Stantec Consulting Ltd. Stantec 130-2886 Sunridge Way NE, Calgary AB T1Y 7H9
October 26, 2016 MV2016E0006 File: 144902381.300 MV2016E0025
Attention: Mr. Glen MacKay Assessment Archaeologist NWT Cultural Places Program Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre PO Box 1320 Yellowknife, NT X1A 2L9
Dear Mr. MacKay,
Reference: Archaeological Impact Assessment: Department of Transportation – Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6, Interim Report #1 Archaeologist Permit 16-003 Permit Holder and Report Author: Matthew Moors, M.A. (Stantec Consulting Ltd.) Project Conservator: Prof. Elisabeth Robertson, Ph.D. Proponent Contact: Alexander Murray (Department of Transportation, GNWT) PO Box 1320, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2L9 – Ph: 867-688-1144, Email: [email protected]
On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), Department of Transportation (DOT), Stantec Consulting Ltd. (Stantec) conducted an Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) for the proposed Eastern Segment of the Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources along Highways 3, 5 and 6 (the Project). The proposed Project will involve the development of 18 borrow sources and related facilities (i.e., along Highways 3, 5 and 6 (Figure 1). In early 2016, a desktop Archaeological Overview Assessment (AOA) was completed for the initial comprehensive program of proposed GNWT DOT borrow sources, associated with highways 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7. The AOA report was submitted to the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC), with recommendations for the completion of a targeted AIA for all areas of high archaeological site potential. The PWNHC agreed with this recommendation, as communicated by letter on April 5, 2016. The program was subsequently divided into two portions – one which encompassed the portions west of Fort Providence (primarily along Highways 1 and 7) and one which encompassed the portions to the east, along Highways 3, 5 and 6, in the Great Slave Lake area.
An application for a Class 2 archaeological research permit to conduct an AIA for the eastern portion was prepared and submitted to the PWNHC on March 18, 2016. The proposed program was subsequently approved through the issuance of Northwest Territories Class 2 Archaeologist Permit # 16-003 (June 9, 2016). The western portion of the program was assessed under Permit # 16-004, directed by Ty Heffner. As discussed in the permit application, an interim report detailing preliminary results and recommendations is being provided to facilitate a proposed winter 2016/2017 construction start for the Project.
Design with community in mind
Gamètì Wekweètì
Lac La Martre
Whati`
Edzo
Yellowknife H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\overview_map_1249.mxd Revised: 2016-10-21 By:EStrangward Yellowknife Highway 3 Km 122.0 Yellowknife Highway Km 3 285.0
Yellowknife Highway 3 Km 80.6
Great Slave Lake Fort Mackenzie HighwayProvidence 1 Fort Yellowknife Highway 3 Resolution
Hay Kakisa Lake River Pine Point Fort Resolution Highway 6 Enterprise Fort Resolution Highway 6 Prospect #4,5,7,12,14,15
Fort Resolution Highway 6 Prospect #11 Fort Smith Highway 5 Km 63.0 & Km 64.5 + Extension Fort Smith Highway 5 Northwest Territories Fort Smith Alberta Saskatchewan Fort Smith Highway 5 Km 84-W, 84-E, 84-E 3200 & 3800, 89.1
Slave River
Lake Athabasca
Legend 0 50 100 Kilometres Borrow Source Wood Buffalo National Park 1:3,500,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Place Location Road
Project Location 144902381 Watercourse NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 085 F/04, 095 B/11, Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Provincial/Territorial Boundary 095 H/06, 096 E/07 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Client/Project Waterbody Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources
Figure No. Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD83 / NWT Lambert 1 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Borrow Sources Overview releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. Eastern Segment Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
