenance of the property.
Local authorities may impose penalties for breach of
contract or failure to protect the historic property.
The contract is binding to all owners during the
contract period.
A qualified historic property is a property listed on
any official federal, state, county, or city register,
including the National Register of Historic ]Places,
the California Register of Historical Resources, the
California Historical Landmarks, the State Points of
Historical Interest, local landmarks, and local
surveys listings.
The Office of Historic Preservation maintains a
current list of cities and counties which have
adopted the Mills Act and copies of successful Mills
Act ordinances, resolutions, and contract agree-
ments. For further information, contact Eugene
Itogawa, Office of Historic Preservation, at (916)
653-8936 or email colslipo@quiknet.com.
-The Society for California Archaeology (SCA) sponsors Archaeology Week to attract atten-
tion to our archaeological and historical heritage. The theme for Archaeology Week 1998 is
"Piecing Together California's Past" Archaeology Week will be held from May 10 to May IT
• The Office of Historic Preservation is developing an implementation plan for the California
Register. For more information contact staff Historian 1, Jenan Saunders (916) 653-9432 or
email calshpo.jenari@quiknet.com.
• The State Historic Preservation Plan, Fogging a Future With a Past, The Comprehensive
Statewide Historic Preservation Plan for California. are available from OHP at (916) 653-6624.
eato"`Kn
HERII'II GL
Published quarterly by the California
State Parks Office of Historic
Preservation, P.O. Box 942896,
Sacramento, CA 94296-000I, (916)
653-6624. Its purpose is to keep
interested parties abreast of
developments in historic preservation.
Pete Wilson
Governor
Douglas P. Wheeler
Secretary for Resources
Patricia J. Megason
Interim Director,
California State Parks
Cherilyn Widell
State Historic Preservation Officer
John Thomas
Editor
Persons or organizations wishing
to be removed from this mailing list
should notify the OHP at (916)
653-6624. Please notify us of address
corrections.
To list your event in California
Heritage, please send a brief
description and phone number.
Notices should be received at least
12 weeks in advance. Comments,
photos, and articles about local
heritage preservation are welcomed.
eulrsx (HERITAGE
Office of Historic Preservation
P. O. Box 942896
Sacramento, CA 94296-0001
e-mail calshpogquiknet.com.
4
CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS.
--- — i - i
.� ii
,
This publication is financed in part with federal funds from the National Park
Service, Department of the Interior, under the National Historic Preservation Act of
1966, as amended and administered by the California Office of Historic Preservation.
The contents and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the
Department of the Interior, nor does the mention of trade names or commercial
products constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Department of the
Interior.
Regulations of the Department of the Interior strictly prohibit unlawful
discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, or handicap. Any
person who believes they have been discriminated against in any program, activity,
or facility operated by a recipient of federal assistance should write to:
Director, Equal Opportunity Program
U.S. Department of the Interior
.National Park Service
Box 37127
Washington, DC 20013-7127
April 8-11, 1998. Society for California Archaeology Annual Meeting, San
Diego, CA. For more information visit SCA homepage: http://wwm,.scanet.org/
April 15-19, 1998. The Society of Architectural Historians Annual Meeting,
Biltmore Hotel, Los Angeles, CA. Homepage: www.sah.org/acts.him!
April 27-28: National Park Service National Conference: Tax Lncentives
for Developing Historic Properties, Fairmont Hotel San Francisco, 202-
343-1185 or e-mail brooks.prueher@nps.gov for more information and a
registration brochure.
May 7-10, 1998. California Preservation Conference, Berkeley,CA. "New
Perspectives on Preservation." For more information call Jeff Eiehenfield at
CPF (510) 763-0972 or visit the conference website at: http://w w.jsj7ub.com/
jsp/preserve/cpf. html.
May 16, 1998. Coachella Valley Archaeological Society 2nd Annual Sympo-
sium On the Archaeology of the Coachella Vall ' , -bra
Springs, CA. Desert Museum's Annenberg Theatcllib'rY` tfa l 17191,f10n-
please contact Leslie Mouriquand (760) 398-15tsr.
0 A
LESLIE MOURIOUAND
ASSOCIATE PLANNER
CITY OF LA OUINTA
78-495 CALLE TAMPICO
PO BOX 1504
LA OUINTA CA 92253-1504
Sri
Archaeological Investigations for the
Village on the Green Project,
La Quinta, California
Prepared for:
Catellus Residential Group
5 Park Plaza, Suite 400
Irvine, CA, 92714
Submitted to:
City of La Quinta
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
71
Y
Prepared by:
James Brock and Brenda D. Smith
With Contributions by:
Thomas A. Wake, James H. Toenjes, Owen K Davis,
Virginia S. Popper, and Steve L. Martin
June 1998 (Draft)
P.O. BOX 491, PIONEERTOWN, CA 92268-0491
Tel: (760) 228-1142 o Fax: (760) 3694002
E-mail: archadvgrp Asaol.corr_.f • �.,
Archaeological Investigations for the
Village on the Green Project,
La Quinta, California
Prepared for:
Catellus Residential Group
5 Park Plaza, Suite 400
Irvine, CA 92714
Submitted to:
City of La Quinta
78495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
Prepared by:
James Brock and Brenda D. Smith
With Contributions by:
Thomas A Wake, James H. Toenjes, Owen K. Davis,
Virginia S. Popper, and Steve L. Martin
June 1998 (Draft)
USGS Topographk Qmdrangle: La Quana, California
Aereege: 35.9
Key Words: La Quints; Tract 28601; Lake Cahuilla; Sites CA-RIV6059,
CAL-RIV6060, CA-RIV6092, LAQ3-H, and LAQ4-H
Cover: w"oolor by James H. Tomies of CA -RI V6059, Loan B, looking west
Archaeological Advisory Group
P.O. Box 491
Ploneertown, CA 92268-0491
Tel: (760) 228-1142 Fax: (760) 369-4002 Email: archadvgrp@aol.com
•,J
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Listof Figures .....................................................................
Listof Tables ......................................................................
Management Summary .....................................................
Introduction........................................................................
Setting ..........................................
... ****** ... ..... - ... "**'
Natural Setting .......................................................
Cultural Setting ......................................................
Research Design ................................................................
Methods...............................................................................
Fieldwork Techniques ..........................................
Laboratory Techniques ........................................
Findings: Fieldwork Details and General Findings .....
PhaseII ...................... .............................................
Limited Phase III ....................................................
Unit Descriptions ...................................................
CA-RIV-6059 ..............................................
CA-RIV-6060 ..............................................
CA-RIV-6092.............................................
Feature Descriptions ............................................
CA-RIV-6059 .............................................
CA-RIV-6060 .............................................
Findings: Analysis of Recovered Material .....................
Genera...................................................................
CA-RIV-6059 .........................................................
Radiocarbon Dating .................................
Macrobotanical Results ...........................
Pollen Results ............................................
Faunal Material .........................................
Ground Stone ............................................
Bead............................................................
Chipped Stone ...........................................
Thermally Affected Rock ........................
Ceramics.....................................................
BurnedClay ...............................................
Consideration of Clay Uses ................
Other Materials .........................................
CA-RIV-6060 .........................................................
Radiocarbon Dating .................................
Floral Material ..........................................
Faunal Material .........................................
Ground Stone ............................................
Thermally Affected Rock ........................
Ceramics.....................................................
BurnedClay ...............................................
Other Materials .........................................
CA-RIV-6092 .........................................................
LAQ3-H ..................................................................
LAQ4-H ..................................................................
Discussion/Interpretation ................................................
General........................................... ... —**—
Consideration of Research Domains .................
ii
Pal
iii
iv
1
3
4
4
8
12
15
15
15
19
19
20
20
20
31
32
32
32
35
36
36
36
36
37
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42
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68
68
72
72
74
74
'6
76
76
76
76
88
88
88
89
89
89
90
90
90
90
91
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Management Considerations .........................
Site Evaluation .....................................
Recommendations ...............................
Acknowledgements ..........................................
References Cited ..............................................
Appendix 1: Personnel Qualifications ..........
Appendix 2: Results of Radiocarbon Dating
LIST OF FIGURES
1. General location of the study area......................................................................
2. Specific location of the study area......................................................................
3. Locations of backhoe trenches excavated..........................................................
4. View of backhoe work in progress..................................................................I...
5. Map of CA-RIV-6059............................................................................................
6. Map of CA-RIV-6060............................................................................................
7. Map of CA-RIV-6092............................................................................................
8. Map showing backhoe trenches at CA-RIV-6059............................................
9. Stratigraphic profile of Unit 1, CA-RIV-6059...................................................
10. View off Unit 3 at CA-RIV-6059, Locus B.......................................................
11. View of Unit 7 at CA-RIV-6059, Locus B.......................................................
12. Stratigraphic profile of Unit 7, CA-RIV-6059................................................
13. View of UUnit 4 at CA-RIV-6060........................................................................
14. View of Unit 1 at CA-RIV-6092........................................................................
15. Feature 2 at CA-RIV-6060.................................................................................
16. Pollen percentages for abundant types............................................................
17. Animal bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6059.............................................
18. Animal bone by wei t ) at CA-RIV-6059...............................................
19. Fish bone by count AS ) at CA-RIV-6059...................................................
20. Fish bone by weight (gm) at CA-RIV-6059.....................................................
21. Boneytail...............................................................................................................
22. Male razorback sucker........................................................................................
23. Reptile bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6059.............................................
24. Reptile bone by weight (m) at CA-RIV-6059...............................................
25. Mammal bone by count NISP) at CA-RIV-6059..........................................
26. Mammal bone by weight (gm) at CA-RIV-6059............................................
27. Olivella sp. spire -ground bead............................................................................
28. Obsidian pressure flakes from CA-RIV-6059, Locus A ................................
29. Desert side -notched point from CA-RIV-6059...............................................
30. Cottonwood triangular point from CA-RIV-6059, Locus B .........................
31. Animal bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6060.............................................
32. Animal bone by weight (g) at CA-RIV-6060...................................................
33. Fish bone by count (NISP)) at CA-RIV-6060....................................................
34. Fish bone by weight (g) at CA-RIV-6060........................................................
35. Mammal bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6060..........................................
36. Mammal bone by weight (g) at CA-RIV-6060................................................
iii
Pag:
96
96
97
97
97
107
108
Paj,,
5
6
16
16
21
22
23
24
28
28
30
30
33
33
34
41
46
46
53
53
54
54
64
64
66
66
69
69
71
71
78
78
81
81
87
87
�r mih��s
LIST OF TABLES
Pale
Table 1. Summary of trench data......................................................................................... 25
Table 2. Distribution of materials by weight for 3 sites .................................................... 36
Table 3. Radiocarbon dates from CA-RIV-6059............................................................... 37
Table 4. Proveniences for macrobotanicals from CA-RIV-6059.................................... 38
Table 5. Plant material from CA-RIV-6059....................................................................... 38
Table 6. Wood charcoal for CA-RIV-6059......................................................................... 38
Table7. Pollen counts............................................................................................................ 40
Table 8. Identified vertebrate species from CA-RIV-6059.............................................. 43
Table 9. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6059.................................................... 47
Table 10. Xyrauchen tetanus upper thoracic verterbral lengths ...................................... 58
Table 11. CA-RIV-6059, Unit 7, upper thoracic verterbal lengths ................................. 58
Table 12. Distribution of modified elements at CA-RIV-6059....................................... 62
Table 13. Results of XRF Studies for CA-RIV-6059........................................................ 70
Table 14. Obsidian hydration results for CA-RIV-6059................................................... 70
Table 15. Distribution of ceramics at CA-RIV-6059........................................................ 73
Table 16. Identified vertebrate species from CA-RIV-6060............................................ 77
Table 17. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6060.................................................. 79
Table 18. Gila elegans upper thoracic vertebral lengths ................................................... 83
Table 19. Gila elegans upper thoracic vertebral annuli .................................................... 83
Table 20. Distribution of modified elements at CA-RIV-6060....................................... 83
Table 21. Ceramics by weight and provenience at CA-RIV-6060.................................. 89
iv
U
MANAGEMENT SUMMARY
This report describes the results of Phase II (test excavation) and limited Phase III
(data recovery) research conducted on archaeological sites present at the proposed
Village on the Green project site in La Quinta, California. The planned
development is a City -sponsored, affordable housing project. The study area is a
35.9-acre property, Tract 28601, located at the northwest corner of the
intersection of Avenue 48 and Jefferson Street.
The initial Phase I archaeological survey of the property identified two prehistoric
sites, CA-RIV-6059 (LAQI) and CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2), along with two putative
historical refuse deposits, LAQ3-H and LAQ4-H (Demcak 1997). This study
evaluates the potential significance of these resources, along with an additional
prehistoric site identified during the present research, CA-RIV-6092 (LAQ5).
Specific locations of identified cultural resources have been intentionally omitted
from this report because the information is restricted.
The research conducted has indicated that CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2), LAQ3-H,
LAQ4-H, and CA-RIV-6092 (LAQ5), along with the southern portion of CA-
RIV-6059 (LAQI), are non -unique or insignificant due to their inability to provide
data to increase our knowledge of the prehistory and history of the area in a
substantial and meaningful way.
The northern part of site CA-RIV-6059, Locus B was found to contain a large,
deep, buried prehistoric occupation site. This site occupies 0.76 acre of the study
area. Its minimal depth below the ground surface is approximately 40 centimeters
and it goes over 2 meters in depth in some places. The site would have been near
the shoreline of the ancient Lake Cahuilla. The site contains rich evidence of
multiple Cahuilla habitations dating from at least as early as the AD 1300s to the
late AD 1600s. These occupations relate to more than one high stand of the lake.
This site is significant in that it is the best know and best preserved example of its
type and it contains a full spectrum of materials that are capable of addressing
numerous research questions. While most of the site, particularly the dense,
central portion, remains uninvestigated, it is clear that material consisting of a wide
range of ceramics, faunal remains (mammal, fish, reptile, and bird bone), burned
clay, charcoal, and stone tools, among other things, are present. Features such as
hearths and house circles are probably also present and discrete special activity
areas should be readily definable.
Because of the research potential of CA-RIV-6059, Locus B, along with its
substantial depth, thickness, and high density of material, it has been decided to
preserve the deposit in situ as park space.
1
Because systematic backhoe trenching across the project area was conducted as
part of the test excavation program, specifically to locate buried sites, it is unlikely
that any further sites of the caliber of CA-RIV-6059, Locus B will be discovered
during grading. To be sure, given the high density of prehistoric use of the area,
some additional material is likely to be encountered during grading. It is
recommended that archaeological monitoring be conducted for all rough grading
and major trenching for the project.
2 b<01
IIM Y:11711i011W,
This report presents the findings from archaeological testing and limited data recovery for the
Village on the Green project in the City of La Quinta, California. The project was conducted by
Archaeological Advisory Group for Catellus Residential Group under the sponsorship of the City
of City of La Quinta.
The study area is a 35.9-acre property located at the northwest comer of the intersection of
Jefferson Street apd Avenue 48 in La Quinta, Riverside County, California. Affordable housing is
proposed for the property. The legal description of the property is Tract 28601 and Assessor's
Parcel No. 649-03-20.
The archaeological research described here consisted of the test excavation of two previously -
identified prehistoric sites, CA-RIV-6059 (LAQI) and CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2), along with the test
excavation of a third prehistoric site discovered during this project, CA-RIV-6092 (LAQ5).
Additionally, limited data recovered was conducted at Locus B of site CA-RIV-6059 when the
test program located a major, well-preserved buried deposit in that location.
Additional research was also conducted on two putative historical refuse deposits identified
during the Phase I survey (LAQ3-H and LAQ4-H).
This study was undertaken in accordance with the cultural resource requirements of the City of La
Quinta. These are intended to fulfill those aspects of the California Environmental Quality Act of
1970 (as amended) which pertain to the management of cultural resources that may be impacted
by development projects sponsored by state or local government agencies, or by private
developments requiring a discretionary permit or license.
This report was prepared in accordance with the recommended contents and format described in
the State's Preservation Planning Bulletin Number 4(a) (California Department of Parks and
Recreation 1989).
The Principal Investigator for this study was James Brock. The field crew consisted of Mr.
Brock, Steven K. Dies, William A. Sawyer, James H. Toenjes, and Brenda D. Smith. Laboratory
work was conducted by Brenda D. Smith.
Field notes and other material pertaining to this study are on file with Archaeological Advisory
Group (AAG Job Numbers 980203 and 980304). Curation of the artifacts/ecofacts collected
during this study will be the responsibility of the City of La Quinta.
3
. J C '140
SETTING
NATURAL SETTING
The Village on the Green project (Tentative Map No. 28601) is located in the City of La Quinta,
in the Coachella Valley area of Riverside County, California. It is located at the northwest comer
of the intersection of Jefferson Street and Avenue 48 (Figures 1 and 2).
The study area falls within the southwestern quarter of Section 29 of Township 5 South, Range 7
East, SBBM. This property is located on the USGS 7.5' La Quinta, California topographic
quadrangle.
The topography of the study area is comprised of large aeolian sand dunes with interspersed alkali
salt flats. Soil typically comprises loose gray -tan silty sand. The elevations of the property range
from approximately 42 to 70 feet msl.
Native vegetation on the study area consisted of a Creosote Scrub community, containing
creosotes (Larrea tridentata), mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa), burrobush (Ambrosia dumosa)
and other stickery scrubs (including Dicoria canescens and Schismus barbatus). Animal species
typically encountered in the area include cottontail, jackrabbit, pack rat, pocket mouse, coyote,
scorpion, Western Shovel -nosed Snake, Sidewinder, Desert Iguana, Side -blotched Lizard,
Loggerhead Shrike, Mourning Dove, Say's Phobe, Gambel's Quail, Common Raven, Anna's
Hummingbird, Red-tailed Hawk, Lesser Nighthawk, and American Kestrel.
The property under consideration falls within the Lower Sonoran Life Zone, as does
approximately 60% of Cahuilla territory (Bean and Saubel 1972:12). This zone extends from the
desert floor to the pinyon juniper belt (about 3,500 feet). The Coachella Valley, due to it
placement on the eastern side of the Peninsular ranges, is blocked from receiving moisture moving
eastward from the Pacific. This blockade results in low rainfall of generally less than 5 inches of
precipitation annually. Not only does this region have little rainfall, but it is also one of the hottest
deserts on the continent, having a mean maximum temperature in July that easily exceeds 1000
(Bailey 1966:42).
At present the nearest natural water source is the Whitewater River, which lies one-half mile to
the north. In the past, an ancient lake occupied this valley. This lake, most commonly known as
Lake Cahuilla (also called Lake Le Conte or Blake's Sea), existed during periods of inundation of
the area by the Colorado River. The River's usual course was to flow directly into the Gulf of
California. Periodically, fluctuations in distributary channels would create an accumulation of
sediments at the river's mouth. This would result in the formation of a deltaic barrier which
restricted access to the gulf, causing the course of the river to shift. This diversion caused the
Salton Trough, a geologic depression that extends northward 225 km from the gull', to fill and
form a fresh water lake. The high stand of this lake was 42 feet msl, with a maximum depth of 95
meters, and a surface area of over 5700 kn 2 (Wilke 1988; Waters 1983).
0
O `-AA-O N U fJl E T'—t.
—C— _ 5�_
hM MIYhI�f.QV'J
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Figure 1. General location of the study area plotted on a portion of the USGS Western
United States Series 1:250,000 Santa Ana, California map (1959, revised 1979).
5 •�Jil ���
Figure 2. Specific location of the study area plotted on a portion of the USGS 7.5' La Quinta, California topo«
graphic quadrangle (1959, photorevised 1980).
Wilke (1978) and Laylander (1997) estimated that it would take 12-20 years to fill the basin to
this level if the Colorado River emptied entirely into the lake. Eventually, the river's course
would shift back to the gulf and desiccation of the lake would occur. It would probably take 55-
60 years (Wilke 1978; Laylander 1997) for the lake to completely desiccate after flow was
rediverted.
It is generally accepted that Lake Cahuilla has had at least three major lacustrine intervals in which
the 42 foot msl. level was reached (Wilke 1978; Waters 1983); each of these intervals probably
lasted between 100-250 years. This chronology, originally presented by Wilke (1978), proposed
that there was a high lake stand between 100 B.C. and A.D. 600, another between A.D. 900 and
A.D. 1250, and a final one between A.D. 1300 and A.D. 1500. He based his argument on
sequencing and clustering of radiocarbon dates obtained from charcoal, shell, and tufa deposits.
These dates were corroborated with historical accounts of the region. Waters (1983) argued for
yet another highstand occurring with Wilke's timeframe. He suggested that the first inundation
was around A.D. 700 and the final desiccation occurred circa A.D. 1580. Waters' chronology
was based on radiocarbon dates of stratified shell and charcoal deposits. His dates were also
supported by historical accounts. Recently, researchers (Quinn 1997b; Gurrola and Rockwell
1996; Rockwell 1995; Schaefer 1994) have proposed additional stands of Lake Cahuilla. The
latest archaeological and geological research in the Coachella Valley has produced evidence which
leans toward a last highstand occurring in the seventeenth century. A summary of highstand dates
consistent with the most recent data is as follows: 1) A.D. 1677 (Composite dates for last high
stand was 1660-1680), 2) A.D. 1659, 3) A.D. 1450, 4) A.D. 1360, 5) A.D. 1287, and 6) A.D.
885 (Quinn 1997b).
Cahuilla oral history tells of the rising and falling of Lake Cahuilla. Blake's (1856:98 as cited in
Wilke 1978) version of the story, as told to him by "the chief' was of a great water (aqua grande)
which covered the whole valley and was filled with fine fish. There were also plenty of geese and
ducks. Their fathers lived in the mountains and used to come down to the lake to fish and hunt.
The water gradually subsided `poco,' `poco,' (little by little), and their villages were moved down
from the mountains, and into the valley it had left. They also said that the water once returned
very suddenly and overwhelmed many of their people and drove the rest back to the mountains.
It is also said that with the recession of Lake Cahuilla the mythical coyote "came down from the
mountains and planted mesquite beans on the lakebed (Bowers 1888 and 1891 as cited in Wilke
1978:6)." Mesquite later became an important resource for the Cahuilla.
The eastern end of the study area would have been on the northwestern shoreline of Ancient Lake
Cahuilla. During inundation of the lake a rich marshland environment would have been produced
at or near the study area. The marshland habitat could have been exploited along with the lake
and desert resources. Many useful plants grow in this community and were used by the Cahuilla.
The marshland would have also drawn in many birds, mammals, and reptiles. Undoubtedly, the
Cahuilla also took advantage of these faunal resources.
7
CULTURAL SETTING
While the regional ethnography of the study area is fairly well accounted for, its precontact
history is poorly understood. Archaeologists have struggled for years to put together
comprehensive chronologies for what is referred to as the Prehistoric Period (time preceding
contact with Europeans) of Native American history. The sequence of prehistoric habitation
presented here is based primarily on the concordance of sequences presented by Warren (1984)
and Warren and Crabtree (1986). Warren's timeframe divisions were based on technological
changes in lithic use (i.e. millingstones and projectile points). His model was originally devised
for the Mojave desert region, but because of basic technological similarities in southern California
Indian cultures it is also applicable to the Colorado desert peoples.
Lake Mojave Period
This period probably represents the earliest phase of human occupation in southern California. It
began by at least 10,000 BC and lasted until around 5000 BC. This period is characterized by
hunting of larger games animals using spears and articulated spear -throwing devices termed
"atlatls." Spear points of this period initially were quite large, lanceolate in shape, and were
oftentimes fluted, having a longitudinal groove along the central portion of the body for
attachment to a spear. Other projectile points such as Lake Mojave, Parman, and Silver Lake
points, were somewhat smaller (though still large in comparison to later arrow points) and foliate
in shape. Crescents, specialized scrapers, leaf -shaped knives, drills, and some
choppers/hammerstones are other tools which have been identified with this period. Millingstones
typically are not present. The artifact assemblage of this period is indicative of a generalized
hunting and gathering subsistence economy.
Archaeological sites from early on in this period were generally associated with Pleistocene lake
shorelines. As the Altithermal (a warmer and drier climatic period that lasted from 6000 B.C. to
900B.C.) set in, sites began to concentrate around desert oases, away from receding lakes that
were becoming too brackish for consumption. This movement likely spawned the technological
change that would lead to the Pinto Basin complex.
