FA BLM AZ Inventory and Monitoring Geodatabase Development for Agua Fria National Monument and Perry Mesa Archaeological District
A. Project Background Information: Archaeology Southwest has been a partner in the development of the Horseshoe and Copper creek grazing allotment CRMP over the past few years, and as such has been assisting in the gathering and digitizing of archaeological information for the Perry Mesa Archaeological district. During the CRMP process, the concept of a geo database for the entire Perry Mesa Archaeological district was discussed, but funding for such an endeavor was not available. Subsequently when the FY2014 NLCS Research Support Program was announced, Archaeology Southwest prepared a proposal and it was submitted and was consequently awarded. B. Project Objective: The purpose of the development of a cultural resources geodatabase for the Perry Mesa District will provide both the cultural resource staff and managers quick and reliable resource information; greatly improving on the ability to make informed management decisions. Having the geodatabase also improves our ability to provide the public with detailed information about the history and nature of the fourteenth century occupation of the Agua Fria National Monument. Leading to better and more informed interpretive programs for the public and an enhanced visitors experience. The Geo database will also greatly assist non-governmental researchers in accessing the data and the ability to integrate it into their educational or research needs. The landscape of Perry Mesa is of intense interest to both the Hopi Tribe and Yavapai people. Prehistoric Hopi pottery appears on archaeological sites of the area and the tribe has a strong record of engagement with scientific research. The Yavapai Prescott live nearby and Perry Mesa is within the Yavapai traditional use area. Both the Yavapai Prescott and the Fort McDowell Yavapai have expressed interest in scientific research into the areas past occupation. Understanding past occupation, land use, and ecological development through spatial analysis will allow for the opportunity to better serve their cultural and historical interests of their past, thus bolstering our partnership of protecting the cultural resources
Office: Bureau of Land Management
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