PROJECT DESCRIPTION The AIA focused on 18 borrow sources, intended to provide materials for maintenance of highways 3, 5 and 6. Many of the proposed borrow sources are extensions on existing pits or other existing disturbances. Because of this, the need for new access construction is minimal, with many locations utilizing existing access while others will require modification of an existing winter road and/or cut line. One location (Highway 3, km 80.6) also includes a stockpile location adjacent to the highway. Development of the borrow sources will result in vegetation removal, stripping, and excavation, resulting in deep and extensive impacts to these locations. In total, there are three borrow sources along Highway 3, eight along Highway 5, and seven along Highway 6 (see Table 1). Table 1 Overview of the AIA schedule
Highway KM or Prospect # General Involved Local Total# of Dates Area Community Crew (2016)
Yellowknife Highway #3 80.6 Fort Deh Goh Got'ie 3 Oct 1-3 Providence Yellowknife Highway #3 122.0 Fort Deh Goh Got'ie 3 Sept 30 Providence Yellowknife Highway #3 285.0 Behchoko Tlicho 4 Oct4 Fort Smith Hiahwav #5 63.0 Buffalo River Katlodeeche 3 Sept 25 Fort Smith Highway #5 64.5 Buffalo River No assistance 2 Sept 28- available 29 Fort Smith Highway #5 64.5 Extension Buffalo River No assistance 2 Sept 28- available 29 Fort Smith Hiohwav #5 84.8-W Buffalo River Katlodeeche 4 Sept 24 Fort Smith Highway #5 84.8-E Buffalo River No assistance 2 Sept 27 available Fort Smith Highway #5 84.8-E (3200 m) Buffalo River Deninu K'ue 4 Sept 21- 22, Sept 26 Fort Smith Highway #5 84.8-E (3800 m) Buffalo River Deninu K'ue 4 Sept 21- 22, Sept 26 Fort Smith Hiohwav #5 89.1 Buffalo River Katlodeeche 4 Sept 23 Fort Resolution Hiqhwav #6 11 (km 23.6) Pine Point Deninu K'ue 4 Sept14 Fort Resolution Highway #6 4 (km 25.5) Pine Point Deninu K'ue 4 Sept16 Fort Resolution Hiahwav #6 5 fkm 36.3} Pine Point Deninu K'ue 4 Sept15 Fort Resolution Hiohwav #6 12 (km 36.3) Pine Point Deninu K'ue 4 Sept15 Fort Resolution Highway #6 15 (36.3) Pine Point Deninu K'ue 4 Sept16 Fort Resolution Highway #6 14{km 36.8) Pine Point Deninu K'ue 4 Sept16 Fort Resolution Hiohwav #6 7 (km 36.8) Pine Point Deninu K'ue 4 Sept17
METHODS The proposed Project will traverse lands associated with the traditional territories of four First Nation Communities in the Northwest Territories including: the Tlicho, Deh Gah Got'ie, Katlodeeche, and Deninu K'ue. While within the traditional territories, the appropriate community was contacted and engaged (see Table 1). This engagement included the participation of wildlife monitors and/or community assistants during conduct of the field surveys, when participants were available. Preparation for the AIA began with the compilation of an Archaeological Overview Assessment (AOA) of available information sources including topographic maps, surficial geology information, the territorial archaeological site database, previous archaeological permit reports, aerial
Page 3 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1 photography. ethnographic and historic information. The assessment of archaeological potential was assigned through the evaluation of several criteria including:
• the topography of an area (elevated. well-drained) • general proximity to water sources (streams, creeks, rivers. and lakes) • association with confluence areas (including lake inlets/outlets) • proximity to recorded archaeological. historical. and traditional features (including sites and trails) • any specific areas of traditional significance. Based on these parameters, the areas of archaeological potential were selected for each of the associated borrow sources. It was understood that these could be modified in the field, to refine and/or correct the desktop assessment. Each of the proposed borrow sources assessed in the AOA contained areas of high archaeological potential; these areas were mapped. The AOA was submitted to the PWHNC for review in early 2016. Based on PWNHC response (April 5, 2016), an AIA was required for high potential areas. As noted above, the program was then divided into two portions - one which encompassed the portions west of Fort Providence (primarily along Highways 1 and 7) and one which encompassed the portions to the east, along Highways 3, 5 and 6, in the Great Slave Lake area. The proposed program was subsequently approved through the issuance of Northwest Territories Class 2 Archaeologist Permit# 16-003 (June 9, 2016). The western portion of the program was assessed under Permit # 16-004, directed by Ty Heffner. The in-field assessments for the Project were conducted under the