Pinto Period
The Pinto Period dates from around 5000 to 2000 BC, corresponding roughly to the Millingstone
Horizon in the coastal areas of California. Although desert and coastal peoples shared cultural
traits during this period, desert peoples probably did not have the same dependence on
millingstones as coastal peoples. Seed grinding does not appear to be an important economic
activity yet to the peoples of this period, but the presence of flat slab and occasionally shallow -
basin metates along with manos, indicates growing importance that plant seed resources were
beginning to have. Presumably these peoples were still maintaining a large and small game
hunting and vegetal gathering economy during this period. Pinto points, as defined by Campbell
and Campbell (1935), are the distinctive lithics of this period. These are usually found in
association with heavy -keeled scrapers, and millingstones.
16a
Pinto Basin complex sites am generally found in association with ephemeral lakes, stream
channels, and springs, which to some suggests a break in the Altithermal warming. Presumably
there was a reoccupation of lakeshore areas around 4500 BC and then a retreat back to desert
oases by 3500 BC. This time period is known as the Little Pluvial.
Gypsum Period
The Gypsum Period is believed to date from around 2000 BC to about AD 500. Again, primary
artifacts indicative of this period are projectile points of various types, including Gypsum Cave,
Humbolt series, and Elko series points. The early Gypsum period is characterized by larger
projectile points when use of the dart and atlatl were still common. Later, with the introduction
of the bow and arrow, smaller points become prominent. Manos and metates become more
common, and the mortar and pestle come into use —indicating a developing reliance upon fleshier
seed foods such as mesquite pods and acorns. Presence of Haliotis and Olivella shell beads in
sites of this period provide the earliest evidence for contact between desert and coastal peoples.
Saratoga Springs Period
The Saratoga Springs period lasts from about AD 500 to 1200. During this period the southern
desert region, in which the Coachella Valley hes, deviates from the rest of the desert region due to
heavy cultural influence by the Hakataya, a lower Colorado River group. The Hakataya influence
brings drastic technological change to the peoples of this region. Buffware and Brownware
pottery, made using the paddle and anvil technique, are introduced and reliance on the bow and
arrow increases which leads to a new projectile point type called Cottonwood Triangular.
Millingstones, including manos, metates, pestles, and mortars are present in this time period.
Late Pre -Contact Period
The Late Pre -Contact Period spans from A.D. 1200 to contact with Europeans. It is
characterized mostly by continuing regional development, which causes groups to differentiate
technologically, ethnographically, and linguistically. In the Coachella Valley region, Hakataya
influence continues, with Colorado Buffware and Tizon Brownware still present. Desert Side -
notched points have become the dominant point type.
Proto-Historic Period
Desert Cahuilla have inhabited the Coachella Valley region for at least the last 1000 years. They
are a Takic speaking people who are more closely culturally tied with coastal and Colorado River
groups than with most other Mojave desert peoples. First known contact with the Cahuilla by a
European was during the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition in 1774-1776. They were largely
ignored by the Spanish until the establishment of the Asistencias San Ant6nio de Pala (1816),
Santa Ysabel (1818), and San Bernardino (1830). Through these mission outposts the Spanish
managed to indirectly influence Cahuilla religious beliefs and culture. During the Mexican
occupation of California, the Cahuilla were largely left alone by intruders. It was not until 1853
when the Southern Pacific Railroad began surveying the Coachella Valley for a possible railroad
route that the Cahudla were again bothered. By this point the lands inhabited by the Cabuilla had
become desired by Americans. In response to this, President Ulysses S. Grant began allotting
Cahuilla lands in 1875 to give to, American settlers. It was during this period when the removal of
the Cahuilla to government reservations began. Ten reservations were created that affected the
Cahufl* of these four are in the Coachella Valley.
Ethnography
Many studies of Cahuilla culture have been conducted over the years. Among the most
informative accounts are Bean (1972, 1978), Strong (1929), Hooper (1920), and Kroeber (1908).
Four excellent ethnobiological studies also exist (Ebeling 1986, Barrows 1900, Kroeber 1925, and
Bean and Saubel 1972), as well as archaeological accounts of prehistoric Cahuilla adaptations to
the desiccation of ancient Lake Cahuilla (e.g. Wilke 1978).
The Cahuilla are divided by anthropologists into three subgroups, the Desert Cahuilla of the
Coachella Valley, the Pass Cahuilla of the San Gorgonio pass area, and the Mountain Cahuilla of
the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains. These divisions were based on geographic separation
and dialect differences, but they were not necessarily recognized by the Cahuilla themselves.
Actually, the Cahuilla did not consider themselves to be of one tribe as western anthropologists
have designated them to be. Bean (1972:85) reported that "the maximal level of social
identification among the Cahuilla was the ?ivi?1yu?a1um, a linguistically and culturally defined
group ... [which] refers to persons speaking the Cahuilla language and recognizing a commonly
shared cultural heritage ... [but] a more precise membership criterion existed at the next level of
group identity." A person's inclusion in his or her moiety and lineage (or clan) was primary to any
tribal affiliation.
The two moieties, or main divisions, of the Cahuilla were the Istam (coyote) and the Tuktum (wild
cat). Moieties were patrilineal and exogamous, meaning that lineage was followed through the
father and that members of one moiety had to marry into the other. Clans were numerous and
were named after or associated with the villages they comprised. Individual clans claimed
ownership over their village and the territories in which they hunted, gathered, and camped.
Territories could be several square miles in extent and were only for the use of a specific lineage.
Mesquite grove boundaries, for instance, were drawn to include specific trees. Everyone knew
who those trees belong to so that if someone from another lineage was found trespassing a fight
could ensue. But in times of need, areas were shared with other clans. This allowance occurred
regularly with mesquite because these groves do not produce bountiful crops each year. In the
case of crop failure, a neighboring clan would invite the misfortunate person into their territory to
gather.
10
Historical Background
Some homesteaders were present in La Quinta as early as late last century, however the real
origins of modem La Quinta rest with the opening of the La Quinta Hotel in 1926 (Cooper
1976:40). This was a hotel and winter resort with a golf course. It was developed on part of
1400 acres owned by the Desert Development Company (Gunther 1984:286).
Records at the BLM office in Riverside indicate that the study area was not part of government
homestead lands but rather part of a 5291.44-acre railroad grant patent, which included all of
Section 29, that dated to June 30, 1905 (BLM Serial File No. 89). The railroad sold off portion
of Section 29 to small-scale farmers early in this century, although no fanning appears to have
taken place on the present study area.
Records, Literature, and Archaeological Background Information
An archaeological records search was conducted during the Phase I survey for this study (see
Demcak 1997). This was conducted through the Eastern Information Center of the California
Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) at UC Riverside
Prior to Demcak's investigation, two surveys were conducted on the western and southern
boundaries of the current project area. The first was a reconnaissance undertaken for the Avenue
48 Extension Project that went along the southern border of the present study area (Brock
1997a). This identified one isolated buffware shed that fell onto the project area (Isolate Number
33-7897). The other survey was for a 3.2 acre soil stockpile area located at the southwestern end
of the study area (Brock 1997b) This survey was negative.
Demcak's study revealed two prehistoric sites, CA-RIV-6059 (LAQ1) and CA-RIV-6060
(LAQ2), and two putative historical refuse scatters (LAQ3-H and LAQ4-H). Attachment A
shows the locations of these sites. Three isolated finds were also noted (I-1-H, I-2-P, and I-3-P).
The study area is in a vicinity of high archaeological sensitivity. Seventeen previously recorded
sites are present within a one-half mile radius of the study area. Of these, 11 are precontact
habitation sites of various sizes, typically containing pottery, chipped and ground stone, bone,
charcoal, and thermally -affected rock. Of the six sites, one is a precontact pottery scatter, one is a
precontact pottery scatter associated with a historic dump, two represent historic homesteads, one
is a dirt road, and one is a historic refuse deposit.
Based on the presence of ceramics, most of the prehistoric sites within the one -mile radius appear
to be relatively recent in date (post AD 500).
An additional 25 sites are present in the region from one-half to one mile away from the study
area_
11
jug
Approximately 60 percent of the land within a one-half mile radius of the study area had been
previous surveyed for cultural resources (prior to the Demcak survey).
RESEARCH DESIGN
INTRODUCTION
A research design is a guide document to organize research and interpret findings. It provides a
structure from which the evaluation of significance can be made. A research design is usually
regional in scope and based on some type of statistically -based sampling program (see
Binford 1964). A research design generally has the following elements: (1) a theoretical
orientation, (2) research areas, or domains, under which come (3) specific research hypotheses
or questions which have (4) test implications for interpretation of field data.
THEORETICAL ORIENTATION
The theoretical orientation which structures this research design is cultural materialism. Cultural
materialism assumes that decision making by people and groups is based upon economic
considerations. It assumes that behavior, at least in the long term, is rational and therefore
adaptive. It recognizes that people and groups have not and do not always behave in a rational
manner but from the relatively gross temporal perspective of archaeology, such behavior is not
statistically significant.
RESEARCH DOMAINS
The research domains, or topics, which will be considered are chronology, subsistence practices,
settlement systems, exchange systems, and site structure and evolution of use. Discussions of
these domains are provided below.
Chronology
Chronology is the backbone of archaeology. Establishing the sequence of cultural change
through time is a fundamental concern in archaeology. Unless a site can be placed in a
temporal context, its ability to address the evolution of a cultural system is seriously limited.
Fortunately, datable material (e.g. charcoal) is relatively abundant on sites in the La Quinta area.
Abundant Late Period sites are: present in the La Quinta area. A major concern in La Quinta
archaeology is establishing changes in Late Period settlement and subsistence patterns in
relation to the changes in the water level of ancient Lake Cahuilla. Also, earlier sites are rare.
Any data helping to establish an Archaic Period chronology for the area is extremely valuable.
• Does the site contain sufficient material for absolute or relative dating?
Test implications: presence of carbon in sufficient quantity to provide absolute dates, presence
of temporally -sensitive artifact types.
12
1J7
• Is there any evidence for an Archaic Period use of the site?
Test implications: absolute (e.g. carbon) date of pre -AD 900 or presence of artifacts (e.g.
projectile points, beads) dated to pre -AD 900.
• Can the site be tied in to one or more of the postulated stands of ancient Lake Cahuilla (see
e.g. Waters 1983)?
Test implication: absolute date(s) that corresponds to a postulated stand of Lake Cahuilla.
• Is there any evidence for a post -Lake Cahuilla use of the site?
Test implication: absolute or relative date of post -AD 1650, presence of historical
artifacts.
Subsistence Practices
The presence of faunal remains, floral remains, and artifacts associated with food extraction and
processing can provide valuable information on the subsistence practices of precontact Native
Americans. Midden deposits can provide a good range of evidence for exploitation of faunal
resources. Also, carbonized seeds from sites could provide evidence of early agricultural
activities, which are suspected to have occurred in the region but, as yet, lack archaeological
evidence. Reconstruction of ceramic vessel forms and the types of ground stone implements
present could provide information on the types of resources being exploited by the site's
inhabitants.
• Is there evidence of a change in subsistence strategies at the site, particularly ones relating to
the desiccation of Lake Cahuilla?
Test implication: change in frequencies of particular faunal or floral species in
stratigraphically discrete contexts dating to the last stand and later periods.
• Is there evidence of agriculture? If so, does it relate to changing subsistence practices forced
by the desiccation of Lake Cahuilla?
■ Is there evidence of what, if any, subsistence activity(ies) was being engaged in at the site?
Settlement Systems
Information on settlement patterns should be present in the information from the site. Data
may present evidence of changing settlement patterns with the different lacustral episodes of Lake
Cahuilla and those caused by the final desiccation of the lake.
13
• Does the site indicate settlement associated with the exploitation of Lake Cahuilla resources?
• Can settlement location be related to a particular stand of ancient Lake Cahuilla?
• Is there evidence of a change in settlement patterns pertaining to the desiccation of Lake
Cahuilla?
• Was shoreline occupation at Lake Cahuilla primarily seasonal or year round (Wake 1978:14)?
Exchange Systems
Patterns of exchange should be evidenced in artifactual material from the site. Such things as
lithic types, ceramics, and beads present could indicate trade relations with other groups (e.g.
Colorado River or coastal California). The following research questions have been developed to
address this domain:
■ Are exotic resources present at the site? Do these represent direct procurement or
exchange mechanisms?
■ Is there evolution through time in the types or quantities of non -local resources
present?
■ Is the local catchment area sufficiently diverse in natural resources to discourage trade
relations?
■ Is there evidence of the exchange of technologies or ideas, rather than material
objects?
Site Structure and Evolution of Use
Most prehistoric sites in southern California lack sufficient integrity or intensity of occupation to
allow for a meaningful analysis of activity areas at the site and how the uses of different areas on
the site evolve through time. Important sites have discemable activity areas and may show an
evolution through time of different uses of the site.
■ Do any of the sites present display clear areas of specialized activity?
■ If any of the sites are multi -component, do they show evidence of a change in activity
or use through time?
14
METHODS
FIELDWORK TECHMQUES
Standard archaeological techniques were utilized during the project. Excavation units were one -
by -one, one -by -two, or two -by -two meters. Soil was excavated in arbitrary 10 cm levels and
screened using 1/e-inch mesh shaker screens. All units were drawn in profile, photographed, and
had soil samples taken from each discernible stratigraphic level.
In areas of light artifact density surface collection was done by transit and 50 meter hand tape or
stadia rod. At Locus A of CA-RIV-6059 surface collection was mostly conducted by grid
because of the high density of artifacts present there.
Due to the potential for buried prehistoric deposits to be present on the study area, backhoe
trenching was conducted systematically across the property in a 50 meter grid (Figure 3). This
excluded the fill dirt at the southwestern comer and the disturbed area adjacent to the Evacuation
Channel. The backhoe grid was used in closer intervals when Locus B at CA-RIV-6059 was
being defined. All backhoe dirt was screened using 1/s inch mesh screening on a stationary stand.
This proved to be a successful technique. A view of backhoe work in progress is shown as Figure
4.
The sampling strategy was random systematic when possible or otherwise intuitive.
LABORATORY TECHNIQUES
General
Laboratory work consisted of the cleaning, sorting, cataloging, and analysis of the recovered
specimens. A computer database program was utilized for the artifact/ecofact catalog.
Specimens from the site were munbered with the California state trinomial and a catalog number.
Catalog numbers are five digits. The first two digits denote the material/analysis category: CA
(carbon), CE (ceramics), CL (clay), CS (chipped stone), FA (faunal), GL (glass), MI
(miscellaneous), and PR (plastic/rubber). The last three digits correspond to the consecutive
order of specimens within each category.
Macrobotanical Analysis (Steve L. Martin and Virginia S. Popper)
Three soil samples were submitted to the UCLA Paleoethnobotany Lab for floatation analysis by
Dr. Steve L. Martin and Dr.Virginia S. Popper. Two of the samples were taken from Unit 7
(Layer 2, 10-20 cm and 5A, 60-70 cm) and one from Unit 9 (Layer 1, 3040 cm). The primary
objective of this analysis was to document the types and frequency of botanical remains recovered
from the samples.
15
.A 4�'�
N170NV75_
N170fW50
/
N150fW100\
Nf50NV75
N150NV125 -
- /-N150fW50
N137.5fW125 -
-N137.5/W75
N1
N125fW275- N125fW225^ N125NV125--_^
N1M(50
N12511M5- -
N10WVV75
N125IW137.5` N112.5fW125^
/N100/W700/
/
N100AN125^ -
- -N100fW50
N87.5fW100-
- N87.SAN75
N75fW27'5 N75NV225 N75NV175-
^ N751W725 ^
-N75NV75
N25IW275 - N25AN225^ N25IW175^ N25MI25- N25AN75-
DATUM +
(UTIL. POLE)
DENSE
FILL AREA S251W225- S25IW775^ S25NV125- VEGETATION
VILLAGE ON THE GREEN
Plan Showing Locations s75fw225_ 375fw175- S75IW125- S75IW79-
of Backhoe Trenches
® o wa . IN
0 r..t 30)
Figure 3. Locations of backhoe trenches excavated (Phases II and III).
Figure 4. View of backhoe
work in progress. Note the
portable screen on the left.
16
1 117�)
Soil samples from CA-RIV-6059 were floated by hand in the Paleoethnobotany Laboratory at
UCLA Sample were poured into a 10 gallon bucket containing water and agitated. Agitation
allows light materials, such as carbonized plant remains, to float to the surface where they are
decanted into chiffon netting (0.02 mm mesh). Sediment remaining in the bucket was poured into
a sieve with a 1.0 mm mesh opening. This material or heavy fraction, was then washed and dried
on paper. All heavy fractions were examined for the presence of botanical material.
All light fractions from the submitted samples were sifted through a series of nested sieves (2.00,
1.00, and 0.50 mm), yielding four size fractions (>2.00 mm, 2.00-1.00 mm, 1.00-0.50 mm, and
<0.50 mm) in preparation for sorting. The light fraction is divided as such for two reasons. It is
easier to sort material of similar size, given the shallow depth of field of the incident light
binocular microscope (10-40x) employed. It also allows one to selectively remove distinct
materials from each fraction. In this analysis, carbonized wood was only removed from the >2.00
mm fraction and weighed. All other carbonized plant material was removed from the 2.00-1.00
mm and 1.00-0.50 mm fractions and counted or weighed. Material <0.50 mm in size was quickly
scanned for whole seeds, however, none were present. Plant material generally decomposes in a
relatively short period of time after deposition. Therefore, uncarbonized plant remains, which
usually represent contamination by modern vegetation, are noted but not removed (Minns 1981;
Keepax 1977). Only carbonized material was considered cultural in this analysis.
The recovered carbonized plant remains were identified though the use of comparative plant and
seed collections and seed manuals located in the Paleoethnobotany Laboratory in the Institute of
Archaeology at UCLA. Wood charcoal specimens were fractured to give a clean transverse
section and then examined under an incident light binocular microscope at 40x. A grab of 20
pieces of wood charcoal from the >2.00 mm fraction of each sample was selected if available.
This subsample size was deemed appropriate given the diversity of taxa present (Smart and
Hoffman 1988:186). Identifications were made using comparative modem wood specimens
collected from southern California. All specimens large enough to be identified were identified.
Pollen Analysis (Owen K. Davis)
Three pollen samples were analyzed by Dr. Owen K. Davis of University of Arizona, Department
of Geosciences. PSI was taken from Unit 7, 10-20 centimeter level; PS002 was taken from Unit
7, 60-70 centimeter level; and PS003 came from Unit 9, 30-40 centimeter level.
Pollen was extracted from 5cm3 samples by routine acid digestion. One Lycopo&um tablet
(13,911 spores per tablet) was added to each sample to permit calculation of pollen concetration.
Three hundred pollen grains of upland plants were counted for all samples. The pollen sum of
upland plants (including deteriorated) is used as the divisor for all pollen percentages. The pollen
of aquatic plants, spores or ferns and fimgi, charcoal, and other microfossils are not included in
the sum. Typically more than 1000 microfossils are counted per sample. Pollen clumps
(aggregates) are counted as four grains.
17
-", 1-7v
The pollen concentration is calculated for the pollen sum. It is an index of preservation and the
sediment accumulation rate. Low concentration combined with poor preservation may indicate
the destruction of pollen, making interpretation of the pollen percentages in terms of past
environment questionable. Alternately, good preservation and low concentration might result
from rapid sediment accumulation.
Faunal Analysis (Thomas A. Wake)
Analysis of vertebrate faunal was conducted by Dr. Thomas Wake of the Zooarchaeology
Laboratory, UCLA.
Vertebrate faunal remains were recovered from 11 excavation units, along with backhoe trenches,
at RIV-6059 and 5 excavation units at RIV-6060. All of the sediment excavated at these two
sites was dry screened through :3 mm (1/8 in.) mesh. Recovered artifact classes were sorted and
bagged separately. The remains in question arrived at the UCLA Zooarchaeology Laboratory in
excavation bags labeled with respective unit and level provenience information. Analysis in this
report focuses exclusively on the available vertebrate faunal remains recovered from the
excavation units.
The faunal analysis specifically identifies and addresses the dietary patterns observed in the
vertebrate faunal assemblage. Interpretation focuses on what these patterns suggest in terms of
resource focus, vertebrate acquisition, and processing. Any changes in species frequencies or
relative abundances will be discussed in terms of their relation to the desiccation of ancient Lake
Cahuilla and concomitant shifts in vertebrate subsistence patterns. To identify resource focus and
any shifts, data (in the form of charts and tables) detailing which animal species are represented in
this assemblage are presented and discussed.
Identifications
The non -fish vertebrate skeletal remains from RIV-6059 and RIV-6060 were identified and
analyzed by the staff of the UCLA Zooarchaeology laboratory including Mercedes Duque, Lady
Harrington, Judith Porcasi, Wendy Teeter, and Thomas Wake. All identifications were confirmed
using the comparative osteological collection housed in the UCLA Institute of Archaeology
Zooarchaeology Laboratory. Each bone specimen was identified to the most discrete taxonomic
level possible. More detailed taxonomic assignment is limited to elements with sufficient
distinguishing features allowing identification to the given level. Bones lacking discrete
morphological features were sorted into broad size categories by class. Size categories are
defined as follows: for mammals, large represents deer size or greater, medium represents smaller
than deer but larger than jackrabbit, and small represents jackrabbit or smaller, for birds large
represents goose size or greater, medium represents ducks to roadrunners, and small represents
jays or smaller.
18
The fish bone specimens were identified by Thomas Wake using the fish comparative osteological
collection housed in the UCLA Institute of Archaeology Zooarchaeology Laboratory, augmented
by specimens on loan from the California Academy of Sciences, in San Francisco, and
comparative specimens housed in the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History
(LACMNH), following Gobalet's (1992) methods. Less identifiable fish were classed as
Osteichthyes (bony fish).
For each discretely identifiable bone a series of data were recorded including catalog number,
complete provenience and screen size information, skeletal element, part of element, side, age,
and modification. Data recorded regarding modification of bone specimens include evidence of
burning, cut marks, gnaw marks, and indications of tool or other artifact manufacture. The bone
was counted and weighed to the nearest 0.01 g using electronic scales. Archival quality paper
tags with the above information are included in each individual bag of analyzed bone specimens.
Complete detailed information for each site is provided in the catalog (under separate cover).
Identification of human remains
All bone specimens were inspected in order to determine the presence or absence of human
remains in the CA-RIV-6059 and CA-RIV-6060 vertebrate faunal assemblages. The contents of
each bag were examined carefully for characters diagnostic of Homo including articular surfaces,
foramina, cancellous tissue, inner and outer tables for skull fragments, general morphology and
bone thickness (Bass 1987; White 1991). No human bone was identified from either site during
laboratory analysis. However, human bone was identified during the monitoring of CA-RIV-6060
and was analyzed by Deborah Gray (1998), a forensic anthropologist. This was a cremation
interment identified as Feature 3.
FINDINGS: FIELDWORK DETAILS AND GENERAL FINDINGS
Fieldwork for this project comprised two phases, Phase II (Test Program) and Limited Phase III
(Data Recovery and Boundary Definition). Phase I had already been conducted by
Archaeological Resource Management Corporation in 1997 (Demcak 1997).
PHASE H
Phase II consisted of test excavation and surface collection at the two prehistoric sites recorded
during the Phase I survey, CA-RIV-6059 (LAQ1) and CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2). Work was also
conducted at another prehistoric site CA-RIV-6092 (LAQ5) that was newly discovered by AAG.
Additionally, the two putative historical refuse deposits recorded by ARMC were also inspected
(LAQ3-H and LAQ5-H). Fieldwork took place on the following days in 1998: 2/12, 2/13, 2/16,
2/17, 2/18, 2/19, 2/20, 2/23, and 2/24. The following personnel assisted with the Phase II work:
James Brock, Brenda D. Smith, William A. Sawyer, Steven K. Dies, and James H. Toenjes.
19
.1; 19
All units dug during Phase II were one -by -one meter in size. Five units were dug at CA-RIV-
6059 (Units 1-5), five units were dug at CA-RIV-6060 (Units 1-5), and one unit was dug at CA-
RIV-6092 (Unit 1). Additionally, three features were investigated at CA-RIV-6059 (Features 1-
3) and one unit was examined at CA-RIV-6060 (Feature 2—Feature 1 had been previously
excavated). All four features were surface rock scatters. Figures 5, 6, and 7 shows the locations
of units and features at the three sites investigated.
Also during Phase II systematic backhoe trenching was conducted to look for buried deposits.
Backhoe trenches were generally dug on a 50 meter interval grid (see Figure 3 above). Backhoe
trenches were dug directly to the west of grid points and were generally 60 centimeters wide, 2
meters long, and 1.2 to 2.0 meters in depth. The dirt was screened through 1/4 inch mesh. A total
of 29 backhoe trenches were dug during Phase H. See Table 1 for the results of the backhoe
trenching.
