Ambergris Caye Belize Resort Development - Department of ...

assessment. If we are accurate, however, it would indicate that the small Franco
site (see below) might be within the boundaries of the property.
Survey Methodology
Given the property’s apparent proximity to the three archaeological sites noted
above, we decided to conduct an intensive survey of the property. To achieve
this goal a total of 17 transects were cut across the property (See Fig. 5). These
transects were labeled A to Q and they extended east to west from the sandy
beaches on the windward side of the island, to the Laguna Cantena on the
leeward side.
The lengths of each transect and the distances between transects are listed on
Table 1. GPS coordinates were also taken for all transects and these too can be
found listed in Table 1. During our survey all the transects were reconnoitered by
the cutting crew and later double checked by the authors. In addition to searching
along the transects for evidence of archaeological remains, our crew also
traversed the areas between the transects. These traverses were made along
the beach front, the crest of the dune, and along the lagoon side of the property.
These areas were purposely chosen because previous archaeological surveys
indicate that they are the typical locations of prehistoric settlements.
Excavations and Shovel Tests
In collaboration with the EIA consultant, two test pits and a shovel test were
conducted on Transect E. The tests were placed on and near the crest of the
dune, in an area with dark soils. In the descriptions of the Franco and Valencia
sites it will be noted that areas with dark organic soils are often associated with
prehistoric middens, hence our choice of location for the test units. Descriptions
and illustrations (Fig. 6) of the two units and shovel test are provided below.
Test Pit 1
The unit measured 1.40 m square and descended 1.6 m below surface. The
excavation revealed three stratigraphic levels in the unit. The first strata was a
30 cm layer of humus and roots. The second stratum was mostly sand and
measured between 50 – 70 cm. The third strata was roughly 60 cm thick and
consisted of a layer of limestone and sand.
Test Pit 2
This unit measured 1.30 m square and descended 2.40 meters from surface.
Like Test Pit 1, Test Pit 2 had three stratigraphic levels. Level 1 was represented
by a layer of humus/roots that extended 20-25 cm below
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