supervision of Matthew Moors, M.A. The crew worked through September and early October to complete the assessments (see Table 1) under snow-free and frost-free, late summer/early fall field conditions. Due to the proximity of the Project footprint to high grade highways, a single crew was assembled to conduct the field assessment. This crew consisted of two archaeologists with participation from wildlife monitors and/or aboriginal assistants drawn from the local communities associated with the various assessment areas (see Table 1). Each of the borrow sources was accessed via truck and pedestrian traverse. The archaeological potential of each granular supply source was refined in the field. Information available for the desktop assessment was sometimes lacking or not sufficiently detailed. Little previous archaeological research has been conducted in the area, resulting in a lack of previously recorded site locations. The surficial geology information was relatively coarse, as were mapped glacial features (e.g. eskers, kames, beach ridges). Accordingly, while the selected target areas formed the basis of the field assessment, a visual review of the entirety of the Project footprint was undertaken through pedestrian traverse. The borrow sources were typically focused on landforms that were higher and better-drained than surrounding areas, coinciding with areas of high potential. The assessment therefore generally focused on these specific landforms. At the discretion of the crew lead, areas outside of the pre-selected areas of archaeological potential were subject to a more intensive field assessment. The assessment sources involved walking the area of potential and excavating shovel tests to assess subsurface deposits, as warranted. In areas that had recently experienced forest fires, the shallow sediment deposits allowed for cultural remains to be scanned for visually, with fewer shovel tests necessary to determine if an archaeological site was present. As the landforms associated with the borrow sources tended to be comprised of pebble-sized sediments or
Stantec Page 4 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1 bedrock, excavations typically were undertaken to between 5 and 10 cm below surface (BS). When sediments consisted of sand deposits, shovel tests were excavated to between 25 and 45 cm BS. Whenever possible, the contents of the shovel tests were screened using portable hand screens, with a 6.0 mm by 2.9 mm diamond-shaped mesh, and manually sorted. Portions of the borrow sources and associated access/stockpiles were not examined or shovel tested if they were determined to be of low archaeological potential based on either the desktop AOA or in field observations.
RESULTS The study area landscape is typical boreal forest, with alternating areas of spruce, pine and aspen and a variety of interconnecting mixedwoods. Despite the vast distances traversed over the course of the AIA program, sediments encountered on the landforms assessed were relatively uniform - shallow and underlain by pebble- to boulder-sized gravel or bedrock. Thick sandy deposits were occasionally encountered. Over the course of the entire AIA program conducted in 2016, a total of 1836 shovel tests and/or exposures were used to assess subsurface deposits (Table 2; Figure 2 to Figure 8). Exposures were typically expanses of exposed bedrock or shallow sediments, often denuded of vegetation by recent forest fires or previous exploration activities. All shovel tests were negative, with no cultural materials encountered. However, eight cultural sites were identified during the AIA field studies (see Appendices AB, and CJ, including four historic sites and four contemporary TLU locations. Historic materials were observed at four sites (MC-01, MC-03, MC-04, and MC-06) (Table 3) . Generally, only bottles and tin cans that were historic (> 50 years old) or that exhibited distinguishing marks were collected. Two additional sites were recorded but initial analysis of the material recovered suggested the artifacts were recent. The generic nature of the material precluded an interpretation of the sites as traditional land use (TLU) locations, given that the only materials encountered were tin cans. A total of four sites determined to be contemporary TLU locations were also recorded, all of which were newly recorded {Table 4). These sites include two cabins and two camps associated with traplines.
