Pima County Land Exchange Survey [No. 151]

Abstract

This archaeological survey was conducted for Pima County in connection with a recent land trade agreement. Approximately 19.2 square kilometers were surveyed: 9.7 square kilometers near the Pima County Fairgrounds and 9.5 square kilometers in Tucson Mountain Park. Nineteen sites were recorded by the survey; three are on the Fairgrounds property and 16 are in Tucson Mountain Park. Five belong primarily to the historic period, and 14 are primarily prehistoric. The prehistoric sites range from stone quarries, to hilltop camps with rock features, to long-term camps near drainages. The environmental zone model that structured the survey was determined to be useful, but only in a general way. Some problems are discussed about the applicability of this and other similar models for future survey work. Recommendations are that, with the exception of the northern part of Section 15, archaeological clearance be granted for the Fairgrounds parcels. In Tucson Mountain Park, sites are legally protected and no land modification is planned. However, if the Park plans any improvements, such as trails or interpretive exhibits, it is recommended that all sites be avoided. It is also recommended that the archaeological and historical resources not be signed and that attention not be called to their locations.