The backhoe trenching proved highly successful. A major buried habitation area was located at
Locus B of CA-RIV-6059. This discovery facilitated another phase of research to better define
the extent of the deposit and to acquire a sample of the material that is present. This was termed
"Limited Phase III".
LIMITED PHASE III
This phase of research entailed the excavation of additional hand units and backhoe trenches in
order to better evaluate the nature and extent of the buried deposit present at Locus B of CA-
RIV-6059. Work took place on the following days in 1998: 3/26, 3/27, 3/28, 3/29, and 3/30.
The crew consisted of James Brock, William A. Sawyer, and Steven K. Dies.
The units varied in size from one -by -one, one -by -two, to two -by -two meters in size. They are
numbered 6 to 11 (see Figure 5). The backhoe trenches were dug on the same grid employed
during the test phase but were excavated at closer intervals to determine the extent of the deposit
(see Figure 8). Ten additional backhoe trenches were excavated bringing the total number of
trenches dug to 39. The results of all the backhoe trenching are provided in Table 1.
UNIT DESCRIPTIONS
Unit Descriptions for CA-RIV-6059
Genera!
Units 1 thourgh 5 were excavated at this site during the test phase (Figure 5). Because of the
high density of surface artifacts at Locus A most (4) of the units were dug in that location (Units
1, 2, 4, and 5). These indicated that no meaningful subsurface deposit was present, with artifacts
almost exclusively confined to the top 2 cm of the locus. This clearly indicates soil deflation at
this locus.
20
R J\
b�
CA-RIV-6059
1�
III
0
Unit 8
�N1� JJ15p ^ +NiSOW100 N15WWW
t// +
Unit 11 Unit 10-.
i j.-Unit3
Unit 6-g, � l
(Unit 7"
< \ \ l_Vnit4
Unit 1 �- Unit 2 n
I
LOCUS A Feature 1
Q
Unit s"•s�
�J
,
i J
~AREA TO BE
PRESERVED
� Unit 9
-Feature 3
Locus B
IVA
N V100
JFeature 2
CA-RIV-6059
Site Plan Showing Unit
and Feature Locations
0 Meters 100
0 Feet 300
Figure 5. Map of CA-RIV-6059 showing unit and feature locations.
21
.� ills
CA RIV-6060 Site Plan
0 Meters 100
An
0 Feet 300
Estimated Extent of Site Unit 1,�
L
UMWIFeature 2
r
Unit 2 - •
u
• — Feature 1
Figure 6. Map of CA-RIV-6060 showing unit and feature locations.
i
t
I
I
22 ,.Ji, 1-11
MID Feet
if
Trench
S751W1
J�
Key:
• Ceramic sherd
x Ground stone fragment
0 140 Clay fragments
O 11-20 Clay fragments
O 21-30 Clay fragments
f15
+SSOlW1OD +S50AN.10
Trench
S75M75
/ oil
c =I
_ •O �Unit 1
II
.I
t
Datum !
(W. Pole
96493)
014 i00 ,
o C Oile. '
0t= u . '
130 f) a
•E V:C
O Eat extent
of site
/ I
\•0� O
Note:
Surface collection
numbersllettera are
shown, not catalog
numbers.
= --- LAQ5 - ---- -
Figure 7. Map of CA -RI V-6092 (LAQ5).
23
NWOAW5 � / N170M50
N150NV100, % N15UIW75
N1501W125 �; : _N1501W50
N137.51W125 LOCUS B N13T.5NV75 N1251W50
11
N1251W125 --- / ` - -'� ! i ` N1251W.
N125NV75- -
N125/W137.5-�N112.5NV125= N100NV100�' N100NV75
N100/W125-\/ . ',N10ONV50
i N87.5/W100_ _ If87.5NV75
N75NV175 -
N75fW125 ! N75NV75
' Area to be
Preserved
N251W175 N251W125 ;' N25/W75
- -
Locus A
S251W175
S751W175 _
i
i
S251W125 -
CA.RIV-6059
.5
Datum I
(Util. Pole ��+
96493)
Site Plan Showing
S751WI25 _ Backhoe Trenches
rf�� p WtaR 100
Feet 300
Figure 8. Backhoe trenches at CA-RIV-6059.
24
TRENCH
CORRESPONDING
DEPTH
STRATIGRAPHIC
GENERAL FINDINGS
NUMBER
SITE
(CMS.)
OBSERVATIONS
S75IW75
CA-RIV-6092
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands
S75/W 125
CA-RIV-6092
120
Finely layered aeolian
Burned clay fragments
sands
S75/W175
None
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands, some compacted
silt layering
S75/W225
None
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands, some compacted
silt layering
S25/W 125
None
120
Aeolian sands,
1 burned clay fragment
compacted silts below 80
cols.
S25/W175
CA-RIV-6059A
120
Surface compact, silty
Negaive
sands below
S25/W225
None
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands
N25/W75
None
120
1 Aeolian sands
Negative
N251W I25
CA-RIV-6059A
120
Aeolian deposits Only
Negative
N25/W175
CA-RIV-6059A
120
Aeolian deposits,
Negative
compacted at surface
N25/W225
None
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands
N25IW275
None
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands
N75/W75
CA-RIV-6059A
120
Aeolian sands
I clay, 1 faunal
N751W125
CA-RIV-6059A
120
Aeolian sands
Negative
N75/W175
None
120
Aeolian sands
Negative
N751W225
None
120
Aeolian sands, no
1 flake
discernable layers
N75/W275
None
120
Aeolian sands
Negative
N87.5/W75
CA-RIV-6059B
220
Aeolian silty sands,
OtivcUa bead, faunal,
compacted sands with
ceramics, burned clay,
caliche at 105-125 cros.
charcoal fragments
Cultural material to
200+ cros.
N87.51W100
CA-RIV-6059B
200
Aeolian sands
Faunal, charcoal fragments,
shell
N100/W50
CA-RIV-6059B
200
Beds of compacted silt
Burned clay above 50 cros.,
I
and very fine sand
charcoal fra ents
Table 1. Summary of trench data from Phases II and M.
25
r .i
TRENCH
CORRESPONDING
DEPTH
STRATIGRAPHIC
GENERAL FINDINGS
NUMBER
SITE
(CMS.)
OBSERVATIONS
N100/W75
CA-RIV-6059B
140
Aeolian silty sands;
Ceramics, faunal, burned
dense burned cultural
clay, charcoal, thermally
layer +/- 40 to 80 cons.
affected rock, milling stone
fragment
N1001WI00
CA-RIV-6059B
190
Aeolian sands; 2
Ceramics, faunal, burned
discernable cultural
clay, charcoal, thermally
levels: 50-60 and 100+
affected rock
curs.
N100/W125
CA-RIV-6059B
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands
N112.5/W 125
CA-RIV-6059B
210
Finely layered aeolian
Burned clay, glass fragment,
sands
1 bone, charcoal fragments
N125/W37.5
CA-RIV-6059B
200
Very loose silty sands
Ceramics, burned clay,
faunal, charcoal fragments,
shell
N125/W50
CA-RIV-6059B
180
Aeolian sands; dense
Ceramics, faunal, burned
burned cultural deposit
clay, shell, charcoal,
+/- 100 to 150 curs.
thermally affected rock
N125IW75
CA-RIV-6059B
120
Aeolian silty sands, no
Ceramics, faunal, charcoal,
discernable stratigraphy
projectile point
N1251WI25
CA-RIV-6059B
120
Aeolian sands, burned
Ceramics, faunal, lithics,
laver at +/-50cros.
charcoal
NI25/W137.5
CA-RIV-6059B
200
Aeolian silty sands, no
Charcoal fragments only
discernable stratigraphy
N1251W225
None
120
Aeolian silty sands, no
Negative
discernable stiatigraphy
N125IW275
None
120
Aeolian silty sands, no
Negative
discernable stratigraphy
N137.5/W75
CA-RIV-6059B
200
Silty sands, clayey sands
2 fragments burned clay,
at bottom
charcoal fragments
N137.5/W125
CA-RIV-6059B
200
Silty sands, no
Small amount of ceramics,
discernable stratigraphy
faunal, charcoal
N150IW50
CA-RIV-6059B
1.5
Silty sands, disturbed to
I ground stone fragment
40 cons.
N150IW75
CA-RIV-6059B
170
Aeolian silty sands
Faunal (probably intrusive),
some charcoal fragments
N1501W100
CA-RIV-605913
180
Silty sands, no
2 ceramics, some small
discernable stratigraphy
charcoal fragments
N1501W125
CA-RIV-6059B
120
Finely layered aeolian
Negative
sands, some compacted
silt layering
N170/W50
CA-RIV-6059B
150
Aeolian sands, gravel in
1 ceramic, 1 bone, 2
top 20 cons.
fragments clay
N170/W75
CA-RIV-6059B
150
Aeolian sands, gravel in
9 ceramics, 1 faunal
top 20 cons.
Table 1(continued). Summary of trench data from Phases II and III.
26
CSC
Only one unit, Unit 3, was excavated at Locus B because very little surface material was present
in this area. With the exception of light material in the top 0 to 10 cm level, the unit was negative.
This lead us to believe--erroneously—that little cultural material existed at Locus B. Fortunately,
we knew of the potential for buried sites to be present in the vicinity based on our recent
investigations at the nearby Burning Dune site (Brock and Smith 1998). Consequently we
conducted backhoe trenching across the property and discovered a major buried habitation
deposit at Locus B (see Figure 3 above).
Units 6 through 11 at CA-RIV-6059 were all excavated at Locus B at part of Phase III (Figure
5). These units were intended to better define the extent of the buried deposit and to provide a
sample of the material present. None of the units were dug into the densest, central part of the
deposit because boundary definition was the major concern. Also, the expense of analyzing the
high density of material from the central area was a consideration. Units 7 and 9, which were in
peripheral areas of the buried deposit, provided the best glimpse of what the main concentration
might produce.
Unit 1
This was a one -by -one meter unit dug in an area of high density surface artifacts at Locus A. It
was dug to 40 cm and postholed to 100 cm. Two sherds came from the surface of the unit. The
stratigraphy of the unit is shown in Figure 9.
Unit 2
This was a one -by -one meter unit dug in an area of high density surface artifacts at Locus A. It
was dug to 30 cm and postholed to 70 cm. All artifacts were confined to the surface. The
stratigraphy consisted of a moist brown silt (Munsell: 10YR5/3) to approximately 10 cm, a dry
pale brown silt (Munsell: 10YR6/3) to approximately 20 cm, and a loose pale brown (Munsell:
10YR6/3) sand below this.
Unit 3
This was a one -by -one meter unit dug in an area of low density surface artifacts at Locus B. It
was dug to 30 cm and postholed to 100 cm. One sherd, two clay fragments, one piece of glass,
and one metal fragment came from the top level. The other two levels were sterile. All levels
were a grayish brown aeolian sand (Munsell: 10YR5/2) with no obvious stratification aside from
that caused by differential moisture. A view of the unit is presented as Figure 10.
27
CA-RIV-6059, Unit 1, North Sidewall Datum (NE Corner)
Hole with loose sand
'thin lens of loose sand • `
V-shaped cutlfissure 2.
filled with sand
...:
Key:
0 20 cros. 1. Moist brown silt (Munsell: 10YR5/3).
Cultural material In top 5 ems.
2. Dry pale brown slit, finely layered
(Munsell:10YR613).
3. Loose pale brown sand (Munsell: IOYR613).
Figure 9. Stratigraphic profile of Unit 1, CA-RIV-6059, Locus A.
Figure 10. View of Unit 3 at CA-RIV-6059, Locus B.
28
Unit 4
This was a one -by -one meter unit dug in an area of high density surface artifacts, including
obsidian flakes, at Locus A. It was dug to 40 cm and postholed to 90 cm. All artifacts were
confined to the top level. All levels were a grayish brown aeolian sand (Munsell: I OYR5/2) with
no obvious stratification aside from that caused by differential moisture.
Unit 5
This one -by -one meter unit was dug at the southern end of Locus A. It was dug to 30 cm and
postholed to 90 cm below ground surface. The only finds were two pieces of burned clay from
the surface of the first level. The stratigraphy consisted of compact grayish brown silt (Munsell:
IOYR5/2) to 5 cm, layered grayish brown silty sands (Munsell: 10YR5/2) with organic debris to
20 cm, and grayish brown sand (Munsell: IOYR5/2) below 20 cm.
Unit 6
This unit was two -by -two meters square and dug in the central area of Locus B just north of
where a backhoe trench, N1251W75, had encountered substantial findings. Surprisingly, Unit 6
produced little material. The unit was dug to 100 cm with a consistent stratigraphy of finely
layered grayish brown aeolian sands (Munsell: IOYR5/2). To ensure that a buried deposit was
not being missed a 50 cm diameter shovel test pit (STP) was dug in the bottom of the unit down
to 160 cm below ground surface. The STP findings were negative.
Unit 7
This was a one -by -two meter unit excavated on the western portion of Locus B just north of
where a previous trench (N1251WI25) indicated there was dense cultural activity. A backhoe
was used to clear overburden from the top 50 cm of soil. The unit was excavated to 110 cm
below this (i.e. 160 cm total). Due to sidewall collapse at the end of the unit no posthole was
dug. Unit 7 was the best stratified of all units excavated and produced a large quantity of cultural
material. Two radiocarbon dates were determined from charcoal samples from this unit (see
below). A view of the completed unit is shown as Figure 11 and detailed stratigraphic
information is provided in Figure 12.
Unit 8
Unit 8 was a one -by -two meter unit dug in the northern portion of Locus B to help determine the
extent of the deposit. A backhoe was used to clear overburden from the top 30 cm of soil. The
unit was excavated to 50 cm below this (i.e. 80 cm total). A posthole was dug down an
additional 60 cm (140 cm total). No finds came from the unit. The stratigraphy comprised a
uniform grayish brown aeolian sand (Munsell: IOYR5/2).
29
Figure 11. View of Unit 7 at CA-RIV-6059, Locus B.
Datum (SE Corner
CA-RIV-6059, Unit 7, East Sidewall 60 below ground
surface) i
•G�: -
3 .Decomposed Organic , • ,
4
SA (charcoal lens(; '
S '
"SIB icharcoal lens( .
Key:
1, Finely layered grayish brown aeolian sand (MunseN: t0YR6l2(.
2. Grayish brown aeolian sand with charcoal and cultural material (Munsell: 10YR612).
3, Brown aeolian sand (Munsell: 10YR513(.
4. Brown aeolian sand with unburm vegetal debris (Munsell: 10YR513(.
5. Light brownish gray aeolian sand with charcoal lensing (Munsell: 10YR612(. 0 40 cros.
Note: pollen, macrobotanical, and radiocarbon samples analyzed from layers 2 and SA.
Figure 12. Stratigraphic profile of Unit 7 at CA-RIV-6059, Locus B.
30
Unit 9
Unit 9 was a one -by -two meter unit dug in the eastern portion of Locus B to help determine the
extent and nature of the deposit. An adjacent backhoe trench (N125/W50) had indicated that
dense cultural material was present in the area, particularly charcoal and thermally affected rock.
A backhoe was used to clear overburden from the top 50 cm of soil. The unit was excavated to
120 cm below this (i.e. 170 cm total). A posthole was dug an additional 70 cm in the bottom of
the unit. The unstable sidewalls were continually falling in making the unit rather unphotogenic.
The unit had abundant charcoal and thermally affected rock, along with ceramics, faunal material,
and burned clay. From 0 to 70 cm the unit comprised a grayish brown micaceous sand with
charcoal (Munsell: 10YR5/2). From 70 to 120 cm the soil consisted of light brownish gray sand
(Munsell: 10YR6/2).
Unit 10
Unit 10 was one -by -one meters, dug in the northeastern area of Locus B to help determine the
extent of the deposit. Approximately 35 cm of overburden soil was removed by backhoe prior to
starting the unit. The units was dug to 50 cm (85 cm below ground surface). A small quantity of
ceramics, burned clay, faunal material was recovered and charcoal fragments were evident in the
top 20 cm. A posthole was dug an additional 60 cm into the bottom of the unit. The stratigraphy
was a consistent grayish brown aeolian sand deposit (Munsell: 10YR5/2).
Unit 11
This one -by -one meter unit was dug in the northern portion of Locus be to help determine the
extent of the deposit. Approximately 30 cm of soil was removed from the ground surface by
backhoe prior to starting the unit. The unit was dug to 70 cm (100 cm below ground surface)
and postholed an additional 70 cm. Small bone fragments were found in the unit along with some
charcoal fragments. The unit had grayish brown silty sands to 50 cm (Munsell: 10YR5/2) and
light brownish gray silty sands (Munsell: 10YR6/2) below 50 cm with some compacted silts
evident in the posthole.
Unit Descriptions for CA-RIV-6060
All units excavated at CA-RIV-6060 were dug during the Phase H Test Excavation. The
locations of the units are shown in Figure 6 above.
Unit 1
This one -by -one meter unit was dug to 50 cmwith a posthole in the bottom going down an
additional 65 cm (115 cm total). The soil was a homogeneous light gray aeolian sand (10YR7/2).
The only material recovered consisted of burned clay fragments in the 10-20 cm level.
31 1 ��
Unit 2
This unit was one -by -one meter in size, excavated to a depth of 50 cm with a posthole going
down an additional 60 cm. The only material recovered comprised 5 fragments of burned clay
from the 20-30 cm level. The soil was consistent grayish brown aeolian sand (10YR5/2).
Unit 3
This one -by -one meter unit was excavated in the southern area of the site. It was dug to 80 cm
with a posthole excavated an additional 30 cm. The unit suffered from sidewall collapse. The
stratigraphy consisted of a uniform grayish brown aeolian sand (Munsell: 10YR5/2). The unit
produced faunal remains associated with burned clay and also some ceramics.
Unit 4
Unit 4 was excavated in the central area of Feature 2, a surface rock scatter (see Figures 13 and
15). It was dug to 50 cm with a posthole going an additional 70 cm deep. The soil was a
consistent grayish brown aeolian sand (Munsell: 10YR5/2). Some faunal remains were recovered
from the top two levels.
Unit 5
This unit was dug adjacent to Unit 3 in an effort to sample more of the deposit in that vicinity.
The unit was dug to 50 cm. It was not possible to posthole the unit because the sidewalls were
collapsing. The unit produced pottery, faunal material, and burned clay to 40 cm. The unit had a
uniform grayish brown aeolian sand (Munsell: 10YR5/2).
Unit Description for CA-RIV-6092
The unit excavated at CA-RIV-6092 ((LAQ5) was one -by -one and excavated to a depth of 30
centimeters and then postholed an additional 60 cm (90 cm total). The only material recovered
consisted of burned clay fragments from the top 20 centimeters. The stratigraphy consisted of a
uniform grayish brown aeolian sand (Munsell: 10YR5/2). A view of the completed unit is
presented as Figure 14.
FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS
Feature Descriptions for CA-RIV-6059
Three features were recorded at CA-RIV-6059. These are all surface rock clusters that could
easily be modem or disturbed in nature. See Figure 5 above for the locations of the features.
32
Elm
Figure 13. View of Unit 4 at CA-RIV-6060. The contrast in the sidewall is due
to differential moisture rather than stratigraphic change.
Figure 14. View of Unit 1 at CA-RIV-6092. The contrast in the sidewall is due
to differential moisture rather than stratigraphic change.
33
J
C:
Unit 4
D (�
qz ® o
a Q
o
D
®� o
00
0�
Bone
0
CA-RIV-6060
Feature 2
.j
0
0
O
D
� 0
H
0 cros. 50
t �
00
®— Thermally affected
Figure 15. Plan and photographic view of Feature 2 at CA-RIV-6060.
34
�_.�, v41
It should be noted that it is likely that there are numerous buried prehistoric features located in the
area of Locus B that is being preserved. These could consist of such things as hearths, processing
features, structural remains, and possibly cremation interments.
Feature I
This was a circular alignment of rocks, like a campfire circle, that was probably modern. It was
66 cm in diameter.
Feature 2
This was a loose scatter of surface rocks measuring 85 by 35 cm.
Feature 3
This was another loose scatter of surface rocks measuring approximately 100 cm in diameter.
Feature Descriptions for CA-RIV-6060
The locations of features encountered at CA-RIV-6060 are shown in Figure 6 above.
Feature I
This feature was a prehistoric human cremation interment identified during monitoring for the
Avenue 48 Extension Project. It is discussed in two previous reports (Gray 1998 and Brock
1998). The small pit encountered during monitoring contained charcoal and burned, fragmented
human bone. Of importance to this project is the fact that the only radiocarbon date we have for
CA-RIV-6060 is from this deposit. This date is 350 +/-30 BP (Beta-112309; calibrated results
with 95% probability: AD 1460 to 1645). Also, this feature indicates the potential for
encountering more human cremation interments during grading for the project.
Feature 2
Feature 2 at CA-RIV-6060 was a surface scatter of rocks, some thermally affected. The plan and
photograph of this feature are presented as Figure 15. The feature measured approximately 350
by 250 cm. Unit 4 was excavated in the central area of the feature with negligible findings.
35
,.JI IW
FINDINGS: ANALYSIS OF RECOVERED MATERIAL
GENERAL
Table 2 presents a breakdown, by weight, of the material recovered from the three prehistoric
sites investigated.
MATERIAL
CATALOG
PREFIX
CA-RIV6059
CA-RIV6060
CA-RIV6092
Bead
BE
0.5
Ceramics
CE
2033.8
302.9
84.9
Clay, burDed
CL
2541.1
586.5
967.1
Chipped stone
CS
14.1
Faunal vertebrate
FA
60.7
6.7
0.6
Fresh water shell
FS
5.7
0.3
Glass
GL
19.0
Ground stone
GS
387.6
286.6
39.9
Metal
ME
2.3
Thermally affected rock
TA
4841.5
957.7
9.8
Totals
9835.3
2140.1
1102.3
Table 2. Distribution of materials by weight at the three sites investigated Note: the thermally
affected rock is from the units only.
CA-RIV-6059
Radiocarbon Dating
Three radiocarbon age determinations have been provided by Beta Analytic for CA-RIV-6059.
These are all charcoal samples from Locus B. Table 3 presents a summary of the radiocarbon
data and Appendix 2 presents the analysis for each sample provided by Beta Analytic, Inc.
36
Sample Number
Unit
Depth
Conventional
Calibrated
(cros)
radiocarbon
Results, 2 sigma,
age
95% probability
Beta-116954
7
10-20
190 +/-40 BP
AD 1650-1825
AD 1835-1880
AD 1915-1950
Beta-116955
7
60-70
190+/-50BP
AD 1645-1950
Beta-116956
9
30-40
570+/-40BP
AD 1305-1430
Table 3. Radiocarbon dates from CA-RN6059, Locus B. BP = before present. Present = 1950.
Macrobotanical Results (Steve L. Martin and Virginia S. Popper)
Three samples, comprising a total soil volume of 3 liters, were analyzed. The results of the
macrobotanical analysis for CA-RIV-6059 are presented in Tables 4 and 5. Table 5 presents
absolute counts and weights for the recovered carbonized material and Table 6 presents wood
charcoal absolute counts and weights for the identified specimens. Any identifications which carry
some uncertainty are indicated as cf (compares with).
Seeds are rarely identified to the species level because seeds within the same genus are often
morphologically very similar and carbonization often distorts seeds obscuring diagnostic char-
acteristics. Seeds which are too distorted or fragmented to classify to even the family level are
placed in the Unidentifiable seeds category. One seed was unknown to the analysts and was
designated as unknown type 61. This seed is obovate in outline, flat (1.5 x 2.0 nun) with convex
center, and a smooth surface. Sphaeralcea sp. cf. was the only seed type identified.
The category Cheno-Ams includes a number of species found in the Chenopodiaceae and
Amaranthaceae families whose seeds contain a central endosperm around which the embryo
curves (e.g. Amaranthus, Atriplex, Chenopodium, Suaeda). Seeds placed in this category lack
diagnostic seed coats upon which identifications to the genus or family level are made.
Botanical material that lacked any diagnostic characteristics and could not be positively identified
to a known taxa was placed in the Amorphous category. Amorphous material is typically very
porous, possesses minimal vessel structure, and lacks a distinctive shape.
AMplex sp. (saltbush) and Prosopis sp. (mesquite) were the only wood types identified. These
species are common members of the Creosote Scrub plant community within which the site is
located. The absence of creosote bush (Lirrea tridentata) is probably the result of the small
sample sizes rather than from it not being utilized.
37
Table 4. Provenience information for the analyzed macrobotanical
samples from CA-RIV-6059.
EB No.a
Unit
Layer
Volume (L)
1888
7
2
1.0
1887
9
1
1.0
1886
7
5A
1.0
a The EB number is the accession number of the
UCLA Paleoethnobotany Laboratory.