Page 5 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Table 2 Summary of AIA Results
Figure# Highway KM (Prospect) Number of Sites Shovel Identified Tests/Exposures
2 Yellowknife Hiahwav #3 80.6 57 TLU-3, TLU-4 3 Yellowknife Hiqhwav #3 122.0 176 - 4 Yellowknife HiQhwav #3 285.0 16 - 5 Fort Smith Hiahwav #5 63.0 145 TLU-2 5 Fort Smith Highway #5 64.5 - 268 5 Fort Smith Highway #5 64.5 Extension 6 Fort Smith Hiahwav #5 84.8-W 210 - 6 Fort Smith Hiahwav #5 84.8-E 118 - 6 Fort Smith Highway #5 84.8-E (3200) 272 - 6 Fort Smith Highway #5 84.8-E (3800 m) 6 Fort Smith HiQhwav #5 89.1 138 - 7 Fort Resolution Highway #6 11 (km 23.6) 136 MC-01 8 Fort Resolution Hiahwav #6 4 (km 25.51 45 MC-06 8 Fort Resolution Hiahwav #6 5 (km 36.3) 53 MC-03, MC-04 8 Fort Resolution HiQhwav #6 12 (km 36.3) 30 - 8 Fort Resolution Highway #6 15 (36.3) 0 - 8 Fort Resolution Hiahwav #6 14(km 36.8) 1 TLU-1 8 Fort Resolution Hiahwav #6 7 (km 36.8) 171 -
Table 3 Summary of Archaeological Sites
Site Site Type Context Visibility Heritage Position relative to Recommendation Field Value assessment # footprint
MC-01 Historic Undisturbed Surface Low Within No additional work Scatter MC-03 Isolated Find Undisturbed Surface Low Within No additional work MC-04 Isolated Find Undisturbed Surface Low Within No additional work Historic Surface, Avoidance; Consult with MC-06 Undisturbed High Within Cairn/Burial Subsurface local community
Table 4 Summary of Contemporary TLU Sites
Site# Site Type Position relative to assessment footprint TLU-1 Cabin Within TLU-2 Trapline/Camp Within TLU-3 Trapline/Tent Frame Within TLU-4 Cabin Within
Stantec Page 6 of 66 490000 495000
220 m
6840000 Yellowknife 6840000 Hwy 3 km 80.6 Borrow Source H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\144902241_50_YH_80_6_v3.mxd Revised: 2016-10-21 By:EStrangward
220 m
Initial Access
220 m
TLU-3 TLU-4 Yellowknife Highway 3
Alternate Access Caen Lake
Stockpile Area 6835000 6835000
490000 495000
Contour Shovel Test/ Exposure 0 500 1,000 metres Road Trap 1:50,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Watercourse Newly Recorded Site YellowknifeHighway Waterbody Archaeological Potential
Wetland Existing Development Project Location 144902381 NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 Wooded Area Borrow Source 085F/11 Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Client/Project Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources 2. Source: CanVec produced Natural Resources Canada Figure No. 2 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Yellowknife Highway 3 km 80.6- releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. AIA Results 525000
220 m 6865000 6865000
Chan Lake Wayside 240 m Park H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\144902241_50_YH_122_v3.mxd Revised: 2016-10-21 By: EStrangward
Chan Lake Yellowknife Highway 3
240 m
Yellowknife Hwy 3 km 122.0
6860000 240 m 6860000
240 m 240 m
240 m
240 m 240 m 240 m 525000
Contour Shovel Test/ Exposure 0 500 1,000 metres Road Archaeological Potential 1:50,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Watercourse Existing Development Waterbody Borrow Source Wetland Project Location 144902381 NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 Wooded Area 085F/11 Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Yellowknife Highway Client/Project Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources 2. Source: CanVec produced Natural Resources Canada Figure No. 3 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Yellowknife Highway 3 km 122.0 - releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. AIA Results 590000 190 m 6950000 6950000
180 m
170 m H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\144902241_50_YH_285_v3.mxd Revised: 2016-10-21 By: EStrangward
Yellowknife Hwy 3 km 285.0 170m 180m
180m
180m
170m 170m Yellowknife Highway 3
170m 6945000 6945000
160 m
Great Slave Lake
590000
Contour Shovel Test/ Exposure 0 500 1,000 metres Cutline Archaeological Potential 1:50,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Yellowknife Highway Road Borrow Source Trail
Watercourse Project Location 144902381 NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 Waterbody 085J/11 Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Great Slave Lake Wetland Client/Project Wooded Area Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources 2. Source: CanVec produced Natural Resources Canada Figure No. 4 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Yellowknife Highway 3 Km 285.0 - releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. AIA Results 620000 625000
Fort Resolution Highway 6
230 m 6735000 6735000
Fort Smith Hwy 5 km 63.0 240 m
TLU-2 Fort Smith
H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\144902241_50_FSH_63_64_v4.mxd Revised: 2016-10-21 By: EStrangward Fort Smith Hwy 5 km 64.5 Hwy 5 km 64.5 Extension
Fort Smith Highway 5
250 m
260 m 6730000 6730000
620000 625000
0 500 1,000 Fort Contour Shovel Test/ Exposure metres Cut Line Trap 1:50,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Resolution Highway Road Newly Recorded Site Watercourse Archaeological Potential
