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} ArchaeologiW Se>r' ces, I. r Based on these observations, we offer the following the observations regarding your proposed project 't historic resources such as mining and ranching remains are present and will need to be addressed as the project proceeds within the CEQA process. While no prehistoric resources were noted during my recent visit, my field examination was cursory, and their presence cannot be ruled out The proximity of the Mokelumne River, which was densely inhabited prehistorically, indicates that the project area was almost certainly used by prehistoric peoples. The nearness of the river suggests that people using the project area could easily have visited it and returned to primary sites on or near the river in a day. Therefore, the most likely kind of prehistoric resources would include chipped stone scatters, small processing stations, and t resource extraction sites. In summary, we feel that, while cultural resources are present within the project area, and additional resources of the type described above may also be present, they should not present a "fatal flaw" for the project Most of the observed historic resources will require recording and documentation as final mitigation; in some situations, site-specific study may be required but this would be limited in extent The situation with respect to prehistoric sites is the same as that described for historic resources. If prehistoric sites are discovered they must be recorded. If possible they should be set aside in open space. Where this is not possible, limited site-specific study would be necessary. Such study would be limited in extent I hesitate to cite specific costs for future site-specific work but I would be willing to review different situations with you. Please give me a call if you need additional information. Without doubt i additional funds should be set aside for field survey and site recording. A major mitigation effort is however very unlikely. During the permit application process mandated by CEQA, the County will more than likely I require a cultural resources survey. We recommend the following strategy be employed: upland areas should be subjected to a general survey using transects not greater than 50 meters apart Water courses, stream banks, flats, and slope areas near water courses should subjected to complete surveys using transects of not more 25 meter intervals. Ditches, fence lines, mining evidence and r ranching related areas should be recorded and mapped as per the requirements of the State archaeological inventory. Sincerely �...:.. —_._._.- .. ohn W. Dougherty St, rchaeologist Rog . Werner President I �.