Table 5. Plant material absolute counts and weights (gm) from CA- .
RIV-6059.
Unit
9 7
TYPE
Laver 1 Laver 2 Laver 5A
SEEDS
Cheno-Ams
5
Sphaeralcea sp. cf.
5
Unknown type 61
1
Unidentifiable seeds
3 3 1
Seed Totala 3 13
PLANT PARTSb
Wood
0.14 4.78 0.07
Fruit (Brassicaceae cf.)
1
Attachment
1
Leaf part
7
Amorphous
0.03
Unknown t>lant cart
3 21
a Seed total includes unidentifiable seeds and fragments
b Weights (in grams) except plant parts.
Table 6. Wood charcoal absolute counts and weights (gm) for CA-
RIV-6059.
9
7
Inver 1
Laver 2 Laver
5A
TYPE
Ct
wt.
Ct
Wt. Ct
Wt
Atriplex sp.
2
0.01
1
0.03 7
0.06
Prosopis sp.
4
0.03
15
2.99
Diffuse porous
1
0.03
Bark
8
0.06
Indeterminate
6
0.04
3
0.04 12
0,01
Total identified 20 0.14 20 3.09 19 0.07
Total wood charcoal 0.14 4.78 0.07
38 IV
The Cahuilla used seeds of saltbush (Atriplex sp.) for food and the leaves and roots, which
contain saponin, as a surfactant (Barrows 1900; Ebeling 1986). Mesquite (Prosopis sp.) was a
very important plant for the Cahuilla providing a relatively large harvest of seed pods ("beans")
during the summer months and edible blossoms in June (Barrows 1900; Ebeling 1986). Its sap
was used to treat wounds and in dye manufacture and its wood was used as fuel and in the
construction of domiciles and various utensils (Strike 1994).
The small size of the sample has apparently resulted in the recovery of few remains. The moderate
wood charcoal densities and unusually large amounts of plant parts suggest large scale burning at
or near the site. Given the near normal charcoal densities and the presence of bone and shell in the
samples, seed processing appears to have been a minor activity at the site.
Pollen Results (Owen K. Davis)
Pollen concentration is low (4300-8600 grains/cc) and preservation moderately poor (37-41%;
Table 7, Figure 16) for all samples analyzed. The pollen assemblage is dominated by
Chenopodiaceae Amaranthus (25-30%), chamise (Adenostoma, 6-14%), and cattail (Typha-
Sparganium, 4-15%). Although the samples are generally similar, sample PSI has more oak,
samples PSI and PS2 have more Asteracae and slightly more Ambrosia, and samples PS2 and
PS3 have greater percentages of cattail and chamise. Charcoal is not extremely abundant in these
samples.
The slight differences between the three samples from CA-RIV-6059 is due in part to vegetation
change. Sample PSI was taken from 50 centimeters above sample PS2, and shows a slightly
more xeric condition than PS2 (as indicated by higher percentages of dryer desert plants).
Possibly PSI was deposited after Lake Cahuilla had started to retreat. PS2, the stratigraphically
lower sample from Unit 7, has higher percentages of cattail and chamise, suggesting more
extensive aquatic vegetation and nearby chaparral. PS3 has similar pollen concentrations as PS2,
which is likewise suggestive of aquatic vegetation and chaparral. Nearby standing water is clearly
suggested by the pollen percentages and is fully consisted with occupation during highstands of
Ancient Lake Cahuilla. Furthermore, dominance of Chenopodiaceae-Amaranthus and presence of
Ambrosia, Artemisia, and Ephedra indicates that the upland vegetation at the time was desert,
similar to that of today. Absence of creosote bush and mesquite pollen probably results from the
low pollen production of these plants and poor preservability of their pollen.
The pollen percentages of the CA-RIV-6059 samples are similar to those of nearby CA-RIV4754
(Table 7, Figure 16; Davis 1997). Although this similarity exists, the vegetation implied by the
CA-RIV-6059 pollen is decidedly more mesic than that suggested by the CA-RIV4754 pollen
samples. Mesic conditions are indicated by greater percentages of woody plant pollen (pine, oak,
chamise, and buckthorn) and fewer desert indicators (Ephedra, Ambrosia). However, the
presence of 4-15% cattail in pollen samples from CA-RIV-6059 and of cattail, sycamore
(Platinus), and willow (Salix) at CA-RIV-4754 (Davis 1997) does document extensive lakeside
vegetation during highstands of Lake Cahuilla.
we,
SAMPLE
CA-RIV-6069
PS1 PS2 PS3
CA-RIV-6060
FEA.1
CA-RIV-4764
001 002 003
sum
300
300
300
6
301
301
16
TRACERS
97
124
193
228
354
228
120
CONC (gr/cc)
8605
6731
4325
73
2366
3673
371
DETERIORATED
110
93
124
52
127
151
11
Abies
0
0
1
0
1
5
0
Cupressaceae
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Pinus total
7
14
6
4
8
7
0
Quercus
18
3
2
1
0
1
0
Adnestoma
18
41
33
0
0
0
0
Ceanothus
17
13
18
0
9
11
0
Ephedra
5
3
2
0
22
34
1
Ambrosia
14
10
1
8
13
28
0
Artemisia
7
3
16
0
10
1
0
Other Compositae
20
32
5
3
14
8
1
Gramineae
10
2
2
8
5
3
0
Chenopodiaceae-Amar.
74
84
90
17
Be
45
2
Onagraceae
0
1
0
0
0
2
0
Typha-Sparganium
13
44
25
4
5
2
0
Fungal Spores
42
21
0
33
123
332
5
Arthropod Feces
3255
381
148
118
35
20
73
Charcoal
5478
638
2999
9558
56
332
21533
Table 7. Pollen counts for CA-RIV-6059, CA-RIV-6060 (Feature
1), and selected types for CA-RIV-4754.
40 I
Ieooj?g3
seoe j podouyuV F.M O°°` — E
sa.iods Ie6un_j Ea°OL — n E
wRlueCuadSeyd�(1�®. ® i —�I�
snqiuejvwv
�®
aeaaelpodouapodoua yO
aeaulmO raE
sepsodwoOJeyPOEo® ®
WSUBW to—
ersojgwyE,® r, m nE
elpayo� ri n r, E
snWoueaO to® ® c
awo2souapy�®
snoien(D �m
snurdcq — =c
GEIV80111�li3G --][
(D01J61 ONOO
N m M O N 8
a a �i o g m�
CA•RIV-6059 CA.RIV.4754
c� {L
41
Faunal Material from CA-RIV-6059 (Thomas A. Wake)
A total of 634 bone specimens (60.73 g) recovered from CA-RIV-6059 have been identified and
analyzed. Forty four various taxonomic categories are represented (including size class
categories). Twenty vertebrate genera and twenty four species are identified (Table 8). The
remaining taxonomic categories consist of bone fragments that are identifiable only to the Family
or Order level, or relative size class category.
The CA-RIV-6059 vertebrate faunal assemblage is dominated by mammals (Figures 17 and 18),
the most common of which are cottontail rabbits (Genus Sylvilagus). Fish, predominantly
razorback suckers (Xyrauchen texanus) and a few bonytail (Gila elegans), and reptiles follow.
Birds are represented by only a few specimens and make a negligible contribution to the overall
assemblage. Excavation Units 7 and 9 have by far the highest densities of bone (Table 9).
Fish
Fish remains have been reported from a number of sites associated with the northern shoreline of
ancient Lake Cahuilla (Follet 1988; Gobalet 1992, 1994; Moffitt and Moffitt 1996; Wilke 1978).
The composition of the RIV-4754 archaeological fish fauna, while somewhat limited in diversity
and number, is representative of the region and comparable to other known assemblages.
Fish represent the second most common class vertebrate animals by count, and the third by
weight, in the RIV-6059 archaeofauna. A total of 91 (3.06 g) fish bone specimens are identified
(Table 8). Many other Salton Basin archaeological sites have similar, or greater representation of
fish bone (Follett 1988; Gobalet 1992). No fish were identified from Locus A. Fish bones in
Locus B are heavily concentrated in Unit 7, with only a single undifferentiated fish fragment
present in Unit 9, and completely absent from all other Units (Table 9).
Three different species of fish are represented (Tables 17 and 18, Figures 19 and 20). Most
(N=50, 2.46 g) of the bone represents 2 species of cypriniform fishes (Order Cypriniformes), the
bonytail (Family Cyprinidae, Gila elegans, N=6, 0.39 g, M1141=1) and the razorback sucker
(Family Catostomidae, Xyrauchen texanus, N=44, 2.07 g, MN1=2). Photographs of these fish are
provided as Figures 21 and 22. One upper precaudal vertebra (0.11 g, MNI=1) representing a
large striped mullet (Perciformes, Mugilidae, Mugil cephalus) was also identified. One (0.03 g)
fragment is referred to the Catostomidae, and six (0.09 g) to the Cypriniformes . The remaining
33 (0.37 g) elements are identifiable only as bony fish (Osteichthyes) remains.
Preservation of the fish bones is good, but some specimens are quite brittle, and some appear
weathered. Few fragile individual head bones are identified. Most Salton Basin archaeological
ichthyofaunas are dominated solely by more durable vertebral elements (Follet 1988; Moffitt and
Moffitt 1996). Vertebral elements do dominate this fish assemblage. The MNI's for both bonytail
and razorbacks were generated by numbers of unique vertebrae (1 vertebrae #6 for bonytail and 1
vertebrae #2 for razorback). Numbers of paired cranial region elements such as pharyngeal tooth
plates (1 L, bonytail) were similar.
42
Table 8. Identified vertebrate species from CA-RIV-6059.
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Gila elegans
Catostomidae
Xyrauchen texanus
Cypriniformes
Perciformes
Mugilidae
Mugil cephalus
Osteichthyes
Anura
Bufonidae
Bufo punctatus
Chelonia
Testudinidae
Gopherus agassizii
Squamata - Sauria
Iguanidae
Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Callisaurus draconoides
Uma inornata
Sceloporus magister
Squamata - Serpentes
Colubridae
Masticophis sp
Viperidae
Crotalus sp
Serpentes
Chub - Bonytail
6
.39
Sucker Family
1
.03
Sucker - Razorback
44
2.07
Minnow Order
6
.09
Cypriniformes
---- ----------
57
2.58
Mullet - Striped
1
.11
Perciformes
--------------
1
.11
Fish - Bony
33
.37
--------------
33
.37
Total Fish
---- ----------
91
3.06
Toad - Red -spotted
1
.02
Total Amphibian
---- ----------
1
.02
Tortoise - Desert
4
17.88
Chelonia
--------------
4
17.88
Iguana
1
.01
Iguana - Desert
14
.24
Lizard - Zebra -tailed
2
.04
Lizard - Coachella V. Fringe
1
.01
Lizard - Desert Spiny
1
.03
Colubrid Snake Family
2
.13
Whip Snake - Unid
9
.22
Rattlesnake - Unid
1
.05
Snake suborder - Unid
1
.01
Squamata
32
.74
-
Total Reptile
---- ----------
36
18.62
43
Table S. Identified vertebrate species from CA-RIV-6059 (continued).
Anseriformes
Anatidae
Anas crecca
Anas sp
Anas sp, sm
Aves
Aves, lg
Aves, and
Aves, sm
Lagomorpha
Leporidae
Lepus californicus
Sylvilagus audubonii
Sylvilagus sp
Rodentia
Sciuridae
Ammospermcphilus leucurus
Geomyidae
Thomomys bottae
Heteromyidae
Dipodomys deserti
Dipodomys merriami
Dipodomys sp
Perognathus californicus
Cricetidae
Neotoma lepida
Neotoma sp
Rodentia
Rodentia, sm
Carnivora
Canidae
Canis latrans
Artiodactyla
Teal
- Common (European Teal)
Duck
- Unidentified
Duck
- Small
Anseriformes
Bird
- Unid
Bird
- Large
Bird
- Medium
Bird
- Small
Total Bird
7
1
1
2
1
3
3
1.01
.09
.24
1.34
.10
.16
.21
.05
.52
1.86
Hare, Rabbit Family 17 1.10
Jackrabbit - Black -tailed 3 .66
Cottontail - Audubon's 12 2.72
Rabbit - Unid 68 15.39
Lagomorpha 100 19.87
Squirrel, Chipmunk Family
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
Kangaroo Rat - Desert
Kangaroo Rat - Merriam's
Kangaroo Rat - Unid
Pocket Mouse - Californicus
Wood Rat - Desert
Wood Rat - Unid
Rodent - Unid
Rodent - Small
Rodentia
Coyote
Carnivora
Even -toed Ungulates - Unid
Artiodactyla
44
1
54
7
1
1
1
1
5
7
46
5
129
.01
2.61
.58
.05
.01
.01
.04
.33
1.55
.78
.21
6.18
1
.07
--------------
1
.07
1
.51
---- ----------
1
.51
Table 8. Identified vertebrate species from CA-RIV-6059 (continued).
Mamma1ia
Mammal
- Unid
68
2.33
Mammalia, lg
Mammal
- Large
1
.25
---lia, and
Mammal
- Medium
3
.61
Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
185
7.35
258 11.05
---- ----------
Total Mammal 488 37.17
45
---- ----------
TOTAL TAXA: 634 60.73
2 0),
Figure 17. Distribution of animal bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6059.
Fi4(14%)
i..n.—nrrn
Figure 18. Distribution of animal bone by weight (gm) at CA-RIV-6059.
wpri
Class
Count
Weight(g)
----------------------------
Fish
91
3.06
Amphibian
1
.02
Reptile
42
18.62
Bird
18
1.66
Mammal
488
37.17
TOTAL:
----------------
640
60.73
46 a � /
Feat. Locus Trench
------------------------
I A
1 A
1 A
1 A
1 A
1 A
1 A
1 A
1 A
1 A
------------------------
Unit Total
------------------------
A
A
-----------------------
Unit Total
-----------------------
A
A
A
A
A
-----------------------
Unit Total
-----------------------
-----------------------
A
-----------------------
Unit Total
_a_.-_«____«-
A
-.«-«-_s«=----------
A
A
A
-----------------------
Unit Total
-----------------------
A
A
A
-----------------------
Unit Total
a«« ----------ate.
A N017.0/W163
------- A---N011 0/W111
A N017.0/W171
A N017.0/W171
-----------------------
Trench Total
----------------------
A N021.0/W163
A N021.0/W163
A N021.0/W163
A N021.0/W163
A N021.0/W163
-----------------------
Trench Total
------- A--N021.0/W161
A N021.0/W16
A N021.0/W167
A N021.0/W16
-----------------------
Trench Total
Table 9. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6059.
Unit Level
Taxon
Common
Name
__________________________________________________________________
000-010
Crotalus sp
Rattlesnake - Unid
000-010
Aves
Bird -
Unid
000-010
Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
000-010
Ammospermophilus
leucurus Ground
Squirrel - Antelope
000-010
Neotoma lepida
Wood Rat - Desert
000-010
Rodentia
Rodent
- Unid
000-010
Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
000-010
Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
010-020
Rodentia
Rodent
- Unid
010-020
Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
2 000-010 Artiodaetyla
2 000-010 Mammalia
2 000-010 Mammalia, sm
4 000-010 Sylvilagus sp
4 000-010 Leporidae
4 000-010 Rodentia
4 000-010 Mammalia
4 000-010 Mammalia, sm
9 000-000 Mammalia
s- 15 000 000Mammalia md
------------------------
16 Mammalia
16 000-000 Mammalia, sm
18 000-000 Mammalia, sm
------_-_.--e------«------
21 Colubridae
21 000-000 Sylvilagus sp
21 000-000 Thomomys bottae
66 Neotoma lepida
66 000-000 Lepus californicus
66 000-000 Rodentia
66 000-000 Mammalia, sm
Even -toed Ungulates - Unid
Mammal - Unid
Mammal - Small
Rabbit - Unid
Hare, Rabbit Family
Rodent - Unid
Mammal - Unid
Mammal - Small
Mammal - Unid
- Mammal -Medium
---------------
Mammal - Unid
Mammal - Small
Mammal - Small
-----------------------
Colubrid Snake Family
Rabbit - Unid
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
Wood Rat - Desert
Jackrabbit - Black -tailed
Rodent - Unid
Mammal - Small
000-000
------------------------------------------------------------
Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
000-000
Leporidae
Hare, Rabbit Family
000-000
Ammospermophilus
leucurus Ground
Squirrel - Antelope
000-000
Rodentia
Rodent
- Unid
000-000 Serpentes
000-000 Aves
000-000 Neotoma lepida
000-000 Rodentia
000-000 Marmalia
000-000 Sceloporus magizter
000-000 Sylvilagus sp
000-000 Mammalia
000-000 Mammalia, sm
47
Snake suborder - Unid
Bird - Unid
Wood Rat - Desert
Rodent - Unid
Mammal - Unid
Lizard - Desert Spiny
Rabbit - Unid
Mammal - Unid
Mammal - Small
Ct Weight
1 .05
1 .05
2 .13
2 .10
1 .02
2 .02
5 .09
3 .06
2 .06
2 .02
21 59
1 51
1 .08
1 .04
----------
3 .63
3------21
1 .20
3 .1i
9 .15
9 .47
25 1.20
1-----04
-1 .31
-1 - 06
1 .09
----------
2 .15
- -- -- 1
1------11
2 .9i
1 .06
----- 4 1.14
-1------15
1 .27
1 .02
1 .04
4 .48
1 .21
2 .06
1 .01
4 .28
=----------
1 .05
1 .07
1 .02
1 .01
5 .16
:-1--=--03
.01
2 .11
1 .05
5 .20
Table 9. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6059 (continued).
Feat.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Locus
Trench
Unit
Level Taxon
Common
Name
Ct
Weight
-----------------------------------------------=-----------------.---------a-_------------------------.----
A
N021.0/W171
000-000 Mammalia
Mammal
Unitl
1
.01
A
N021.0/W171
000-000 Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
1
.10
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
2
.11
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A
N021.0/W'175
000-000 Mammalia, am
Mammal
- Small
1
.04
__'______`_____`-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A
N025.0/W167
000-000 Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
1
.10
..«<s«.----=
A
-----------
N029.0/W175
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
000-000 Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
1
.34
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A
N033.0/W179
000-000 Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
1
.06
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A
N033.0/W191
000-000 Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
2
.16
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
A
N037.0/W175
000-000 Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
1
.11
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A
N041.0/W167
000-000 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
1
.05
A
N041.0/W167
000-000 Mammalia, and
Mammal
- Medium
1
.18
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
2
.23
--------------------------
A
N041.0/W171
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
000-000 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground
Squirrel - Antelope
1
.08
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
A
N041.0/W175
000-000 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
1
.11
A
N041.0/WI75
000-000 Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
5
.32
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
6
.43
--- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------'
Loaoa
Total
95
6.99
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B
3
000-010 Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
1
.02
--'-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B
6
040-050 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
2
.05
B
6
040-050 Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid
2
.07
B
6
060-070 Mammalia
Mammal
- Unid -
3
.05
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
Unit Total
7
.17
--------------------------------------------------------------•--•----------------------------------------:
B
7
000-010 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
2
.34
B
1
000-010 Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
15
.92
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Level
Total
11
1.26
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
B
7
010-020 Lepus californlcus
Jackrabbit - Black -tailed
1
.27
B
7
010-020 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
4
.79
8
1
010-020 Leporidae
Hare, Rabbit Family
6
.22
B
7
010-020 Neotoma sp
Wood Rat - Unid
2
.06
B
7
010-020 Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
24
.56
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
Level
Total
37
1.90
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B
7
020-030 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
2
.39
B
7
020-030 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground
Squirrel - Antelope
1
.04
B
7
020-030 Thomomys bottae
Pocket
Gopher - Botta's
1
.03
B
7
020-030 Rodentia
Rodent
- Unid
1
.02
B
7
020-030 Mammali a, sm
Mammal
- Small
7
.26
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
Level
Total
12
.74
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
B
7
030-040 Xyrauchen texanus
Sucker
- Razorback
1
.03
B
7
030-040 Aves, and
Bird -
Medium
1
.10
B
7
030-040 Sylvilagus audubonii
Cottontail
- Audubon's
2
.49
B
7
030-040 Mammalia, am
Mammal
- Small
2
.05
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
Level
Total
6
.67
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
B
7
040-050 Gila elegans
Chub -
Bonytail
2
.16
B
7
040-050 Xyrauchen texanus
Sucker
- Razorback
3
.12
B
7
040-050 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit
- Unid
2
.06
B
7
040-050 Rodentia
Rodent
- Unid
1
.03
B
7
040-050 Mammalia, sm
Mammal
- Small
2
.09
_____________
Level
Total
_--------------_-_--------_-____-----_---____________-_--______-___-_-_-___------
30
46
m
Table 9. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6059 (continued).
Feat.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Locus Trench
Unit
Level Taxon
Common Name
Ct
Weight
B
7
050-060 Gila elegans
Chub - Bonytail
2
.05
B
7
050-060 Xyrauchen texanus
Sucker - Razorback
27
1.10
B
7
050-060 Catostomidae
Sucker Family
1
.03
B
7
050-060 Cypriniformes
Minnow Order
5
.08
B
7
050-060 Mugil cephalus
Mullet - Striped
1
.11
8
7
050-060 Osteichthyes
Fish - Bony
10
.12
B
7
050-060 Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Iguana - Desert
1
.01
B
7
050-060 Iquanidae
Iguana
1
.01
S
7
050-060 Masticophis sp
Whip Snake - Unid
1
.02
B
7
050-060 Aves, sm
Bird - Small
2
.04
B
7
050-060 Sylvilagus audubonii
Cottontail - Audubon's
4
.66
B
7
050-060 Leporidae
Hare, Rabbit Family
6
.27
B
7
050-060 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
3
.08
B
7
050-060 Thomomys bottae
Pocket Gopher - Botts's
1
.12
B
7
050-060 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
5
.12
B
7
050-060 Mammalia, sm
Mamnal - Small
11
.34
______________________________________________________________________________________-________________
Level
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Total
81
3.16
B
7
060-070 Gila elegans
Chub - Bonytail
1
.15
B
7
060-070 Xyrauchen texanus
Sucker - Razorback
10
.65
B
7
060-070 Osteichthyes
Fish - Bony
9
.11
B
7
060-070 Anas crecca
Teal - Common )European Teal)
4
.32
B
7
060-070 Anas sp
Duck - Unidentified
1
.09
B
7
060-070 Aves, and
Bird - Medium
1
.08
B
7
060-070 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
1
.04
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
7
060-070 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.08
Level
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Total
34
1.52
B
7
070-080 Osteichthyes
Fish - Bony
12
.11
B
7
070-080 Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Iguana - Desert
1
.01
B
7
070-080 Anas crecca
Teal - Common (European Teal)
3
.69
B
7
070-080 Leporidae
Hare, Rabbit Family
1
.05
B
7
070-080 Perognathus californicus
Pocket Mouse - Californicus
1
.04
e
7
070-080 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
1
.01
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
7
070-080 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.03
Level
__________________________________________________________________-___-_--__________________-_-__________
Total
20
.94
B
7
080-090 Gila elegans
Chub - Bonytail
1
.03
B
7
080-090 Xyrauchen texanus
Sucker - Razorback
1
.02
S
7
060-090 Cypriniformes
Minnow Order
1
.01
B
7
080-090 Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Iguana - Desert
3
.07
B
7
080-090 Aves, sm
Bird - Small
1
.01
B
7
080-090 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
2
.10
B
7
080-090 Leporidae
Hare, Rabbit Family
2
.15
B
7
090-090 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
3
.15
B
7
080-090 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
5
.06
B
7
090-090 Rodentia, sm
Rodent - Small
1
.01
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
7
080-090 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
15
.21
Level
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Total
35
.82
B
7
090-100 Aves, 1g
Bird - Large
1
.16
B
7
090-100 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
3
.04
B
7
090-100 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
2
.01
___
B
7
090-100 Mammalia, am
Mammal - Small
9
.24
Level
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________
Total
IS
45
S
7
100-110 Aves, and
Bird - Medium
1
.03
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
7
100-110 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
1
.02
Level
_____________________
Total
2
.05
Unit Total
-------------------- __
__------------------------------------------
______________________ ________________
____________________
269
11.97
B
9
000-010 Ammospermophilus leucurus
e=- Antelope
Ground Squirrel Antelo e
1
03
B
9
000-010 Dipodomys sp
Kangaroo Rat - Unid
1
.01
B
9
000-010 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
1
.03
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
9
000-010 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.01
Level
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total
4
.08
49
20e
Table 9. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6059 (continued).