Fort Smith Waterbody Borrow Source Project Location 144902381 Highway NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 Wetland 85B/10 Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Wooded Area Client/Project Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources 2. Source: CanVec produced Natural Resources Canada Figure No. 5 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Fort Smith Highway 5 km 63.0 & releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. 64.5 + Extension - AIA Results 635000 640000
6725000 Fort Smith Highway 5 6725000 84.8-E 3800 m
250 m 240 m
270 m
260 m Fort Smith Highway 5 84.8-E 3200 m 260 m H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\144902241_50_FSH_83_89_v4.mxd Revised: 2016-10-21 By: EStrangward Fort Smith Hwy 5 km 84.8-W Fort Smith Hwy 5 km 84.8-E
270 m 270m 270 m
Fort Smith Highway 5
270 m
6720000 270 m 6720000
260 m
Fort Smith Hwy 5 km 89.1
260 m
635000 640000
Contour Culturally Modified Tree 0 500 1,000 metres Fort Smith Highway Cut Line Shovel Test/ Exposure 1:52,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Road Archaeological Potential Trail Borrow Source Watercourse Project Location 144902381 NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 Waterbody 85B/09 & 85B/10 Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Wood Buffalo National Park Wetland Client/Project Wooded Area Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources 2. Source: CanVec produced Natural Resources Canada Figure No. 6 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Fort Smith Highway 5 km 84.8-W, 84.8-E, releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. 84.8-E 3800 m, 84.8-E 3200 m, 89.1 -AIA Results 635000
210 m 6750000 6750000 190 m
220 m
Fort Resolution MC-01 Hwy 6 Prospect #11
220 m
220 m
230 m H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\144902241_50_FRH_11_v3.mxd Revised: 2016-10-21 By: EStrangward
y 6 wa 230 m gh Hi ion olut es 6745000 rt R 6745000 Fo
635000
Great Slave Lake Contour Culturally Modified Tree 0 500 1,000 metres Cut Line Shovel Test/ Exposure 1:50,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Road Test Excavation Trail Newly Recorded Site
Watercourse Archaeological Potential Project Location 144902381 NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 Fort Waterbody Borrow Source 85 B/15 Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Resolution Highway Wetland Client/Project Wooded Area Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources 2. Source: CanVec produced Natural Resources Canada Figure No. 7 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Fort Resolution Highway 6 Prospect releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. #11 - AIA Results 645000 650000
200 m Fort Resolution Hwy 6 Prospect #7 6755000 6755000
Access
Fort Resolution
H:\External ProfitCentre\144 BC\144902241\mxd10\144902241_50_FRH_4_5_7_12_14_15_v4.mxd Revised: 2016-11-28 By: EStrangward Hwy 6 Prospect #14 Fort Resolution Hwy 6 Prospect #12
210 m Fort Resolution TLU-1 Hwy 6 Prospect #5
MC-06 MC-03 Access Fort Resolution
6750000 Hwy 6 Prospect #15 6750000
220 m
MC-04
Fort Resolution Hwy 6 Prospect #4 Fort Resolution Highway 6
645000 650000
Great Slave Lake Contour Culturally Modified Tree 0 500 1,000 metres Cut Line Outhouse 1:55,000 (at original document size of 8.5x11) Road Shovel Test/ Exposure Trail Test Excavation
Watercourse Newly Recorded Site Project Location 144902381 Fort NTS Mapsheet(s): Prepared by EStrangward on 2016-10-20 Waterbody Archaeological Potential 85 B/16 Technical Review by KPeach on 2016-10-21 Independent Review by JTischer on 2016-10-21 Resolution Highway Wetland Borrow Source Client/Project Client: Government of the Northwest Territories Wooded Area Borrow Source Removed Project: Archaeological Impact Assessments of Notes from Program 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources 2. Source: CanVec produced Natural Resources Canada Figure No. 8 Title Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient Fort Resolution Highway 6 Prospects releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data. #4,5,7,12,14,15 - AIA Results Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
RESULTS: YELLOWKNIFE HIGHWAY #3 There are three supply sources along Highway 3, including sources at kms 80.6, 122.0, and 285.0. The source at km 80.6 (Figure 2; Plate 1 to Plate 9) includes a large dome-shaped hill with boulder sized clasts comprising the core of the hill, proposed as a granular supply source (Plate 2). The borrow source requires development of a new all season access road and a laydown/stockpile area along the highway. The slope of the hill is at a low grade, lacking sharp topographic relief and rising gently from surrounding muskeg. The water features associated with the hill included a small pond to the southwest and a small seasonal creek to the south. Each of these were over 100 m away from the borrow source, with treed muskeg situated between the water feature and the targeted landform. The low grade of the slope and distance from water suggests the landform has moderate potential for precontact archaeological sites. The all season access road was originally proposed to follow an existing cutline, extending from the highway across the centre of the targeted borrow source landform (Plate 3). Though the cutline crosses watercourses, suggesting high archaeological potential, the associated impacted landforms have been previously disturbed. The cutline is currently used as a trap line, as indicated by evidence of recent maintenance, with deadfall along the trapline cut to clear the path (Plate 4 and Plate 5). There