Feat. Locus Trench Unit Level Taxon Common Name Ct Weight
B
9
010-020 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
1
.03
B
9
010-020 Neotoma lepida
Wood Rat - Desert
1
.03
B
9
010-020 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
B
.24
B
9
010-020 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
3
.13
___________________________________________________________________________--___-___----________________-.
Level
Total
13
.43
_________________________________________________________________________-__-__-_______-__-____________.
B
9
020-030 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
1
.16
B
9
020-030 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
4
.08
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
B
9
020-030 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
2
.02
Level
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Total
7
.28
B
9
030-040 Gopherus agassizii
Tortoise - Desert
l
5.33
B
9
030-040 Uma inornata
Lizard - Coachella V. Fringe
1
.01
B
9
030-040 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
3
.10
B
9
030-040 Thomomys bottae
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
1
.06
B
9
030-040 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
3
.02
B
9
030-040 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
B
.11
B
9
030-040 Mammalia, lg
Mammal - Large
1
.25
B
9
030-040 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.02
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Level
__________________________________________________________________-_--_________-__________-__-____-______.
Total
25
_-__.
5.90
B
9
040-050 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
2
.19
B
9
040-050 Thomomys bottae
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
1
.04
B
9
040-050 Dipodomys merriami
Kangaroo Rat - Merriam's
1
.01
B
9
040-050 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
4
.04
B
9
040-050 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
2
.01
B
9
040-050 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.01
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Level
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Total
11
.30
B
9
050-060 eufo punctatus
Toad - Red -spotted
1
.02
B
9
050-060 Colubridae
Colubrid Snake Family
1
.02
B
9
050-060 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
1
.06
B
9
050-060 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
9
.27
B
9
050-060 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
1
.01
8
9
050-060 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
12
.27
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Level
Total
25
.65
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
9
060-070 Osteichthyes
Fish - Bony
2
.03
B
9
060-070 Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Iguana - Desert
1
.02
B
9
060-070 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
3
.14
B
9
060-070 Neotoma lepida
Wood Rat - Desert
1
.06
B
9
060-070 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
2
.07
8
9
060-070 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
B
.17
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Level
Total
19
.49
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
9
070-080 Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Iguana - Desert
4
.06
B
9
070-080 Callisaurus draconcides
Lizard - Zebra -tailed
2
.04
B
9
070-080 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
2
.19
B
9
070-080 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
2
.12
B
9
090-080 Sciuridae
Squirrel, Chipmunk Family
1
.01
B
9
00-080 Thomomys bottae
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
1
.07
B
9
070-080 Dipodomys deserti
Kangaroo Rat - Desert
1
.05
B
9
070-080 Neotoma sp
Wood Rat - Unid
1
.15
B
9
070-080 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
3
.04
B
9
070-080 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
3
.05
B
9
070-080 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
13
.32
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Level
Total
33
1.10
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B
9
100-110 Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Iguana - Desert
1
.01
B
9
100-110 Lepus cali£ornicus
Jackrabbit - Black -tailed
1
.12
B
9
100-110 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
1
.03
B
9
100-110 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
2
.02
B
9
100-110 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
5
.51
-__-----_
Level
Total
________________________________________________________________________________
30
69
Unit
Total
145
9.92
50
Table 9. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6059 (continued).
Feat. Locus
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------'
Trench
Unit
Level Taxon
Common Name
Ct
Weight
B
10
010-020 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
1
.06
B
10
010-020 Neotoma sp
Wood Rat - Unid
1
.32
B
10
010-020 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
2
.25
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unit Total
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4
.63
B
11
020-030 Masticophis sp
Whip Snake - Unid
1
.02
B
11
020-030 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
1
.10
B
11
020-030 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
1
.04
B
11
030-040 Masticophis sp
Whip Snake - Unid
5
.13
B
11
030-040 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
5
.06
B
11
040-050 Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Iguana - Desert
3
.06
B
11
040-050 Masticophis sp
Whip Snake - Unid
2
.05
B
11
040-050 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
1
.02
B
11
040-050 Mammalia, and
Mammal - Medium
1
.12
B
11
040-050 Mammalia, sA
Mammal - Small
1
.01
B
11
050-060 Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
1
.03
B
11
050-060 Rodentia
Rodent - Unid
4
.05
B
11
060-070 Thomomys bottae
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
1
.20
B
11
060-070 Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.01
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.
Unit Total
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28
.90
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B
N015.0/W
75
Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.10
B
NOB3.5/W
75
Mammalia, sm
Mamal - Small
1
.27
.as."``------a.-.a---------------•""---_.--..--....---.-----------.-----.-----.---...."""""""'_.
B
N087.5/W1OO
Xyrauchen texanus
Sucker - Razorback
1
.08
B
N081.5/W100
Gopherus agassizii
Tortoise - Desert
1
.15
B
N087.5/W100
Sylvilagus audubonii
Cottontail - Audubon's
3
.90
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
5
1.13
B
N100.0/W
15
Sylvilagus an
Rabbit - Unid
6
1.54
B
N100.0/W
15
Neotoma sp
Wood Rat - Unid
1
.40
B
N100.0/W
75
Rodentia, sm
Rodent - Small
1
.07
B
N100.0/W
75
Mammalia, am
Mammal - Small
3
.27
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
11
2.28
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B
N100.0/W100
Gopherus agassizii
Tortoise - Desert
2
12.40
B
N100.0/W100
Anas sp, sm
Duck - Small
1
.24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B
N100.0/W100
Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
2
1.35
Trench
Total
5
13.99
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B
N112.5/W125
Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
1
.08
«m...
a-----------------------------•_______
B
N125.0/W
31.5
---P_._---------..--...-a.«.-_---___s��.�_�_�z«___�z=_
Sylvilagus s
Rabbit Unid
1
15
B
N125.0/W
37.5
Canis latrans
Coyote
1
.07
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
2
.22
S
N125.0/W
50
Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit Unid
5
1.05
S
N125.0/W
50
Neotoma sp
Wood Rat - Unid
1
.33
B
N125.0/W
50
Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
2
.12
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
.......
-----
8
1.50
B
=
N125.0/W
=-s_------""_""
75
________P--------------------`"""`_`_------a«_------...�.
Sylvilagus s
Rabbit Unid
1
26
B
N125.0/W
15
Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
1
.11
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
2
.37
B
N125.0/W125
Sylvilagus Sp
Rabbit Unid
11
6.85
B
N125.0/W125
Neotoma sp
Wood Rat - Unid
1
.29
B
N125.0/W125
Rodentia, sm
Rodent - Small
3
.13
B
N125.0/W125
Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
12
.81
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench
Total
33
9.06
cBv
N131.5/W'125
t if9'c
a_« '@ Sylvilagusaudubonii"i '`
- ...-__.
Cottontail Audubon's
3
fii 61
51 � ��
Table 9. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RN-6059 (continued).
Feat. Locus Trench Unit Level Taxon Common Name Ct Weight
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B N150.0/W 95 8yrauchen texanus Sucker - Razorback 1 .07
B N150.0/W 75 Ammospermophilus leucurus Ground Squirrel - Antelope 16 1.04
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trench Total 17 1.11
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B N170.0/w 50 Mammalia, sm Mammal - Small 1 .11
B N170.0/W 75 Sylvilagus sp Rabbit - Unid 1 .22
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
�tal 545 53.74
__Z---------------------------------«<----.----------. --------_--------4-----6-e-ea-
3IS'f � � W O 60.73
52
Figure 19. Distribution of fish bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6059.
vp��(W.,
C.... pn,
0w�-On
■.a.e�(M,
Figure 20. Distribution of fish bone by weight (gm) at CA-RIV-6059.
S.hp WK,
(IMI
qbf
Taxon Count Weight(g)
Gila elegans
6
.39
Xyrauchen texanus
44
2.07
Catostomidae
1
.03
Cypriniformes
6
.09
Mugil cephalus
1
.11
Osteichthyes
33
.37
TOTAL:
----------------
91
3.06
53 D
L S1 Y }\
V i 'aU _ ^i
Figure 21. Boneytail, approximately1 cm. long.r - r•Deacon 1
--t _,
Figure 22. Male razorback sucker. Source: Minckley and Deacon (1991:304)
54 G�'
Salton Basin Fishes
The bonytail and razorback are native to the Colorado River system. Both of these species were
originally most common in the rapidly flowing, turgid waters of the lower Colorado River, from
the Grand Canyon down. Gobalet (1992:76) believes that ancient Lake Cahuilla, fed by nutrient
laden Colorado River waters, was a plankton rich environment and could have supported large
numbers of filter feeding razorbacks and omnivorous bonytail and striped mullet. The striped
mullet is a euryhaline species that ascends the Colorado from the Gulf of California. 'The only
predatory fish species known from northern Salton basin archaeological sites, the Colorado
squawfish (Ptychocheilus lucfus), and the machete (Elops affrnfs) could both have feasted on
young bonytail and razorbacks. However, no squawfish or machete are identified at RIV-4754.
Gobalet and Wake (n.d.) report the discovery of a single pupfish (Cyprinidon) vertebra from a
non -archaeological late Holocene paleontological assemblage, and suggests that small fish species
such as woundfish (Plagopterus argentissimus), Gila topminnow (Poeciliopsis occidentahs), and
desert pupfish (Cyprinodon macularis) might eventually turn up in archaeological assemblages
when the possibility of their presence is considered prior to excavation (1 mm mesh screens
should be used for some samples).
It is generally believed that the fish species found at the study area and other local archaeological
sites were delivered to ancient Lake Cahuilla during the late Holocene, when the Colorado River
periodically left its banks and flooded into the Salton Basin, filling it and dramatically changing the
local environment from desert to lacustrine (Wilke 1976:194). At least four, and possibly five,
individual lake filling events are believed to have occurred throughout the late Holocene (Hubbs
and Miller 1948; Laylander 1995; Schaefer 1994; Sutton and Wilke 1988; Waters 1983; Wilke
1976). During its high stand, Lake Cahuilla lay at 12 in above sea level, had a depth of 95 in, and
covered over 5700 km2 (Waters 1983:374). These lacustrine intervals of roughly 100 to 250
years must have had profound influences on past human subsistence and settlement patterns.
Razorback sucker (Xvrauchen texanus)
Razorbacks, the most common fish species at RIV-6059, are also well represented at many other
Salton Basin archaeological sites (Gobalet 1992, 1994; Gobalet and Wake n.d.). Razorbacks are
one of the two most common archaeological fish species in the region. In many sites razorbacks
are the dominant fish species (Follett 1988; Gobalet 1992, 1994, Moffitt and Moffitt 1996; Wilke
1978).
Razorback suckers have adapted to meet the ecological conditions found in the various swift
water drainages that constitute the lower Colorado River system (Moyle 1976:173). Razorbacks
are relatively robust, but for a sucker (Catostomidae) they have a relatively streamlined body, with
a prominent hump behind and above the head, capped by a sharp keel, and large fins. It is
believed that the fishes shape is a result of adaptation to the swift water of the lower Colorado
55
oz��
River and helps the fish to maneuver and stay on the bottom in the face of strong currents during
seasonal floods (Moyle 1976).
Razorback suckers are filter feeders and therefore quite selective in their food choices. They are
primarily planktivores, straining out most small food items floating in the water column with their
long gill rakers and specialized pharyngeal teeth (Papoulias and Minkley 1990). Gut contents of
34 preserved razorbacks from Lake Mojave included planktonic crustaceans, rotifers, diatoms,
detritus, and filamentous algae (Marsh and Papoulias 1987:117). These fish grow to a large size,
attaining average lengths of up to 1 m and weights of 7 kg, but fish over 60 cm and 4.5 kg are
unusual (Moyle 1976:230). Spawning typically occurs in the spring in tributaries or shallow lake
waters over silty sand, gravel, or rocks (Moyle 1976:230). Spawning females are often attended
by groups of up to 12 males (Moyle 1976:230).
While relatively small, the sample of razorback bones was large enough to permit analysis of size
and age, like that performed on the bonytail (Gila elegans) bone from RIV-6060 detailed below
and on bonytail remains from RIV-4754 (Wake 1997). No proatlas vertebrae were identified, so
revisiting Casteel's (1976:138-141) analysis of growth rates was not possible. One observation is
apparent though. The razorback bones from RIV-6059 are all of relatively uniform size; none are
strikingly small and none are really large. Gobalet and Wake (n.d.) note that this pattern is
common throughout virtually all known Salton Basin archaeological fish assemblages and believe
that this uniformity in size may have something to do with procurement practices (see below).
Age Determination
Two separate metrical analyses were conducted in order to gain information concerning the size,
and therefore, the age structure of the fish population represented in the excavated sample from
RTV-6059. 1) Size (centrum length) of the thoracic vertebrae (upper precaudal in the catalog) in
the archaeological sample was used to estimate the skeletal lengths of the Xyrauchen individuals
constituting the majority of the RIV-6059 fish sample. The proportional method described by
Casteel (1976:104-117) was used. 2) The growth annuli on the same thoracic vertebrae were also
counted, averaged, and compared to the annuli of the comparative skeletal specimens, which are
of known length and can be assigned to an age class following Vanicek and Kramer (1969). A
complete annulus usually corresponds to one year of growth (Casteel 1976).
Length Determination
Average size (length) of the razorbacks from RIV-6059 was determined using the proportional
method described and discussed by Casteel (1976:105-117). First, a representative sample of five
thoracic vertebrae were selected from three excavation unit level bags (Unit 7, Levels 40-50, 50-
60, 60-70). Thoracic vertebrae were chosen since they are readily identifiable as Xyrauchen.
These skeletal elements lack the laterally projecting, anterio-posterially angled transverse
processes on each side of the centrum that articulate with equivalent projections on the respective
conjoining parapophyses that the ribs attach to that are distinctive of Gila. They also lack
longitudinal bony laminae in the dorsal cavity of the centra. Neither Ptychocheilus (squawfish -
56
vertebrae have bony laminae in dorsal cavity), or Mugil (striped mullet - vertebrae are perforate
and dissected), the other most commonly encountered fish species in Salton Basin archaeological
sites, have this exact thoracic vertebral morphology.
The samples discussed here were chosen because each subsample contained the only thoracic
vertebrae available. Incomplete upper thoracic vertebral centra were rejected. Complete
vertebral centra are necessary in order to accurately measure their respective lengths and account
for all available growth annuli. In total, five archaeological Xyrauchen thoracic vertebrae were
measured (Table 10). All measurements were taken with digital calipers.
To serve as a comparison, lengths of 10 of the post-weberian thoracic vertebrae of one individual
Xyrauchen texamrs (CAS 26235) were measured (Table 10). Average thoracic lengths were then
calculated for the specimen (CAS 26235:4.329 mm). An overall sample average was calculated
(4.12 mm). The average archaeological sample length was then plugged into an equation to
determine the estimated size of the fish.
The following basic algebraic equation was used:
R (comp. spec.) SL (Comp. spec.)
R (sample) x
where X is the average of the respective measured thoracic vertebrae, SL is the measured skeletal
length of the comparative specimen, and x equals estimated average skeletal length of the
archaeological fish. The following equations was generated and solved, yielding the size estimate
listed below. The actual equations are:
Based on CAS 26235
4.33 282.79
-- _ -- x=269.08
4.12 x
Estimated skeletal length = 269.08 mm
The size estimates refer to the average length of the skeleton (measured from the tip of the
premaxilla to the end of the hypural). The actual (total length) average length of the fishes would
be somewhat longer (up to 50 mm) if the presence of the caudal fin rays is taken into account.
57
Table 10. Xyrauchen teranus upper thoracic verterbral lengths (in mm).
CAS 26235
RIV-6059, Unit 7
4.46
3.90 (40-50)
4.62
4.13 (50-60)
4.34
3.85 (50-60)
4.54
4.65 (60-70)
4.27
4.05 (60-70)
4.26
4.36
4.17
4.23
4.04
4.33 (Average)
4.12 (Average)
Table 11. CA-RIV-6059, Unit 7, Xyrauchen texanus upper thoracic verterbal lengths (in mm).
40-50
50-60
60-70
8
7
8
8
7
Average: 7.6
m
.Ju
Annuli Counts
Counting growth annuli is an excellent way of determining age and season of death in variou
vertebrates, especially fish. Growth annuli can be found on many different fish bones includin
the operculum, vertebrae, scales, and otoliths. These annuli are usually deposited in a yearly cycl
similar to tree rings, with rapid growth occurring during period of warmer weather and great(
food availability, and slower growth occurring during period of lower temperatures and less(
resource availability. A seasonal annulus typically consists of a band of diffuse bone grading int
a band of denser bone. Rapid growth produces the relatively diffuse annulus deposits and slow(
growth typically leads to denser bands. The operating assumption is that one complete annulu
equates to one year of life.
Casteel (1976:138-141) has calculated a growth rate for Xyrauchen texanus at Lake Cahuill
based on number and size of annuli from one proatlas vertebra. The proatlas he studied has 1
annuli (Casteel 1976:140). It was not possible to make a direct comparison to this study since n
razorback proatlas vertebrae are present in the RIV-6059 collection.
Annuli on the same Xyrauchen thoracic vertebrae discussed above were counted and averaged t
provide a mean age for the entire sample. Thoracic vertebral annuli were also counted on th
comparative Xyrauchen specimens (CAS 26235) to serve as a control. All annuli were counte
using a binocular stereo zoom dissecting microscope.
When I first began counting annuli I attempted to count each obvious ring on each vertebra. Th
rapidly became quite frustrating. After viewing the whole sample to be counted and considerir
the comparative specimens, relatively consistent, regular patterns of yearly annuli becan ;
apparent, but were still subtle. I counted one relatively dense ring and the abutting of a relative
diffuse ring as a complete annulus. Annulus counts and averages for the sampled vertebrae a
detailed in Table 11.
The annulus count for the comparative specimen (CAS 26235) is seven (7). The average annul
count for the five sampled vertebrae is 7.6, with a range of 7 to 8. An overall average age f
seven and one-half years is suggested.
Bonytail (Gila elegans)
Bonytail, the second most common fish species at RIV-6059 (Table 8, Figures 19 and 20), a
well represented at many other Salton Basin archaeological sites (Gobalet 1992, 1994; Gobal t
and Wake n.d.; Moffitt and Moffitt 1996). Bonytail are one of the two most comm( r
archaeological fish species in the region in general, the other being razorback sucker (Foll( t
1980, Gobalet 1992, 1994; Wilke 1978). Bonytail are part of a three species complex (Gi I
cypha, Gila elegans, Gila robusta) that have adapted to meet specific ecological conditions foul i
in the various drainages that constitute the lower Colorado River system (Moyle 1976:172 .
Possible hybridization resulting in apparently intermediate forms has caused some confusion ov r
59
a��
the placement of species in this complex, and some have considered Gila elegans and Gila
robusta to be sister subspecies of Gila robusta (i.e. Gila robusta elegans and Gila robusta
robusta, Gobalet 1992:74; Kaeding et al. 1986; Holden and Stalnaker 1970). However, it is now
generally accepted that Gila elegans is a valid species (Gobalet 1992, 1994; Moyle 1976).
Bonytail have a streamlined body, a hump behind and above the head, large fins and a long tail. It
is believed that the shape of these fishes is a result of adaptation to the swift water of the lower
Colorado River and helps them to maneuver and stay on the bottom in the face of strong currents
during seasonal floods (Moyle 1976). Bonytail are not selective in their food choices, eating
virtually anything in or on the water including filamentous algae, plant debris, insects, insect
larvae, planktonic animals, and occasional small fish (Vanicek and Kramer 1969). These fish
grow quickly in the first three years of their lives, attaining average lengths of 158 mm and
weights of 31 g by their third year (Vanicek and Kramer 1969:200). Growth slows after their
fourth year, when they reach sexual maturity and begin to spawn at sizes of 258 mm and 129 g.
Bonytail have been observed spawning over gravel beds, broadcasting their adhesive eggs widely
(Jonez and Sumner 1954).
Unfortunately the six identified bonytail specimens from RIV-6059 do not represent a large
enough sample to conduct size and age analysis along the lines of RIV-6060 (detailed below) or
RIV-4754 (Wake 1997).
Striped mullet Wugil cephalus)
Ken Gobalet (1992, 1994, Personal Communication 1997) indicates that striped mullet are
generally rare in Lake Cahuilla area archaeological fish assemblages, although they were
apparently much more common in the Salton Basin earlier in the 20th century (Dill 1944; Moyle
1976). Follett (1988) has reported finding large numbers of striped mullet otoliths (up to 220
saggitae) at various locations in the Salton Basin. The striped mullet is a marine species that
breeds in offshore waters, although Moyle (1976:342) implies that some spawning may occur in
fresh water. Striped mullet typically ascend up to 190 km up the Colorado River and return to the
Gulf of California to spawn.
Striped mullet are thick bodied fish with broad, flat heads and small, terminal mouths. They have
long gill rakers and typically filter fine detritus that they scoop from the bottom in shallow waters.
Ancient Lake Cahuilla would have represented fine habitat for this species with its calm waters
and high productivity. Representation of striped mullet at RIV-6059 is consistent with its relative
abundance at other Salton Basin archaeological localities.
Procurement and Processine
Fish were clearly an important part of the diet at RIV-6059. However, their acquisition by the
site's occupants is somewhat problematic. Bean (1970:68) notes in his dissertation that "'three or
four hundred years ago, fish played an important part in the Cahuilla diet." Bean (1.970:68)
mentions that both the use of nets and bows and arrows to capture fish is recorded in Cahuilla
60
c� l l
oral history. While it is certainly possible that bows and arrows were used to capture fish along
the shore line of ancient Lake Cahuilla, the number of individuals represented at this site suggests
some other means of mass capture. Bean (1970:68) also briefly mentions fish traps or weirs as
possible methods of capture. It is possible that nets were used to capture the RIV-6059 fish. It is
perhaps more likely, however, that nets were used in combination with stone weirs.
Numerous U or V-shaped rock alignments are found along successively descending ancient Lake
Cahuilla shorelines. The purpose of these alignments has been debated for many years, but most
of the literature interprets or accepts them as fish traps or weirs (Gobalet and Wake n.d.;
Treganza 1945; Wilke 1980). It is assumed that these alignments served as breakwaters to
protect localized areas of shoreline from wave action and provide calmer water that would more
attractive to spawning razorbacks. Others have proposed that the rock alignments served as
supports for slight pole structures covered with branches that would provide calm water and
shelter attractive to fishes, and also be difficult for large fish to escape from if surprised (Gobalet
and Wake n.d.). Either scenario would allow for the capture of mature razorbacks, since it is well
known that they congregate in large numbers in shallow waters over gravel beds (Moffitt and
Moffitt 1996:102; similar to proposed ancient Lake Cahuilla shore environments where wave
action would keep sediment from building on sand and gravel beds, e.g. Gobalet 1992:76;
Gobalet and Wake n.d.). Such constructions are designed to catch larger mature fishes and would
be ideal for procuring fish of the size indicated by the CA-RIV-6059 sample.
The use of large mesh nets alone or in combination with weirs or traps also explains the absence
of bones from small fishes in the RIV-6059 faunal assemblage. No specimens representing
fingerling sized fish are present in the available RIV-6059 fish remains. Bones from small fishes
have been recovered from Salton Basin archaeological sites, and were clearly consumed by people
since some have been extracted from human coprolites (Farrell 1988; Follet 1988; Sutton and
Wilke 1988; Wilke 1978). Smaller, immature fishes and fingerlings could easily hide or swim
between parts of the stone barriers and escape capture. Fingerlings could also easily escape large
mesh nets designed to capture mature fish. The fact that no small fishes are represented in the
well-preserved RW-6059 assemblage, along with the relatively large average skeletal lengths
determined above, strongly supports the hypothesized use of some size -graded mass capture
technique such as netting and/or the use of traps or weirs.
Four fish bones (4.4%) are burned (Table 12). The presence of burned fish bones suggests that
whole fish may have been roasted over open fires or tossed into hearths subsequent to
consumption. No cut marks were observed on any of the fish bones.