are two habitation sites along the cutline, including an abandoned tent frame (TLU-3; Plate 6) and a cabin (TLU-4; Plate 7). Both sites are associated with the trapline, which is currently being used by Joe Canadian, a resident of Fort Providence. To avoid impacting the cabin and tent frame, the proposed borrow source access was moved to the laydown area along the highway and intersects the cutline after crossing the watercourses. Both the laydown area (Plate 8) and the alternate access (Plate 9) are situated in low areas lacking topographic relief, indicating low archaeological potential. No sites were found in association with either the laydown or the alternate access. The granular supply, alternate access, and laydown area were assessed using a total of 57 shovel tests and exposures. The exposures were primarily situated with burned areas on the main granular supply. The laydown area and alternate access were shovel tested. The proposed granular supply borrow source at km 122.0 (Figure 3; Plate 10 to Plate 17) of Highway 3 includes a large dome-shaped hill (Plate 10 and Plate 11), with pebble-sized clasts comprising the core of the hill. The source is expanding a small gravel pit (Plate 12) situated at the end of a modern winter road (Plate 13), which will be used for access. There are two small lakes (Plate 14 and Plate 15) situated in proximity to the landform targeted, one to the south and one bisected by the western edge of the borrow source. The portion of the landform in proximity to these waterbodies is of high potential. The visibility of the ground surface was exceptional due to shallow sediments, recent forest fires, and numerous tree throws (Plate 16 and Plate 17). In addition, the area was primarily shovel tested between the two lakes and on a small ridge overlooking both water bodies. In total, 176 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. No sites were observed at the km 122 borrow source or along the associated access route. The proposed bedrock borrow source at km 285.0 (Figure 4; Plate 18 to Plate 20) of Highway 3 includes multiple dome-shaped granite outcrops. The source is expanding an active gravel pit situated to the northeast of the project, and the existing access will be used for the expansion. The topography of the outcrops is undulating with muskeg situated between outcrop exposures (Plate 18). There are wetlands situated to the west of the supply source (Plate 19), and the relief of the
Stantec Page 14 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 1 View northwest to dome shaped hill to be developed; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Plate 2 View west of ground surface on hill; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Page 15 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 3 View northwest of vegetation on hill along cutline; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Plate 4 View of cut deadfall along cutline; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Stantec Page 16 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 5 View of trap along cutline; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Plate 6 View west of tent frame at TLU-3; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Page 17 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 7 View east of cabin at TLU-4; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Plate 8 View west of vegetation within laydown area; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Stantec Page 18 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 9 View northeast of vegetation along alternate access road; Hwy 3 km 80.6
Plate 10 View northeast of vegetation; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Page 19 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 11 View east of vegetation; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Plate 12 View south of gravel pit to be expanded; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Stantec Page 20 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 13 View north of winter road for access; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Plate 14 View west of lake at western edge of supply source; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Page 21 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 15 View south of lake to south of supply source; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Plate 16 View of ground surface; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Stantec Page 22 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 17 View of tree throw; Hwy 3 km 122.0
Plate 18 View south of bedrock outcrop to be developed for supply source; Hwy 3 km 285.0
Page 23 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 19
Plate 20 View south of vegetation in swales on outcrop; Hwy 3 km 285.0
Stantec Page 24 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1 outcrops and proximity of water suggests the landform has moderate to high archaeological potential. Sediments on the landform were restricted to small swales in low portions of the outcrop (Plate 20) . These swales acted as sediment traps where moss and colluvium from the top of the outcrop collects and soils form. These swales would accumulate sufficient material to allow for small trees to grow. A total of 16 shovel tests were excavated in these swales. No sites were observed at the km 285.0 borrow.