61 � /�
Table 12. Distribution of modified elements at CA-RIV-6059 (B=burned, G=ground)
Locus
______________..___-_-__----_________--_--_________________________________-______________.____-____
Trench
Unit
Level
Taxon
Element
Ct
Weight
B
G Comments
A
4
000-010
Mammalia, am
limb
1
.02
8
A
66
000-000
Lepus californicus
scapula
1
.27
8
A
_________________________________________________________________________________________.____---__
66
000-000
Mammalia, am
femur
1
.04
B
Unit
a--
Total
- -----
2
.31
I.00aa Total----��3
-
a .33
¢=__--__
B
7
000-010
Mammalia, am -
indeterminate
7
56
BL
B
7
010-020
Leporidae
tooth
2
.08
B
B
7
010-020
Mammalia, am
indeterminate
10
.15
B
B
7
010-020
Mammalia, am
metapodial
1
.02
B
B
7
010-020
Mammalia, am
scapula
1
.05
B
B
7
010-020
Sylvilagus sp
mandible
1
.25
B
B
7
020-030
Mammalia, am
indeterminate
2
.09
B
B
7
020-030
Sylvilagus sp
metapodial
1
.09
B
B
7
030-040
Sylvilagus auduboni
femur
2
.49
B
B
7
040-050
Sylvilagus sp
mandible
1
.02
e
B
7
040-050
Xyrauchen texanus
vert,lowerpreca
1
.03
B
B
7
050-060
Cypriniformes
cranial
1
.06
B
B
7
050-060
Mammalia, sm
indeterminate
1
.01
B
B
7
050-060
Xyrauchen texanus
vert,caudal
2
.09
B
B
_________________________________________________________________________________________.____-____
7
070-060
Mammalia
indeterminate
1
.01
B
Unit
----_------------------------
Total
34
2.00
B
9
040-050
-P ---Y ___ ________�--�z-�--------
Di odour s merriami
cranial
----------------__-____-_
1
.01
B
B
9
050-060
Mammalia, am
humerus
1
.01
B
B
9
060-070
Mammalia
indeterminate
1
.02
B
B
9
070-080
Mammalia, am
innominate
1
.07
B
_________________________________________________________________________________________.____-____
Unit
Total
4
.11
B
11
040-050
Mammalia, and
cranial
1
.12
B
B
N100.0/W7.00
-----_-----------------�a-����-----_-----__-----------
Gopherus agassizii
hyoplastron
1
11.84
B
G edge -ground,
platter
w/burned crust
B N125.0/W 37.5
Canis latrans
---------------
cranial
1
.07 B
----------------------------------------��
B N125.0/W125
Mammalia, am
indeterminate
1
_._______-
.09 B
B N125.0/W125
_______________.________________-___________________________________-____--______-________._____-___
Sylvilagus sp
tibia
1
.20 S
Trench Total
2
.29
Loeue Total 43 14.43
SITE TOTAL: 46 14.76
62 c;�_ 1;
`l1
Amphibians
One amphibian (Bufo punctatus) is identified from CA-RIV-6059 (Table 8). The red spotted toad
is the only anuran currently known from the northern Salton Basin (Stebbins 1985). It is possible,
in light of the presence of Colorado River fish species, that the toad element identified here could
represent similar Colorado River Bufo species (B. alvarius, B. cognatus, or B. woodhousei).
Both B. cognatus and B. woodhousei are shown by Stebbins (1985:) as entering the Imperial
Valley, or southern Salton basin. While generally sparse, remains of amphibians have been
reported from other archaeological sites in the northern Coachella Valley area (Hudson 1993;
Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992).
Reptiles
A variety of reptile taxa are present in the La Quinta area, and many of them are represented in
the RIV-6059 vertebrate archaeofauna (Table 8, Figures 23 and 24). Nineteen lizard specimens,
thirteen snake vertebrae, and four gopher tortoise (Gopherus agassizi) bones are identified from
RIV-6059.
Four genera and four species of lizards are identified in the RIV-6059 archaeoherpetofauna; the
desert iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsahs, N=14), the zebra -tailed lizard (Callisaurus draconoides,
N=2), the desert spiny lizard (Sceloporus magister, N=1), and the fringe -toed lizard (Uma cf.
inornata, N=1). All of these lizards, with the exception of Sceloporus magister - a rock dweller,
are strongly associated with open sandy desert, washes, and dunes. Desert iguanas are clearly the
most common in this assemblage. Dipsosaurus is common in the La Quinta area. They consume
plants and are strongly associated with creosote bushes (Stebbins 1985). Lizards do appear in
other local area archaeological sites and are currently common around La Quinta. Dipsosaurus
bones have been identified at other local and regional archaeological sites (Hudson and Sanchez
1996).
The majority of the snake vertebrae identified at RIV-6059 are assigned to the Genus Masticophis
(racers) (N=9, 0.22 g). Two specimens are identified to the Colubridae (Non -venomous snakes,
N=2, 0.13 g). One rattlesnake (Genus Crotalus) vertebra is identified (0.05 g). All of the snake
genera identified here are still found in the La Quinta area (Stebbins 1985). The individual snake
vertebrae are not burned or modified in any detectable way, and therefore could be intrusive.
Snake remains, including burned specimens, have been reported from a number of sites in the
northern Coachella Valley, so the inclusion of serpents in the diet of the site's occupants cannot be
discounted (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992),
63 ;, ap� D
. )1)L2-14�'
Figure 23. Distribution of reptile bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6059.
aaa..a6. nlr.)
aoub a (4y.)
a.�.a.ew*tlrf
C� (SKI
VA.W
Figure 24. Distribution of reptile bone by weight (gin) at CA-RIV-6059.
Taxon
Gopherus agassizii
Dipsosaurus dorsalis
Callisaurus draconoides
Uma inornata
Sceloporus magister
Iguanidae
Masticophis sp
Colubridae
Crotalus sp
Serpentes
TOTAL
64
Count Weight(g)
10
17.88
14
.24
2
.04
1
.01
1
.03
1
.01
9
.22
2
.13
1
.05
.01
42 18.62
The four desert tortoise identified in the RIV-6059 reptile assemblage are interesting for a variety
of reasons. No turtles, not even the hearty desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizi), are presently
found in the La Quinta area (Stebbins 1985). It is well known that desert tortoises were
consumed by desert peoples. However, desert tortoise remains have been positively identified
from one other site in the northern Salton Basin area (Schneider and Everson 1989). Three of the
tortoise specimens are carapace fragments, one of which is unmistakable and identified as the
distal end of vertebral plate #6, from the left side. The fourth tortoise specimen is unmistakable as
well, the posterior portion of the left hypoplastron. The hypoplastron specimen is burned to a
black color, and has carbonized residue adhering to it. The lateral edge of the specimen is ground
and smoothed, and bears multiple fine striations when viewed under a dissecting microscope.
This specimen appears to be artifactual, a tortoise plastron platter perhaps, and may have been
transported to the site from somewhere actually within the range of Gopherus agassizi.
Consumption of turtles at other local sites is suggested by the presence of their remains in general
and especially burned plastron fragments (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996;
Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992; Wake 1996). No aquatic turtle species such as the western
pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata), or any of the Colorado River turtles (Kinosternon sonoriense
and Trionyx spiniferus) are identified in the RIV-6059 faunal assemblage. The lack of aquatic
turtle elements at this site is quite interesting, especially in the light of the large number of fish
remains that suggest the presence of suitable, calm, freshwater habitat, which are ideal conditions
for pond turtles.
Birds
Eighteen bird bone specimens are identified from CA-RIV-6059 (Table 8). Seven of these
represent common teal (Arras crecca, 1.01 g). Two other bones are identified as duck (Genus
Anas, 0.33 g). The nine remaining bird bones are identified only to relative size classes. Ducks
and teal are strongly associated with lacustrine or estuarine environments, and their presence, and
association with fish remains, strongly suggests exploitation of such habitats. Remains of greater
varieties of bird species, some of which are lacustrine, have been reported from other
archaeological sites in the northern Salton Basin area (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996;
Wake 1997; Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992).
Mammals
Mammals (N=488, 37.17 g) represent the majority of the vertebrate faunal assemblage from CA-
RIV-6059 (Tables 17 and 18, Figures 25 and 26). A total of eight mammal genera and nine
species are identified. Rodents are the most diverse mammal order with five genera and six
species represented. Lagomorphs (rabbits) are each represented by two genera and species
(Lepus californicus - the black -tailed jackrabbit, and Sylvitagus auduboni - Audubon's
cottontail). Carnivores are represented by 1 Genus and Species (Canis latrans - coyote).
65
Figure 25. Distribution of mammal bone by count (NISP) at CA-RIV-6059.
W (W4
A.b"b tl l
W
. ("Y..)
M W ON
Figure 26. Distribution of mammal bone by weight (gm) at CA-RIV-6059.
fain(+.)
Sws>r1Y pY.l
Crtr1Y (fY.1
Taxon Count Weight(g)
Leporidae
100
19.87
Sciuridae
55
2.62
Geomyidae
7
.58
Heteromyidae
9
.11
Cricetidae
12
1.88
Rodentia
51
.99
Canidae
1
.07
Artiodactyla
1
.51
Mammalia
257
10.54
TOTAL:
________________
488
37.17
••
Mammal remains classifiable only to relative size classes (n=258, 11.05 g) are the most numerous,
with small mammals dominating. Unidentified large manurial remains constitute the smallest of
these less identifiable groups (N=1, 0.25 g) in the mammal assemblage. Only one specimen is
identified as representing the Artiodactyla (even -toed ungulates such as deer and sheep).
The most numerous identified mammal taxa in order of relative abundance are cottontail rabbits
(Genus Sylvilagus, N=80, MN1=2, 18.11 g), antelope ground squirrels (Genus
Ammospermophilus, N=54, 2.61 g), woodrats (Genus Neotoma, N=12, MNI, 1.88 g) and pocket
gophers (Genus Thomomys, N=7, MNI=1, 0.58 g). Heteromyid rodents, kangaroo rats (Genus
Dipodomys - 3 Species, N=3, MNI=3, 0.07 g), and pocket mice (Genus Peromyscus, N=1, 0.01
g) all indicate desert environments. All of these taxa could have been consumed by the site
occupants, although natural occurrence should not be ruled out.
Rabbit remains, especially cottontails are common constituents of archaeofaunas in the local area
and many other California desert mammal archaeofaunas (Christenson 1990, Hudson 1993;
Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Sutton 1991, 1993; Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992). The Cahuilla
are known to have exploited rabbits (Bean 1978). The low number of jackrabbit (Lepus
californicus) specimens (N=3, 0.66 g) is somewhat surprising for a desert locale such as RIV-
6059, since they are common in the local area and often well represented in other neighboring
archaeological assemblages (Christenson 1990; Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Sutton
1991, 1993; Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992). Six cottontail (1.05 g), one jackrabbit (0.27 g),
and one kangaroo rat (0.01 g) bones are burned, indicating possible roasting or disposal of
portions of carcasses in fires. Burned bone constitutes 7.3% of the total RIV-6059 bone
assemblage, a 8.41/o of the mammal assemblage (Table 12).
Although common and known as burrowers, the various identifiable rodent specimens (see Table
8) could also represent dietary constituents since 1 specimen (.01 g) is burned. The 63 (1.76 g)
indeterminate small mammal specimens most likely represent rodents. Eighteen of the small
mammal (probably rodent) bones are burned, possibly indicative of their consumption or disposal.
The burning could represent roasting or disposal, although natural wildfires are a possibility.
Bean (1978:578) mentions the consumption of "rabbits and other small game ...", probably
rodents. Rodent remains are well represented in faunal assemblages from the northern Coachella
Valley (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992).
Ground Stone
The ground stone collection from CA-RIV-6059 comprises fragments representing three metates.
The first metate is represented by five fragments of partially burned sandstone with obvious
grinding surfaces. The second metate is evidenced by two heavily burned, granitic fragments.
The grinding surface of the second metate has several cracks, presumably resulting from being
fired. The third metate is represented by a bifacially wom, lightly burned, granitic fragment.
67
Bead
One Olivella sp. spire ground bead was recovered from Trench N87.51W75 at Locus B (Figure
27). This has a length of 13.5 mm, an overall diameter of 6.9 mm, and a hole diameter of 2.5 mm.
This specimen was found in direct association with ceramics and clearly is from a late precontact
context. Apparently this type of bead is fairly common on late sites in the Coachella Valley
(Laylander 1997:85). King (1981) has placed spire lopped and spire ground beads in earlier
periods on the coast. These beads, however, are known to appear in late contexts on the coast
(see e.g. Elsasser 1978; Brock 1986) as well as in the Coachella Valley. The assignment of earlier
dates to all sprite removed Olivella beads on the coast is probably incorrect and is undoubtedly
incorrect in the Coachella Valley. The evidence from CA-RIV-6059 supports this idea.
Chipped Stone
Locus A contained 42 pressure flakes and 6 pieces of debitage. Thirty-five of the pressure flakes
were of obsidian (Figure 28), three of chert, three of chalcedony, and one of jasper. Debitage
consisted of 1 piece of wonderstone, 4 pieces of chert, and 1 piece of chalcedony.
Two obsidian samples from Locus A were submitted to the Northwest Research Obsidian Studies
Laboratory, Corvallis, Oregon, for energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence trace element
provenience and obsidian hydration rim measurement analyses. The CA-RIV-6059 obsidian was
determined to be from the Obsidian Butte source located in the Salton Buttes of Imperial Valley
(Table 13, Skinner et al. 1998). This source was commonly utilized by southern Californian
groups, but would have been partially or completely inundated during stands of Ancient Lake
Cahuilla.
The obsidian hydration analysis yielded rim measurements of 3.0 and 3.1 microns (Table 14,
Skinner et al. 1998). These rim measurements coincide with others taken from the Obsidian Butte
source (Ericson 1981). Calibrated dates from these additional measurements are AD 1110-1210
and AD 1670 (Ericson 1981). Specimen slides for CA-RIV-6059 are curated at Northwest
Research Obsidian Studies Laboratory under the accession number 98-67 (Skinner et al. 1998).
Locus B contained 2 projectile points and 2 pieces of chalcedony debitage. One of the projectile
points (CS021; Figure 29) is a Desert Side -notched type of milky grey chalcedony. This specimen
is missing its tip and measures 17.2 mm at base, 9.3 nun at midsection, 23.5 mm in length, and is
4.2 mm thick. This specimen came from Trench N125/W75. The second projectile point is a
complete Cottonwood Triangular point (CS024; Figure 30) of dark purple jasper. This came
from Unit 7, 10-20 cm. The specimen measures 10.5 mm at base, 2.3 mm at tip, 11.8 mm in
length, and is 2.4 mm thick. Cottonwood Triangular points are believed to have been introduced
into the Coachella Valley during the Saratoga Springs Period (AD 500-1200). They were used
into the Late Pre -Contact Period (AD 1200-contact) and the Proto-Historic Period. Desert Side -
notched points were also used during these latter periods. These point types have been found in
association with each other on numerous sites (Heizer and Hester 1978:11).
68
aa�
Figure 27. Olivella biplicata spire -
ground bead recovered from. CA-
RIV-6059, Locus B (Trench
N87.5/W75).
Figure 28. Obsidian pressure flakes from CA-RIV-6059, Locus A.
22WOO
v
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V
ti
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u
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U
g
6
V
O
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vl
Q
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b
^
a
m
oo
00
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or
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^
N
♦+ Vl
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oom
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r
m
C0
F
Is
OmI
m
U
u
m
E
az
e
a
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43
0
M
M
rn
•
0.l
u
L
W
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w
6
CN
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F
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u
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II
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p,
rn
m
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s
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II
in
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70
Figure 30. Cotton-
wood triangular
point from CA-RIV-
6059, Locus B
(Trench 7, 10-20
cm).
Figure 29. Desert side -notched point from
CA-RIV-6059, Locus B (Trench
N125/W75).
71
Thermally Affected Rock
The thermally affected rock is mostly in small friable pieces, generally composed of granite with
some shist. Locus A had 127.7 grams and Locus B had 4713.8 grams of the thermally affected
rock, yielding a total of 4841.5 grams. Unit 9 produced the majority of burned rock (4585.2
grams).
The trenches on the eastern portion of Locus B also produced large quantities of thermally
affected rock. Some specimens were examined by geologist Harry M. Quinn. He reports that
they are highly burned rocks with the specimens consisting primarily of quartz muscovite schist
and quartz diorite, with arkosic sandstone and porphyroblastic feldspar also present (Quinn 1998).
Trench N1251W50 produced the greatest volume. All of the burned rock is associated with
charcoal deposits.
Explanations that could be put forward to account for this evidence of burning include food
processing activity, cremation ritual, intentional burning of a deceased persons house/property, or
accidental burning.
Ceramics
CA-RIV-6059 produced a total of 2032.8 gm of Cahuilla ceramics comprising 1458 brownware
and 59 buffware sherds. Of this, brownwares comprise 95.9 percent of the ceramics assemblage
by count (1399 sherds), with the buffwares comprising 4.1 percent by count (59 sherds). The
brownwares constitute 91.1 percent of the pottery assemblage by weight (1852.6 gm), with
buffwares comprising 8.9 percent by weight (180.2 gm). A breakdown of the ceramics
distribution by provenience is provided in Table 15.
Most of the pottery came from the surface collection of the deflated soil area at Locus A. These
sherds are generally small and undiagnostic. Because the soil at Locus A has deflated and the
sherds rested on the ground surface, the larger, diagnostic pieces were probably collected by relic
hunters and the remaining sherds were broken by off -road use of the deflated alkali pan. This is
evidenced by the average size of the sherds from Locus A (1.96 gm) contrasted with the average
size sherds from Locus B (5.24 gm).
To further support the idea of better preservation at Locus B, 5 out of 6 sherds representing
identifiable vessel forms came from that locus. Of these, all are wide -mouthed forms probably
representing cooking vessels. The absence of narrow -necked forms associated with water storage
might further support shoreline occupation at the site, with no need for water storage.
VPJ
J U ,?2�
Table 15. Distribution of ceramics by weight (gm) and provenience.
Provenience
Brownwares
Baffwares
Total
Locus A
Unit 1, 0-10 cm
2.9
2.9
Unit 3, 0-10 cm
8.7
2.4
11.1
Unit 4, 0-10 cm
0.9
0.9
Surface Collection
1304.4
105.5
1409.9
Locus B
Unit 3, 0-10 cm
2.6
2.6
Unit 7, 0-10 cm
17.2
5.2
22.4
Unit 7, 10-20 cm
12.8
14.8
27.6
Unit 7, 60-70 cm
4.6
4.6
Unit 9, 20-30 cm
0.8
0.8
Unit 9, 50-60 cm
12.8
12.8
Unit 9, 70-80 cm
26.9
26.9
Unit 9, 90-100 cm
14.3
14.3
Unit 10, 0-10 cm
3.3
3.3
Unit 10, 10-20 cm
1.7
1.7
Trench N 100/W 100
11.0
11.0
Trench N100/W75
27.8
1.9
29.7
TrenchN125/W125
46.7
14.6
61.3
Trench N] 251W37.5
16.7
16.7
TrenchN125/W50
47.2
47.2
Trench N125/W75
75.7
75.7
Trench NI37.5/W125
26.8
16A
43.2
TrenchNl50/WI00
32.5
32.5
Trench N170/W50
0.2
0.2
Trench N170/W75
31.2
0.4
31.6
Trench N87.5/W75
3.1
1.6
4.7
Surface Collection
117.4
14.8
132.2
Totals
1852.6
180.2
2032.8
It is not surprising that brownware sherds dominate the collection. This pottery is made from
residual clays found in the nearby mountains and foothills. Buffware, on the other hand is made
from sedimentary clays from pond and lake bed accumulations. If Lake Cahuilla was at one or
more high stands during the occupation of the site, sedimentary clays probably would have been
difficult to locate. Consequently, one would expect the site to contain a majority of brownwares.
The site seems to support this hypothesis with the earlier use area identified on the site (Unit 9
vicinity) having no buffwares and the most modem area, the upper levels of Unit 7, having
buffware present.
73
The brownware sherds can be divided into 12 sub -categories based on body characteristics and
temper. The buffware sherds can be divided into 3 sub -categories. An attempt is being made to
correlate these with previously identified ware categories for the region.
The only decoration exhibited in the entire ceramics assemblage for the site is a red slip on a small
piece of buffware from the surface of Locus A (CE 108).
Burned Clay
Burned clay fragments are frequently found on precontact sites in this region. They are likewise
abundant on CA-RIV-6059. Locus A contained 1906.4 grams (75% of clay on the site) of clay
and Locus B contained 634.7 grams. Two gross types of clay have been identified; tabular and
globular. The significance of these types is as yet unclear, but possible uses range from lining
storage containers, to flooring, to daub for siding of structures, to use in baking. These uses are
considered here by James H. Toenjes.
Consideration of Clay Uses (James H. Toenjes)
The presence of burned and unburned clay in aeolian dune contexts is an issue of debate. While
there has been little effort to explain its presence, it is often dismissed as a natural occurrence.
When clay is accepted in archaeological sites as cultural, it is minimally analyzed and during
excavation is often noted for frequency and discarded.
Clay as a resource was depended upon by the Cahuilla for manufacturing ceramic storage
containers and service ware, as daub for domestic and ceremonial house structures, daub for the
sealing of containers, baking, and in the formation of figurines, pipes, discoids, and very likely
floor surfaces in sandy environments.
Bean, in Mukat's People, describes the use of clay in cooking
Women prepared these animals [rodents, e.g. wood rats] by boiling or roasting;
sometimes they were skinned, sometimes cooked whole. Occasionally they were
covered with wet clay (forming a casing around the animal carcass) and baked
[Bean 1972:60].
This cooking method was also observed of the Yumans in the baking of fish (Trippel 1889).
As construction material for dwellings and other structures, however, clay has not been
adequately addressed. Ethnographically, there is evidence for such a use of clay. David Prescott
Barrows observed in his discussion of Cahuilla house, or jacal, construction:
In the Cabeson villages the houses are built higher at the sides with roofs sloping
much more gently from the ridgepole. A favorite material here is a tall thrifty
plant, hang -al (the Artemisia ludoviciana, Nutt.), which is piled upon the roof and
74
a� i
wattled in closely to form the walls. Dirt is then piled on the roof and mud daubed
thickly on the sides. Some of these latter contain several rooms built on to one
another and are high, roomy, and really comfortable. On the desert the posts,
rafters, etc. are, of course, cut from the hard imperishable mesquite (Prosopis
glandulosa) [Barrows 1900:38].
In Mukat's People, Bean describes the Cahuilla desert house as having:
... roofs ... supported by stout, upright, forked posts well set in the earth, and the
walls and steeply -pitched or dome -shaped roofs thatched with whatever material
was available —palm fronds, arrowweed, willow withes, tules, or other plant shrub
material. Some were wattled, plastered with adobe mud, or banked with sand
[Bean 1972:72].
The floors of the desert kish and other structures may also have been surfaced with clay.
Collectors local to the Indio area have reported finding artifacts in association with buried clay
"floors." Borrows (1900:68) notes that the processing of mu-tal (a variety of opuntia) entailed
the pounding of cactus heads on a hard, smooth, dirt floor.
Clay was also used as a daub to hermetically seal food containers:
Of receptacles for storing food, the most striking is the basket granary... In the Cabeson these
granaries are made almost exclusively out of the hang -al, the species of wormwood so abundant
there (Artemisia ludoviciana, Nutt.), and having been filled with mesquite beans they are covered
over and sealed with an armful of the shoots and a daub of mud (Barrows 1900:52). The sealing
of the granaries with mud is also reported by Bean (1972:73).
Various mechanisms may have resulted in the burning of clay or daub. Strong (1929:84) reports
that funerary ritual entailed the burning of the house of the deceased. Presumably the daub would
be fired by this action. Also, the practice of burning mesquite groves in which stores of clay or
previously -utilized granary areas were present would have produced burned clay.
Because of its variety of uses, clay was a premium resource material and would have been
required in substantial quantity. Sources for clay would include stratigraphic deposits in
mountainous areas, lacustrine bed deposits associated with prehistoric Lake Cahuilla, and surface
deposits resulting from seasonal rains and alluvial action. These various clay sources were likely
exploited for specific purposes.
Hypothetically, at any time during the life of a community or household there would have been a
stockpile of raw, unmodified clay ready for use. The presence of unarticulated clay massess in
windblown dunes and unassociated with the natural process of aquaeous deposition must, as with
the occurrence of lithic cobbles, be considered a cultural phenomenon. The clay originally
transported to a site of habitation or use would be stored in an unaltered state ready for crushing
and soaking. Thus burned or unburned clay fragments in an unmanipulated form may, be found in
association with dune habitation or or specialized activity sites.
75
Other Materials
Twenty freshwater shell fragments from Locus B and two from Locus A, were identified as
freshwater mussel (Anodonta). Three of these fragments were burnt (from Unit 7, 10-20 cm).
Four whole unidentified univalves, one of which was burnt, and six burnt univalve fragments
came from Locus B. One shell fragment from Locus B was unidentifiable.
Two colorless glass fragments came from Locus B. One specimen was melted and had a yellow
and black painted -on label.
Locus A produced one .22 caliber, side -strike bullet shell. One small, partially rusted metal
fragment was recovered from Locus B.
CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2)
Radiocarbon Dating
One radiocarbon age determination has been provided by Beta Analytic from charcoal in Feature
1 at this site (Beta-112309, 350 +/-30 BP). The calibrated results (2 sigma, 95% probability) are
AD 1460 to 1645. This date would correspond with a final stand of Lake Cahuilla.
Floral Material
Pollen and macrobotanical analyses were conducted on samples taken from Feature 1. The pollen
sample contained mostly desert indicators with a small amount of Gramineae and Typha-
Sparganium (Davis 1997). The macrobotanical analysis reported 5.43 gams of unidentifiable
wood parts (Martin and Popper 1997).
Faunal Material
A total of 127 bone specimens (6.70 g) recovered from RIV-6060 have been identified and
analyzed. Sixteen various taxonomic categories are represented (Table 16). Mine vertebrate
genera, and eight species are identified. The remaining taxonomic categories consist of bone
fragments that are identifiable only to the Family or Order level, or a relative size class category.
The RIV-6060 vertebrate faunal assemblage is dominated numerically by fish bone, predominantly
bonytail (Gila elegans- N=72) and razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texamrs- N=1), although
mammal remains (N=25, 4.85 g) clearly outweigh them (Figures 31 and 32). Reptiles and birds
are represented by only one specimen each and make a negligible contribution to the overall
assemblage. Excavation Unit 3 had by far the highest overall density of bone (Table 17).
76 c�- 3 3
Table 16. Identified vertebrate species from CA-RIV-6060.
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Gila elegans-
Catostomidae
Xyrauchen texanus
Cypriniformes
Osteichthyes
Chub - Bonytail
Sucker - Razorback
Minnow Order
Cypriniformes
Fish - Bony
Total Fish
72
1.30
1
.07
13
.05
---------------
86
1.42
14
.20
100
1.62
Squamata - Serpentes
Colubridae
Pituophis melanoleucus
Snake - Gopher
1
----
.07
-----------
Total Reptile
1
.07
Gruiformes
Rallidae
Fulica americana
Coot - American
1
----
.16
-----------
Total Bird
1
.16
Lagomorpha
Leporidae
Lepus californicus
Jackrabbit - Black -tailed
1
.15
sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
3
----
.41
----------
Lagomorpha
4
.56
Rodentia
Sciuridae
Ammospermophilus leucurus
Ground Squirrel - Antelope
2
.04
Geomyidae
Thomomys bottae
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
1
.04
Cricetidae
Mouse, Rat, Vole - New World
1
----
.01
----------
Rodentia
4
•09
Carnivora
Canidae
Canis latrans
coyote -
1
2.58
Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
6
.26
Mammalia, lg
Mammal - Large
1
.47
Mammalia, and
Mammal - Medium
1
.48
Mammalia, sm
Mammal - Small
8
.41
16
1.62
Total Mammal
----
25
-----------
4.85
TOTAL TAXA:
127
6.70
77
�;!3 -!
-�
Figure 31. Distribution of animal bone by count (WISP) at
CA-RIV-6060.
WIM
UM9004
Figure 32. Distribution of animal bone by weight (g) at
CA-RIV-6060.
wnr�
Class
Count
Weight(g)
----------------------------
Fish
100
1.62
Reptile
1
.07
Bird
1
.16
Mammal
25
4.85
TOTAL:
----------------
127
6.70
78
G
Table 17. Distribution of animal bone at CA-RIV-6060.
Feat. Locus Trench Unit
Level Taxon
Common Name
Ct
Weight
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"--
1
Thomomys bottae
Pocket Gopher - Botta's
1
.04
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.._-
2
Canis latrans
Coyote
1
2.58
.--
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3
000-010 Mammalia, and
Mammal - Medium
1
.418
3
000-010 Mammalia, am
Mammal - Small
1
.07
3
010-010 Sylvilagus sp
Rabbit - Unid
2
.36
3
010-010 Mammalia
Mammal - Unid
5
.23
3
010-010 Mammalia, am
Mammal - Small
4
.25
3
010-020 Pituophis melanoleucus
Snake - Gopher
1
.07
3
010-020 Cricetidae
Mouse, Rat, Vole - New World
1
.01
3
020-030 Gila elegans
Chub - Bonytail
48
.135
3
020-030 Cypriniformes
Minnow Order
8
.02
3
030-040 Gila elegans
Chub - Bonytail
19
.42
3
030-040 Cypriniformes
Minnow Order
2
.O1
3
030-040 Fulica americana
Coot - American
1
.16
3
040-050 Gila elegans
Chub - Bonytail
3
.04
3
040-050 Oateichthyes
Fish - Bony
14
.20
3
050-060 Cypriniformes
Minnow Order
3
.02
3
070-080 Gila elegans
Chub - Bonytail
1
.18
Unit Total
2
2
2
2
Unit Total
Unit Total
--------C-
Leone Sotal
Xn% S4DM:
4 Ammospermophilus leucurus Ground Squirrel - Antelope
4 Mammalia, am Mammal - Small
4 000-010 Ammospermophilus leucurus Ground Squirrel - Antelope
4 010-020 Mammalia, sm Mammal - Small
5 000-010 %yrauchen texanus
5 000-010 Lepus californicus
5 000-010 Sylvilagus sp
5 030-040 Gila elegans
5 030-040 Mammalia
Mammalia, lg
79
Sucker - Razorback
Jackrabbit - Black -tailed
Rabbit - Unid
Chub - Bonytail
Mammal - Unid
Mammal - Large
114 3.17
1 .01
1 .05
1 .03
2 .04
5 .13
1 .07
1 .15
1 .05
1 .01
1 .03
5 31
1 .47
1 .47
-
121 6.70
239
Fish
As stated above with regard to RIV-6059, fish remains have been reported from a number of sites
associated with the northern shoreline of ancient Lake Cahuilla (Follet 1988; Gobalet 1992, 1994;
Moffitt and Moffitt 1996; Wilke 1978). Composition of the RIV-6060 archaeological fish fauna,
while somewhat limited in diversity and number, is representative of the region and comparable to
other known assemblages.
Fish numerically dominate the vertebrate faunal assemblage recovered from RIV-6060. A total of
100 (1.62 g) fish bone specimens are identified, constituting 790/a of the entire collection by count
and 24% by weight (Figures 33 and 34). Few other Salton Basin faunal assemblages have such a
high frequency of fish bone (see Wake 1997). Fish bones are heavily concentrated in Unit 3, with
1 specimen from Unit 5 (Table 17).
Two species of cypriniform fishes (Order Cypriniformes) are represented, the bonytail (Family
Cyprinidae, Gila elegans, N=72, 1.30 g, MNI=2) and the razorback sucker (Family
Catostomidae, Xyrauchen rexamrs, N=1, 0.07 g, N0I=1) (Tables 16 and 17, Figures 33 and 34).
Thirteen (0.05 g) fragments are referred to the Cypriniformes. The remaining fourteen fish bones
are identifiable only as representing bony fish (Osteichthyes). Preservation of the fish bones is
good, with vertebrae well represented along with a few pharyngeal tooth plates. More fragile
head bones, such as found at RIV4754 (Wake 1997) are absent. Biology of ancient Lake
Cahuilla fishes is discussed in the above treatment of the RIV-6059 ichthyofauna. However, in
contrast to the RIV-6059 fish remains, enough bonytail vertebrae were available at RIV-6060 to
allow size and age determinations. Unfortunately, the lone Xyrauchen vertebra is too poorly
preserved to allow for similar analysis.
Age Determination
The two metrical analyses used for age determination for Xyrauchen in the CA-RIV-6059
icthyofauna assemblage were also used for Gila in CA-RIV-6060.
Based on skeletal lengths of 2 Gila elegans comparative specimens, the calculated fish lengths
were in turn used to estimate the age class of the fish in the sample. Average length per age class
has been determined by Vanicek and Kramer (1969).
80 ��
Figure 33. Distribution of fish bone by count (WISP) at
CA-RIV-6060.
rM�.s..(u>./
Zp .. (&M
AIM.(u+.)
Figure 34. Distribution of fish bone by weight (g) at CA-
RIV-6060.
ap�t■s�si<Nr.�
►.■r (W.(
Wxi
Taxon
Count
Weight(g)
--------------------------------------
Cypriniformes
13
.05
Gila elegans
72
1.30
Osteichthyes
14
.20
Xyrauchen texanus
1
.07
TOTAL:
----------------
100
1.62
81
e: ^
C 9vC
Len¢th Determination
Average size (length) of the bonytail from RIV-6060 was determined using the proportional
method described and discussed by Casteel (1976:105-117). First, a representative sample of
eight (8) thoracic vertebrae were selected from three excavation unit level bags (Unit 3, 20-30,
30-40, and 40-50). Thoracic vertebrae were chosen since they are readily identifiable as Gila.
These skeletal elements have laterally projecting, anterio-posterially angled transverse processes
on each side of the centrum that articulate with equivalent projections on the respective
conjoining parapophyses that the ribs attach to. They also lack longitudinal bony laminae in the
dorsal cavity of the centra. Neither Ptychocheilus (squawfish - vertebrae have bony laminae in
dorsal cavity), Xyrauchen (razorback sucker - no projecting transverse processes), or Mugil
(striped mullet - vertebrae are perforate and dissected), the other most commonly encountered
fish species in Salton Basin archaeological sites, have this exact thoracic vertebral morphology.
The Unit 3 samples were chosen because each subsample contained the only thoracic vertebrae
available. Incomplete thoracic vertebral centra were rejected from this analysis. Complete
vertebral centra are necessary in order to accurately measure their respective lengths and account
for all available growth annuli. These vertebrae were then measured (Table 18). All
measurements were taken with digital calipers.
To serve as a comparison, lengths of each of the 21 post-weberian thoracic vertebrae of 2
individual Gila elegans (CAS 25860, CAS 66038) were measured (Table 19). Average thoracic
lengths were then calculated for each specimen (CAS 25860: 2.71 nun, CAS 66038: 4.44 mm).
An overall Unit 3 archaeological sample average was calculated as well (2.94 nun). The average
archaeological sample length was then plugged into an equation to determine the estimated size of
the fish. Since two known comparative Gila elegans specimens were measured, two equations
were solved to serve as a control for one another.
The following basic algebraic equation was used:
z (comp. spec.) SL (Comp. spec.)
x (sample) x
Where z is the average of the respective measured thoracic vertebrae, SL is the measured skeletal
length of the comparative specimen, and x equals estimated average skeletal length of the
archaeological fish. The two following equations were generated and solved, yielding the size
estimates listed below. The actual equations are:
82 3q
lei v 1213S
Table M Gila elegans upper thoracic vertebral lengths (mm) from CA-RIV-6060.
Unit 3, 20-30
Unit 3, 3040
Unit 3, 40-50
Average
2.91
3.44
3.84
2.94
2.66
2.69
2.59
2.70
2.72
Table 19. Gila elegans upper thoracic vertebral annuli from CA-RIV-6060.
Unit 3, 20-30
Unit 3, 3040
Unit 3, 40-50
Average
4
5
5
4
3
4
3
4
4
Table 20. Distribution of modified elements at CA-RIV-6060
Locus Trench Unit
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------'_____
Level
Taxon
Element
Ct
Weight
8 G Comments
3
010-010
Mammalia
indeterminate
2
.18
B
3
010-010
Mammalia, am
cranial
1
.05
B
3
030-040
Fulica americana
sternum
1
.16
B
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SIRS TOTAL:
4
.39
83
ado
Based on CAS 25860
2.71 195
---- _ --- x = 211.55
2.94 x
Based on CAS 66038
4.44 321.25
---- _ ------ x = 212.72
2.94 x
Using equation 1: estimated skeletal length = 211.55 mm
Using equation 2: estimated skeletal length = 212.72 mm
The 1.17 mm disparity in the estimated lengths is most likely the result of a combination of slight
errors in measuring the comparative specimens and deriving results from different sized
individuals at different ontogenetic growth stages (Casteel 1976:107). At any rate, the two
slightly different size estimates refer to the average length of the skeletons (measured from the tip
of the premaxilla to the end of the hypural). The actual (total length) average length of the fishes
would be somewhat longer (up to 50 mm) if the presence of the caudal fin rays is taken into
account. Therefore, the estimated lengths of these fishes place them well within Vanicek and
Kramer's (1969:200) age class IV. This age/length class is when bonytail become
morphologically distinct from roundtail chubs and is just above the size that Holden and Stalnaker
(1970:410) consider mature and of use for their taximetric analysis.
Annuli Counts
As discussed above, counting growth annuli is an excellent way of determining age and season of
death in various vertebrates, especially fish. This method was used on the CA-RIV-6060
ichthyofauna assemblage.
Annuli on the same Gila elegans thoracic vertebrae discussed above were counted and averaged
to provide a mean age for each Unit -level and the entire sample. Thoracic vertebral annuli were
also counted on the two comparative Gila elegans specimens to serve as a control. All annuli
were counted using a binocular stereo zoom dissecting microscope.
Two methodological problems concerning counting annuli on the bonytail vertebrae are apparent.
One has to do with accounting for the relatively rapid growth during the first 4 years of life and
subsequent reduction of size increase per year (Vanicek and Kramer 1969). The reduced growth
rate later in life produces narrower annuli which are more difficult to count. The second problem
has to do with the presence of annuli within annuli. Many of the yearly annuli examined on both
the archaeological and modern Gila vertebrae contained multiple other sub -annuli, some of which
are quite striking and could be confused with actual annuli.
84 0)qL
the archaeological and modem Gila vertebrae contained multiple other sub -annuli, some of which
are quite striking and could be confused with actual annuli.
When I first began counting annuli I attempted to count each obvious ring on each vertebra. This
rapidly became quite fiustrating. After viewing the whole sample to be counted and considering
the comparative specimens, relatively consistent, regular patterns of yearly annuli became
apparent, but were still subtle. I counted one relatively dense ring and the abutting of a relatively
diffuse ring as a complete annulus. Annulus counts and averages for the sampled vertebrae are
detailed in Table 19.
The annulus counts for the 2 comparative specimens are 6 (CAS 66038) and 4 (CAS 25860)
respectively. The average annulus count for the 8 sampled vertebrae is 4, with a range of 3 to 5.
The overall average age of 4 suggested by annulus counts is roughly equivalent to the ages
suggested by the length -based analysis discussed above. Four year old bonytail average 258 mm
in length according to Vanicek and Kramer (1969:200), which is roughly equivalent to the 212
mm suggested skeletal length plus 5 cm for lips and fin rays.
Procurement and Processine
Fish were clearly an important part of the diet at RIV-6060. However, like the fish represented at
RIV-6059 their acquisition by the site's occupants is somewhat problematic. As discussed earlier
with the RIV-6059 fish assemblage, it is possible that nets were used to capture the RIV-6060
fish. It is perhaps more likely, however, that nets were used in combination with stone weirs in
the same fashion as described for RIV-6059 above.
The use of large mesh nets alone or in combination with weirs or traps also explains the absence
of bones from small fishes in the RIV-6060 faunal assemblage. No specimens representing
fingerling sized fish are present in the available RIV-6060 fish remains. Bones from small fishes
have been recovered from Salton Basin archaeological sites, and were clearly consumed by people
since some have been extracted from human coprolites (Farrell 1988; Follet 1988; Sutton and
Wilke 1988; Wilke 1978). Smaller, immature fishes and fingerlings could easily hide or swim
between parts of the stone barriers and escape capture. Fingerlings could also easily escape large
mesh nets designed to capture mature fish. The fact that no small fishes are represented in the
well-preserved RIV-6060 assemblage, along with the relatively large average skeletal lengths
determined above, strongly supports the hypothesized use of some size -graded mass capture
technique such as netting and/or the use of traps or weirs.
Amphihians
No amphibian skeletal remains are identified from RIV-6060. However, remains of amphibians
are present at RIV-6059, and have been reported from other archaeological sites in the northern
Coachella Valley area (Hudson 1993; Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992).
85 � Ua
Reptiles
While a variety of reptile taxa are present in the La Quinta area, only one snake is represented in
the RIV-6060 vertebrate archaeofauna (Tables 16 and 17), a gopher snake (Pituophis
mehmoleucus, N=1, 0.07 g). Gopher snakes are still found in the La Quinta area (Stebbins
1985). The individual snake vertebra is not burned or modified in any detectable way, and
therefore could be intrusive. Snake remains, including burned specimens, have been reported
from a number of sites in the northern Coachella Valley, so the inclusion of serpents in the diet of
the site's occupants cannot be discounted (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996;
Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992). Surprisingly, no turtle or lizard bones are identified at RIV-
6060. Both appear at RIV-6059 and in other local area archaeological sites and are lizards are
currently common around La Quinta (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Zooarchaeology
Laboratory 1992; Wake 1996, 1997).
Birds
One burned bird skeletal element is identified from RIV-6060, representing a coot (Fulica
americans, Tables 16 and 17). Coots are strongly associated with lacustrine or estuarine
environments. Aquatic birds (ducks) appear at RIV-6059 as well. Remains of greater varieties of
aquatic and other bird species have been reported from other archaeological sites in the northern
Coachella Valley area (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Zooarchaeology Laboratory
1992).
Mammals
Mammals, (N=25, 4.85 g) are present in the RIV-6060 vertebrate faunal assemblage (Tables 16
and 17, Figures 35 and 36). A total of five mammal genera and four species are identified.
Rodents and rabbits are both represented by two genera and species. Carnivores are represented
by one Genus and Species (Canis latrans - coyote, N=1, 2.58 9). Mammal remains classifiable
only to relative size classes (N=16, 1.62 g) represent the most numerous categories.
The most numerous identified mammal taxa in order of relative abundance are cottontail rabbits
(Genus Sylvilagus, N=3, MNI=1, 0.41 g), and antelope ground squirrels (Genus
Ammospermophilus, n=2, 0.04 g). Gophers (Genus Thomomys, 0.04 g) and jackrabbits (Lepus
californicus, 0.15 g) are each represented by 1 specimen.
Rabbit remains, especially cottontails, are common constituents of archaeofaunas in the local area
and many other California desert mammal archaeofaunas (Christenson 1990; Hudson 1993;
Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Sutton 1991, 1993; Zooarchaeology Laboratory 1992). It is
surprising that only one jackrabbit bone is identified, since they are common in the local area and
often well represented in other neighboring archaeological assemblages (Christenson 1990;
Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Sutton 1991, 1993; Zooarchaeology Laboratory
1992).
86 r�� 43
c
-44-2—
Figure 35. Distribution of mammal bone by count (rIISP)
at CA-RIV-6060.
sus a.o.. us.,
Ia2"
Ytwlr(sY.)
Figure 36. Distribution of mammal bone by weight (g) at
CA-RIV-6060.
ceYrrsa..Isa>.t
r..omw.a,awiv:t
r.aw..(vt
.Nt •W4
erur.nR(
Taxon Count Weight(g)
Lepus californicus
1
.15
Sylvilagus sp
3
.41
As ospermophilus leucurus
2
.04
Thomomys bottae
1
.04
Cricetidae
1
.01
Canis latrans
1
2.58
Ma=alia
16
1.62
----------------
TOTAL:
25
4.85
87 �� Y l
Although common and known as burrowers, the rodent specimens (see Table 6) could also
represent dietary constituents. The eight (0.41 g) indeterminate small mammal specimens most
likely represent rodents. Bean (1978:578) mentions the consumption of "rabbits and other small
game ...", probably rodents. Rodent remains are well represented in faunal assemblages from the
northern Coachella Valley (Hudson 1993; Hudson and Sanchez 1996; Zooarchaeology
Laboratory 1992).
A human cremation interment was recovered from this site during monitoring for the Avenue 48
Extension Project (Brock 1998). A portion of the top layer of the cremation, measuring
approximately 15 centimeters, was displaced by heavy equipment. The majority of the cremation
remained intacted and was excavated as Feature 1. The cremation pit was 20 centimeters deep
and contained dense charcoal with larger bone fragments in the middle layer and dense charcoal in
ashy sand with small bone fragments in the bottom layer of the pit. The sides of the pit were
slightly fire -reddened. The recovered faunal material was immediately turned over to the
Riverside County Coroner's Office. Analysis of the remains concluded that cranial fragments and
a cervical vertebra fragment consistent with Homo were present (Gray 1998). All remains
recovered from excavation have been reburied along with remains from the Eagle Hardware
project.
Ground Stone
One small ground stone fragment of brown -grey basalt was recovered from Locus A.
Thermally Affected Rock
957.7 grams of thermally affected granitic rock was recovered from CA-RIV-6060. Thirteen
pieces (710.4 g) were recovered from the surface collection, seven (73.2 g) came from Unit 3,
20-30 cm level, and ten pieces (174.1 g) came from Feature 1. The rocks from Feature 1 were
noticeably more burnt than the other thermally affected rocks of the assemblage which was
expected due to their association with the human cremation.
Ceramics
A total of 77 pottery sherds were recovered from CA-RIV-6060. Of these, 51 (66.2%) are
bulfwares while 26 (33.8%) are brownwares. Table 21 shows their distribution on the site, where
it is evident that the great majority came from the surface collection. It is difficult to explain why
the buffwares are predominant. It is possible that they represent use of the site after the fish
processing/consumption phase indicated by the remains in Unit 3. As noted above, one would
expect brownwares to dominate on sites associated with high stands of Lake Cahuilla because
sedimentary clay would not have been readily available.
One identifiable vessel form was present. This was a buffware rim sherd indicating a wide
mouthed bowl form (CE003).
88
.JU
Table 21. Distribution of ceramics by weight (gm) and provenience at CA-RNS060.
Provenience
Brownwares
Buffwares
Total
Unit 5
0-10 cm
2.0
2.0
10-20 cm
3.9
3.9
Surface Collection
128.1
168.9
297.0
Total
128.1
174.8
302.9
Burned Clay
A small quantity of burned clay was present on CA-RIV-6060. A total of 586.5 grams was
recovered from the site, most of which came from the surface collection (306.9 g). Units 1, 2, 3,
and 5 produced 35% of the clay, with Unit 3 containing the most (162.3 g). Clay fragments were
of the types discussed above, i.e., tabular and globular.
Other Materials
Two freshwater shell fragments, comparing favorably to freshwater mussel (Anorionta), were
recovered from CA-RIV-6060. Two unidentifiable fragments were also recovered.
CA-RIV-6092 (LAQS)
Table 2 above indicates that 1102.3 gm of cultural material was recovered from CA-RIV-6092.
This is predominately burned clay. There were 245 pieces of this clay recovered, totaling 967.1
gm or 87.7 percent of the collection by weight. The possible uses of clay are discussed above.
Twenty one sherds of pottery were recovered, all except for one of which came from the surface
collection. Two of the sherds are buffware while the other 19 are brownware. One rim sherd
(CE007) appears to represent a plate -type form.
One undiagnostic groundstone fragment was recovered, along with a small fragment of an
unidentifiable medium mammal bone, and two fragments of thermally affected rock from Unit 1.
89 I
/ s
LAQ3-H
This alleged historical refuse deposit was examined by historical archaeologist, Wdham A.
Sawyer, in the course of the AAG work on the site. Analysis of glass artifacts from this deposit
indicates a probable deposition date of post-1950, according to marks identified on site and
present in Toulouse's Bottle Makers and Their Marks (1971). Some semi -vitreous ceramics are
present. These could date to the first half of this century, however, given deposition lag time,
they are consistent with a post-1950 date for the deposit. An inventory of specimens examined at
this deposit is on file with Archaeological Advisory Group.
lRX119-0.1
This small deposit was also examined by historical archaeologist, William A. Sawyer. As with
LAQ3-H, analysis of glass artifacts from this deposit indicates a probable date of post-1950
according to marks identified on site and present in Toulouse's Bottle Makers and Their Marks
(1971). An inventory of specimens examined at this deposit is on file with Archaeological
Advisory Group.
DISCUSSIONANTERPRETATION
GENERAL
Three prehistoric archaeological sites have been identified on the study area: CA-RIV-6059
(LAQI), CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2), and CA-RIV-6092 (LAQ5). Two putative historical
archaeological deposits were previously identified on the project area: LAQ3-H, and LAQ4-H
(see Demcak 1997).
The northeastern part of site CA-RIV-6059, Locus B, was found to contain a large, deep, buried
prehistoric occupation site. This locus occupies 0.76 acre of the study area. Its minimal depth
below the ground surface is approximately 40 centimeters and it goes over 2 meters in depth in
some places. This site relates to the shoreline occupation during more than one of the later stands
of the Ancient Lake Cahuilla and may have continued in use during one or more periods when the
lake was desiccated. There is also evidence that it may have been used after the desiccation of the
lake. This site is capable of addressing many of the research questions presented in the Research
Design above. With the exception of some of the backhoe trenches, research was limited to
excavation around the periphery of the deposit in order to better define its boundaries for
preservation. Consequently, the main portion of the deposit remains uninvestigated.