RESULTS: FORT SMITH HIGHWAY #5 The granular supply borrow source at km 63.0 (Figure 5; Plate 21 to Plate 28) of Highway 5 includes a low hill surrounded by muskeg (Plate 21 ). The source is expanding an abandoned gravel pit (Plate 22) situated to the west of the project. with the abandoned access (Plate 23) to be used for the expansion. The sediment is primarily pea-sized gravel mixed with sandy sediments near the surface. The relief of the hill was relatively sharp, rising as much as three meters from the surrounding muskeg (Plate 24) . The sharp relief and potential for water in close proximity indicates the landform had moderate potential. As the landform had not been recently burned, the assessment was conducted primarily through shovel testing, though tree throws were also encountered. A total of 145 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the land form. A trap line camp (TLU-2; Plate 25) was encountered along the southern edge of the landform. This camp contained a discarded trap (Plate 26), cut stumps (Plate 27), and a tin can midden (Plate 28). The tin cans were of recent age, many without rust. The granular supply borrow source and associated extension at km 64.5 (Figure 5; Plate 29 to Plate 34) of Highway 5 include a long linear ridge surrounded by muskeg (Plate 29 and Plate 30). The source is expanding an active gravel pit (Plate 31). This pit is included in the western portion of the proposed development footprint and the expansion will use the existing access. The sediment is primarily pebble-sized gravel, though certain locations had sand near the surface. The relief of the hill was relatively sharp, rising as much as three meters from the surrounding muskeg (Plate 32). There are two small ponds in the western half of the extension and near the eastern edge of the original footprint for the source (Plate 33 and Plate 34) . The proximity to water, topographic relief, and linear nature of the landform suggested that the landform has medium to high potential. A fire removed past vegetation, and the young regrowth is relatively dense. The ground was covered by vegetation, making the surface visibility poor. Scattered tree throws situated along the landform provided some visibility. Still, shovel testing was the primary means of assessment, especially in sandy areas close to the water sources. A total of 268 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. No sites were observed at the km 64.5 source. The two borrow sources at km 84.8-W and km 84.8-E (Figure 6; Plate 35 and Plate 36) of Highway 5 include a long linear ridge surrounded by muskeg. The highway bisects the ridge; both sources were presumably a part of the same landform. The sources both extend to the highway, providing direct access. The sediment in both km 84.8-W and 84.8-E sources is primarily pebble-sized gravel, providing granular, overburden and bedrock supply. The relief of the hill is relatively sharp, rising as much as three to five meters from the surrounding muskeg. The proximity to water, topographic relief, and linear nature of the landform suggested that the landform has medium to high potential. Recent fires impacted the hill, the sediments on the landform were shallow, and there were numerous tree throws, making for good visibility of the ground surface (Plate 37). As such the landform was primarily assessed through examining exposures, though shovel testing occurred to supplement the visual inspection.