The southern portion of CA-RIV-6059, termed "Locus A," contained a large quantity of pottery
and burned clay. This material was confined to the ground surface with the soil the area having
been deflated. It was subsequently picked over by relic seekers and disturbed by vehicular traffic.
It subsequently has little research value.
Q-4+
Site CA-RIV-6060 generally comprises a light surface scatter of ceramics, burned clay, and
thermally affected rock. Of note was the presence of a human cremation interment investigated
during monitoring for the Avenue 48 Extension Project (see Brock 1998). Also, the vicinity of
Unit 3 produced a fairly substantial deposit of fish bone associated with the exploitation of Lake
Cahuilla.
CA-RIV-6092 is a light scatter of ceramics and burned clay. It lacks dateable material and has
little research value.
The two putative historical refuse deposits, LAQ3-H and LAQ4-H, have material (e.g. glass) that
indicates they date to the second half of this century and consequently do not qualify as cultural
resources.
CONSIDERATION OF RESEARCH DOMAINS
Chronology
CA-RIV-6059
Three radiocarbon dates were run for CA-RIV-6059, Locus B (see Table 3 above). Unit 9 (30-
40) produced a calibrated date (95% probability) of AD 1305-1430. This could correspond with
a high stand of Lake Cahuilla in the 1300s as proposed by Waters (1983). However, the faunal
assemblage suggests that the Unit 9 vicinity does not represent shoreline exploitation, with
mammals being predominant, and only two fish bones present. To confuse the situation more, the
pollen argues for a wet environment at the time, indicating a high stand of the lake.
Two radiocarbon assays were run for Unit 7 at CA-RIV-6059 (10-20 cm and 60-70 cm). The
deeper sample produced a calibrated date (95% probability) of AD 1645-1950. The shallower
sample had three calibrated date ranges, the earliest being the only one tenable, AD 1650-1825.
If the deposit in this vicinity is related to shoreline habitation it must be from the very final high
stand in the 1600s. While the faunal assemblage is not predominantly fish, razorback sucker and
boneytail are present.
To summarize dating for CA-RIV-6059, Locus B, the site displays evidence for multiple
habitations ranging from at least as early as the 1300s to as late as the 1600s. The unexcavated
main portion of the deposit may have evidence of earlier occupations, possibly even Archaic. The
multiple habitations probably relate to different, evolving subsistence strategies. These strategies
may not necessarily relate to the exploitation of Lake Cahuilla resources.
CA-RIV-6060
One radiocarbon date was derived from charcoal associated with a human cremation interment
(Feature 1) at CA-RIV-6060. The calibrated date (95% probability) is AD 1460 to 1645. If the
cremation deposit and the deposit of fish bone from Unit 3 are contemporary (?) then we are
looking at site use pertaining to the last or second to last stand of ancient Lake Cahuilla.
91
CA-RIV-6092
This site produced no material for absolute dating. It can be assigned to the late precontact
period (post AD 900) on the basis of the presence of ceramics.
Subsistence Practices
The Cahuilla were, and in some cases still are, masters of their environment. They exploited many
plants and animals as part of their daily subsistence. Detailed ethnobiological accounts for the Cahuilla
can be found in Ebeling (1986), Bean and Saubel (1972), Barrows (1900), and Kroeber (1925).
Plant Resource Exploitation
It has been estimated that the Cahuilla exploited on a regular basis over 500 native and introduced
plant species (Bean and Saubel 1972:4). These plants include those that were gathered directly from
the desert and lakeshore, and those that were grown by the Cahuilla in irrigated fields. Specifically
regarding CA-RIV-6059 and CA-RIV-6060, there are indications for use of chaparral, desert, and
marshland plant communities. This discussion will mostly be limited to plants species with remains
found in the sites (Tables 5, 6, and 7; see pollen results for reasons of exclusion of chaparral species in
this discussion).
The pollen analysis recovered mostly chaparral and desert plants. This was expected as these plants
would have grown and still do grow in the vicinity of the project area. A small amount of highland
plants (Quercus and Pinus) were also noted. These trees are wind-borne pollinators and their pollen
can travel for many miles from its source. Indications of these trees in the pollen samples could be a
result of wind transported pollen or from being washed down from the nearby mountains. There also
was some indication of marshland use, as evidenced by the presence of Typha-SPargcmtwn
Typha roots were dried and ground into flour, pollen was made into cakes and mush, and stalks were
used for matting, bedding, and in constructing ceremonial bundles (Ebeling 1986:353).
Though no creosote (I wrea tridentata) was evident in the botanical samples, the plant was of much
importance to the Cahuilla. The creosote bush is a common shrub throughout the American
Southwest and down to central Mexico. Called atukul by the Cahuilla, it has been referred to as the
penicillin of the Indians (Krochmal et al. 1954) because it has been used to treat almost as many
ailments as has penicillin in modem times. Leaves and stems were boiled into a tea and given to the
person suffering from a sickness such as a cold or a chest infection. The tea was also used as a general
tonic for good health, a decongestant and, when giver in a large dosage, it induced vomiting. Various
nuxtures of creosote were used as applications to wounds for the prevention of infections, the drawing
out of poisons, and to hasten recovery. Other mixtures were used as a treatment for dandmffl as a
disinfectant, as a deodorant, and to relieve swollen limbs due to poor blood circulation. Concoctions
were even used on horses suffering from colds, distemper, or numy noses. According to Jaeger
(1941), creosote was used by the Indians of Mexico as a treatment for tuberculosis and gastric
discomfort, and as a mending solution for pots and baskets. Creosote wood ignites easily and bums
92 _
`��Lti
hot and was potentially used as firewood (Strike 1994), although desert ironwood (Olwya tesota) is
known to be a much better fuel source (Bean and Saubel 1972:95).
Dicona canescens, though not specifically identified in the samples, potentially was represented.
Relatively high percentages of unspecified Asteraceae pollen were identified. Because Dicoria is of the
Asteraceae family and due to its association with Creosote Bush Scrub it is possible that the floral
assemblage did contain this species. Other archaeological sites of the Coachella Valley have produced
Dicona seeds along with goosefoot (Chenopadium sp.) and western sea -purslane (Sesuwwn
wrrucosum) seeds (Wilke et al. 1975, and Wilke 1978), thus making the possiblity of Dicoria in the
site seem even more probable. If this is true, then the association of dicom and goosefoot may
account for the relatively high pollen percentages of Asteraceae and Chenopodmceae-Amarandw
pollen (also not determined to generic level). Five Chenopodmeeae Amarandw seeds were identified
in the macrobotanical analysis, further supporting the presence of plants belonging to the
Chenopodiaceae Amarandw group. Dicona seeds can be harvested between December and
February, making this an important seed food in leaner times. Goosefoot (Cahuilla name ki'awet or ke-
ha wut for C. califorrdcum), and probably dicoria, seeds were parched and ground into meal flour for
cakes (Bean and Saubel 1972:52-53 and Barrows 1900:48). Barrows (1900:48) described the hard
carrot -like root of goosefoot as being grated on a rock and used for soap. The leaves of goosefoot
could also be used as soap, but they were not as good as the root. Goosefoot was used medicinally as
a relief for stomach upsets. Sap was used as a gum and to make a strong anti-helmenthic (Bean and
Saubel 1972:53 and Krochmal, et al. 1954:8).
Prosopis gkmdulosa or dy as it was called by the Cahuilla, is alongside the oak (Quercus spp.) in
importance to the tribe (Bean and Saubel 1972). Barrows (1967:55) remarked that "on the desert the
main reliance of the Coahuilla [sic] Indians is the algaroba or mesquite." Kroeber (1925:695), in his
study of the California Indians confirmed this —"the fruit of the tree was the staple food" among the
Camilla. The uses of mesquite range from food to firewood, and from diapers to mortars. The bean
pod of the mesquite was the most important food product of the plain. Pods were picked at three
different times of the year, indicating stages of pod development. Some pods were eaten directly from
the tree and some were dried and ground into a flour, or stored. According to Barrows (1967:56),
"the beans were never husked, but pod and all are pounded up into an imperfect meal in the wooden
mortar. This meal is then placed in earthen dishes and thoroughly soaked. It is then ready to be eaten,
and is called the Coahuillas [sic], p6-chi-ta, or m6n-yi-kish, according as it is, or is not, sifted." This
meal was then formed into cakes and was stored for consumption year round. This same procedure
was used on harvested mesquite blossoms. Mesquite tnmks were shaped into wooden mortars and the
limbs were used in making bows and as house comer posts. "Mesquite was viewed as one of the best
firewoods, it compared favorably with oak and provided a hot, durable fire for cooking, baking
pottery, and wamrth" (Bean and Saubel 1972:113). Mesquite charcoal has been recovered from
Cahuilla cremations (Swope 1988). Mesquite bark was not only used as kindling, but also when
worked properly, it was used as a cloth for diapers and for women's skirts.
Faunal Resource Exploitation
Analysis of the vertebrate faunal assemblages from RIV-6059 and RIV-6060 indicate that the
vertebrate portion of the diet consisted primarily of small mammals, mainly cottontail rabbits and
93
asa
rodents supplemented by fish, reptiles, and a few birds. Some of the fish, rabbit and rodent bones
from both sites are burned, suggesting that they were roasted or disposed of in a fire (Tables 12
and 20). No large wild ungulates (bighorn sheep or deer) were identified, further supporting the
idea of a high degree of dependence on small game and fish.
The presence of fish remains at these sites suggest that they were occupied during a period when
fish were available, probably at or near a high stand of ancient Lake Cahuilla, prior to any
substantial lowering of lake levels and concomitant increases in salinity and alkalinity. The
species composition and number of specimens is similar to that of many other sites in the area
(Follet 1988; Gobalet 1992, 1994; Moffitt and Moffitt 1996; Wilke 1978). Fishing activities at
RIV-6059 emphasized the capture of razorback suckers, while fishing at RIV-6060 emphasized
the capture of bonytail. These occupations may correspond to the spawning cycles of each of
these fish species.
The presence of fish and waterfowl strongly indicate exploitation of lacustrine environments by
the occupants of both RIV-6059 and RIV-6060. The domination of the mammal assemblage by
rabbits and small mammals and the presence of reptile taxa illustrate exploitation of local more
open or desert habitats as well. Based on the vertebrate faunal assemblage recovered from RIV-
4754 it is apparent that the site's occupants pursued a mixed strategy of fishing and hunting
rabbits, and perhaps other small mammals and reptiles. The fish were probably captured with
nets, or more likely, the use of nets in combination with the numerous weirs that lined the ancient
shores of Lake Cahuilla and can still be seen in undisturbed areas.
While fish remains are found throughout the RIV-6060 stratigraphic section, they are only found
in levels below 30 cm (N=1 in 30-40 cm), and concentrated below 40 cm, at RIV-6059, Locus B.
No fish are reported from RIV-6059, Locus A. The upper 30 cm of deposits from Unit 7 and
Unit 9, RIV-6059, Locus B correspond strongly to the species diversity and relative abundances
seen in Locus A. The upper 30 cm of Locus A and Locus B at RIV-6059 may represent a post
desiccation occupation exhibiting a shift in dietary focus to exclusively desert taxa.
Settlement Systems
CA-RIV-6059 and CA-RIV-6060 show clear evidence of settlement associated with former
stands of ancient Lake Cahuilla. At CA-RIV-6059 the radiocarbon dates indicated settlement
associated with probably the three last stands of the lake. This argues for the site being in an
optimal location for resource exploitation (e.g. the edge of an embayment). The relatively
limited amount of fish bone from the site, particularly from the vicinity of Unit 9, could argue for
occupation occurring during periods of desiccation of the lake. Hence, there may have been only
a limited change in settlement pattern in this vicinity in late pre -contact times. The change may
have been more in subsistence strategy rather than settlement location. The continued use of the
site may indicate it was the semi -permanent home of a family unit.
CA-RW-6060 has only limited evidence of settlement. The fish bone deposit in the Unit 3 area
indicates use as a temporary fishing or fish -processing camp. This use was possibly only for one
season or even just a few days. The explanation for the placement of the cremation interment at
94
this site is problematic. It could be that the site or location had some association for the deceased
or it may be that it was just a nice area located away from the settlement.
Exchange Systems
Only site CA-RIV-6059 produced evidence of trade relations. Locus B undoubtedly contains
considerably more exotic materials. In general, however, it would appear that the local
catchment area was sufficiently diverse in resources to discourage extensive reliance on trade to
meet subsistence needs.
Locus A had a deposit of 35 obsidian pressure flakes probably representing one manufacturing
event. The CA-RIV-6059 obsidian was determined to be from the Obsidian Butte source located
in the Salton Buttes of Imperial Valley. This source was commonly utilized by southern
Californian groups, but would have been partially or completely inundated during stands of
ancient Lake Cahuilla.
The Olivella spire ground bead from Locus B indicates trade relations with coastal Native
American groups.
Site Structure and Evolution of Use
CA-RIV-6059 displays considerable evidence of localized activity areas. Because the densest
part of the site is being preserved we can only speculate on the ranges of uses and features that
are present there. Presumably we are dealing with a well-preserved, small, but heavily utilized,
habitation area. This should contain evidence of residential structures, features associated with
subsistence activities, as well as features associated with social system maintenance activities.
These should be stratified on the site and show change through time.
It is also possible that a well was present on this site. The presence of such a feature would have
encouraged the consistent or re -occurring use of the site through time.
What we do see from the limited data recovered is evidence of dense occupation in the central
area of Locus B. At least two phases are represented, with the earlier occupation exceeding two
meters in depth. At the eastern area of Locus B there is heavy evidence of burning. This could
be associated with anything from food processing to possibly even human cremation activity. The
radiocarbon dates indicate the use of the eastern portion of Locus B is comparatively early, falling
in the AD 1305-1430 range. Unit 9 in this vicinity had clear evidence of subsistence activity with
hunting focusing on the exploitation of small mammals.
On the western periphery of the site, Unit 7 exhibited two phases of subsistence use which both
post-date AD 1600. Again, the exploitation of small mammals is evidenced with fishing indicated
to a lesser degree.
95 C
�3�"
MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
SITE EVALUATION
Under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act a cultural resource can be regarded
as potentially significant, and therefore potentially eligible for inclusion in the National Register of
Historic Places (NRHP), if it meets one or more of the following criteria:
A. Association with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad
patterns of history.
B. Association with the lives of persons significant in our past.
C. Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of
construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic
values, or that represent a significant distinguishable entity whose components may
lack individual distinction.
D. Have yielded or may be likely to yield information important in history or
prehistory.
Under Appendix K of CEQA an archaeological resource is significant if it meets one of the
following criteria: (a) it is associated with an event or person of recognized significance in
California or American history, or recognized scientific importance in prehistory; (b) it can
provide information which is both of demonstrable public interest and useful in addressing
scientifically consequential and reasonable archaeological research questions; it has a special or
particular quality such as oldest, best example, largest, or last surviving example of its kind; it is
at least 100 years old and possesses substantial stratigraphic integrity; or (e) it involves important
research questions that historical research has shown can be answered only with archaeological
methods.
Additional criteria of significance is found in eligibility for the California Register of Historical
Resources (CRHP), which is based upon the criteria used for Federal undertakings whereby
resources are evaluated for their eligibility for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places
(see above).
Our research has indicated that CA-RIV-6060 (LAQ2), CA-RW-6092 (LAQ5), LAQ3-H, and
LAQ4-H, along with the southern portion (Locus A) of CA-RIV-6059 (LAQI), are non -unique
or insignificant due to their inability to provide data to increase our knowledge of the prehistory
and history of the area in a substantial and meaningful way.
Locus B of CA-RIV-6059 is significant in that it is the best known and best preserved example of
its type and it contains a full spectrum of materials that are capable of addressing numerous
research questions. It has evidence of numerous phases of use that could provide unique
information on the evolution of late pre -contact subsistence and settlement systems in the region.
96
Material consists of a wide range of ceramics, stone tools, faunal remains, burned clay, and
charcoal, among other things. Features such as hearths and house circles are probably present.
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is recommended that all rough grading and trenching into natural soil be monitored by a
qualified archaeological monitor. The project area is in a region of high sensitivity for buried
archaeological resources. When and if additional resources are encountered during grading work
should halt in the vicinity of the find and an assessment of the significance of the find should be
made and a treatment plan should be developed, as necessary, to mitigate impacts.
It is recommended that the area of Locus B of CA-RIV-6059 shown in Figure 5 be preserved, in
situ, as park space because of the unique research potential of the deposit present there. If
preservation is unfeasible a data recovery program of minimally ten percent of the deposit is
recommended.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Various individuals helped to make this a successful project. Foremost, we would like to thank
the following staff from Catellus Residential Group: John O'Brien, Brian Devlin, and Danielle
Lambert. Jerry Herman, Chirstine di Iorio, and Leslie Mouriquand with the City of La Quinta's
Community Development Deparment also provided valuable assistence. Additional thanks are
due to Harry Quinn (Geological Consultant), Anthony Andreas (Cahuilla Consultant), Paul
Trujillo (Riverside County Coroner's Office), and the staff from GR Underground, Inc. (backhoe
operators).
The field crew deserves thanks for their hard work: William A. "Cony" Sawyer, Steven K. Dies,
and James H. Toenjes. Mr. Toenjes has, as with other projects, provided a wonderful watercolor
painting of part of the project area (Locus B of CA-RCV-6059) that appears on the cover of this
report.
Finally, we are grateful to the specialists who helped with the interpretation of the data: Dr.
Thomas A. Wake (vertebrate fauna), Dr. Owen K. Davis (pollen), Dr. Virginia S. Popper
(macrobotanicals), Dr. Steve L. Martin (macrobotanicals), and the staffs from Northwest
Research Obsidian Studies Laboratory and Beta Analytic Inc.
REFERENCES CITED
Bailey, Harry P.
1966 Weather of Southern California.
University of California Press, Berkeley.
97
California Natural History Guides 17.
Barbour, M.G., and J. Major, editors
1977 Terrestrial Vegetation of California. John Wiley and Sons, New York.
Barrows, David P.
1900 Ethno-boiariy of the Coahudia Indians. University of Chicago Press, Chicago.
Bass, William M.
1987 Human Osteology: A Laboratory and Field Manual. Missouri Archaeological
Society, Columbia, Missouri.
Bean, Lowell John
1970 Ecological Integration Among the Cahuilla Indians of Southern California.
Unpublished Ph.D. Dissertation. University of California, Los Angeles.
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106 ,)LLe 3
APPENDIX 1: PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS
AAG Staff
James Brock (President/Chief Archaeologist)
o BA (Anthropology) UC Santa Barbara
• MA (Archaeology) University of Durham, Durham, England
• Registered Professional Archaeologist (RPA), i.e. fisted on Registry of Professional
Archaeologists, formerly the Society of Professional Archaeologists (SOPA). SOPA
certifications in field research, theoreticallarchival research, and historical archaeology.
• 18 years of experience as a Principal Investigator on cultural resource management projects
throughout southern California
William A. Sawyer (Senior Archaeologist)
• BA (Anthropology) CSU Long Beach
• Graduate work, CSU Long Beach
• 20 years of cultural resource management experience throughout southern and central
California
Brenda D. Smith (Research Associate)
• BS (Anthropology) UC Riverside
• Currently graduate student, Native American Studies, UCLA
• 5 years of cultural resource management experience in southern California
Steven K. Dies (Archaeologist)
• BA (Anthropology) Humboldt State University
• 20 years of cultural resource management experience in California
James H. Toenjes (Archaeologist)
• BA (Historical Archaeology) UC Santa Cruz
• Graduate work, University of Tennessee
• 20 years of cultural resource management experience in California
Specialists
Thomas A. Wake, Ph.D., Director, Zooarchaeology Laboratory, UCLA
Owen K. Davis, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Geosciences, University of Arizona
Virginia S. Popper, Ph.D., Director, Paleoethnobotany Laboratory, UCLA
Steve L. Martin, Ph.D., Staff, Paleoethnobotany Laboratory, UCLA
107
. rJl
APPENDIX 2: RESULTS OF RADIOCARBON DATING
108
;Lle
-26� .
CALIBRATION OF RADIOCARBON AGE TO CALENDAR YEARS
(Variables:estimated CIYC12=25:lab multi I)
Laboratory Number:
Conventional radiocarbon age*:
Calibrated results:
(2 sigma, 95% probability)
• CI3/C12 ratio estimated
Intercept data:
400
•oa
c
`a 200
0
O
a
A
Q
loc
Intercepts of radiocarbon age
with calibration curve:
1 sigma calibrated results:
(68 /o probability)
yen a an no
Beta-116954
190 f 40 BP
cal AD 1650 to 1825 and
cal AD 1835 to 1880 and
cal AD 1915 to 1950
cal AD 1675 and
cal AD 1775 and
cal AD 1800 and
cal AD 1945
cal AD 1665 to 1685 and
cal AD 1740 to 1810 and
cal AD 1930 to 1950
1600 1700 18L0 aauu
cal All
References:
Pretoria C,Ubradon Curve jar Short Lived Samples
Vogel, J. C, Fuls, A.. Visser, E. and Becker, B., 1993, Radiocarbon 35(I), p73-86
A Simplified Approach to Calibrating 04 Data
Talmo, A. S. and Vogel, J C, 1993, Radiocarbon 35(2), p317-322
CaUbradon -1993
Stuiver. M, Long, A., Kra, P S. and Devine. J. M, 1993, Radiocarbon 35(1)
CHARRED MATERIAL
Beta Analytic Radiocarbon Dating Laboratory
4985 S.W. 74th Court, Miami, Florida 33155 m Tel: (305)667-5167 ■ Fax: (305)663-0964 ■ E-mail: beta@racliocarbon.com
109 � �2
CALIBRATION OF RADIOCARBON AGE TO CALENDAR YEARS
(Variables:estimated C13/C12=-25:lab mutt. I)
Laboratory Number:
Conventional radiocarbon age*
Calibrated results:
(2 sigma, 95% probability)
• C131C12 ratio estimated
Intercept data:
Intercepts of radiocarbon age
with calibration curve:
I sigma calibrated results:
(68% probability)
190 ± 50 SP
400
] t \ \ *--*�
rye
Beta- 116955
190 t 50 BP
cal AD 1645 to 1950
cal AD 1675 and
cal AD 1775 and
cal AD 1800 and
cal AD 1945
cal AD 1660 to 1690 and
cal AD 1735 to 1815 and
cal AD 1925 to 1950
gMRREn MATEPIAL
1500 16D0 WUU ... I
cal AO
References:
Pretoria Calibration Cumefor Short lived Samples
Vogel, J. C., Fuls, A., Visser, E. and Becker, B., 1993, Radiocarbon 35(J), p73-86
A Simplified Approach to Calibrating C14 Data
Talma, A. S. and Vogel, J. C, 1993, Radiocarbon 35(2), p317-322
Calibration -1993
Sturver, M, Long, A.. Kra, R. S. and Devine, J. M, 1993, Radiocarbon 35(l)
.. M
Beta Analytic Radiocarbon Dating Laboratory
4985 S.W. 74th Court, Miami, Florida 33155 ■ Tel: (305)667-5167 ■ Fax: (305)663-0964 a E-mail: beta oaradiocarbon.coomr/
110
CALIBRATION OF RADIOCARBON AGE TO CALENDAR YEARS
(Variables:estimated CB/C12=25:lab mult.=1)
Laboratory Number:
Conventional radiocarbon age*
Calibrated results:
(2 sigma, 95% probability)
• C13/C12 ratio estimated
Intercept data:
700
500
Intercept of radiocarbon age
with calibration curve:
1 sigma calibrated results:
(68 /a probability)
570 t 40 BP
Beta-116956
570 t 40 BP
cal AD 1305 to 1430
cal AD 1405
cal AD 1325 to 1340 and
cal AD 1390 to 1420
CHARRED MATERIAL
1280 1300 1320 1340 13EU 1380 1400 142u i1+u 1+60
cal AD
References:
Pretoria Calibration Curve for Short Lived Samples
Vogel, J C., Fuls. A., Visser, E. and Becker, B. 1993, Radiocarbon 35(l), p73-86
A Simplified Approach to Calibrating C14 Data
Talma, A. S. and Vogel, J. C. 1993, Radiocarbon 35(2), p317-322
Calibration -1993
Stuiver, U.., Long, A., Kra, R. S. and Devine, J M, 1993, Radiocarbon 35(l)
Beta Analytic Radiocarbon Dating Laboratory
4985 S.W. 74th Court, Miami, Florida 33155 ■ Tel: (305)667-5167 ■ Fax: (305)663-0964 ■ 1<maiL beta@radiocarbon.com