Page 25 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 21
Plate 22 View west of gravel pit to be expanded; Hwy 5 km 63.0
Stantec Page 26 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 23
Plate 24 View south of muskeg near landform; Hwy 5 km 63.0
Page 27 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 25 View east of TLU-2; Hwy 5 km 63.0
Plate 26 View of discarded trap at TLU-2; Hwy 5 km 63.0
Stantec Page 28 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 27 View east of cut stump at TLU-2; Hwy 5 km 63.0
Plate 28 View east of tin can midden at TLU-2; Hwy 5 km 63.0
Page 29 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 29 View west of vegetation along ridge; Hwy 5 km 64.5
Plate 30 View east of vegetation along ridge; Hwy 5 km 64.5
Stantec Page 30 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 31 View west of gravel pit to be expanded; Hwy 5 km 64.5
Plate 32 View east of muskeg to east of borrow source; Hwy 5 km 64.5 extension
Page 31 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 33 View west of small pond in eastern half of borrow source; Hwy 5 km 64.5 extension
Plate 34 View north of small pond in eastern half of borrow source; Hwy 5 km 64.5 extension
Stantec Page 32 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 35 View east of vegetation along ridge; Hwy 5 km 84.8-W
Plate 36 View south of vegetation along ridge; Hwy 5 km 84.8-E
Page 33 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 37 View of ground surface along ridge; Hwy 5 km 84.8-W
Stantec Page 34 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
A total of 210 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform at km 84.8-W with an additional 118 at the km 84.8-E borrow source. No sites were observed at either borrow source location.
Two borrow sources are located within one larger footprint at Highway 5 km 84.8 Lt. The 3200m location at the south end of the footprint will provide overburden and bedrock materials, while the 3800m location at the north end will provide granular supply (Figure 6; Plate 38 to Plate 41). The borrow source footprint includes a large dome-shaped hill (Plate 38), with pebble-sized clasts comprising the core of the hill. There are sand deposits along portions of the eastern edge of the hill that are likely glacial beach ridges. The relief of the hill is relatively sharp, rising as much as 20 meters from the surrounding muskeg. The topographic relief and possible proximity to the receding glacial lake suggest that the landform has moderate to high archaeological potential. Recent fires have impacted the hill, the sediments on the landform were shallow, and there were numerous tree throws, making the visibility of the ground surface exceptional (Plate 40 and Plate 41). The borrow source is not an expansion of an existing source, requiring the development of new access. Due to the excellent surface visibility, the landform was primarily assessed through examining exposures, though shovel testing occurred to supplement the visual inspection. A total of 272 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform and access road at km 84.8 (3200 and 3800m). No sites were observed at the km 84.8 (3200m and 3800m) sources or proposed access. The granular supply borrow source at km 89 .1 (Figure 6; Plate 42 to Plate 47) of Highway 5 includes a long linear ridge surrounded by muskeg (Plate 42). The source is expanding an active gravel pit (Plate 43), located in the western portion of the proposed expansion footprint. The expansion will use the existing access. The sediment is primarily pebble-sized gravel, though certain locations had sand sediments near the surface, primarily within small sand dunes at the eastern edge of the development (Plate 44). The relief of the hill was relatively sharp, rising as much as three meters from the surrounding muskeg. The topographic relief and linear nature of the landform suggested that the landform has moderate to high potential. One culturally-modified tree (CMT) was noted in the eastern portion of the development, with bark removed and a tool mark present (Plate 45). Recent fires impacted the hill, the sediments on the landform were shallow, and there were numerous tree throws, making the visibility of the ground surface excellent (Plate 46 and Plate 47). As such the landform was primarily assessed through examining exposures, though shovel testing occurred to supplement the visual inspection. A total of 138 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. No sites were observed at the km 89.1 borrow source.
Page 35 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 38 View east of vegetation along hill; Hwy 5 km 84.8-E (3200 and 3800)
Plate 39 View east of vegetation along access road; Hwy 5 km 84.8-E (3200 and 3800)
Stantec Page 36 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 40 View of ground surface along hill; Hwy 5 km 84.8-E (3200 and 3800)
Plate 41 View of ground surface along hill; Hwy 5 km 84.8-E (3200 and 3800)
Page 37 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 42 View east of vegetation along ridge; Hwy 5 km 89 .1
Plate 43 View west of gravel pit to be expanded; Hwy 5 km 89.1
Stantec Page 38 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 44 View north of small sand dune in eastern section; Hwy 5 km 89 .1
Plate 45 View of CMT with tool mark; Hwy 5 km 89.1
Page 39 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 46 View of ground surface along ridge; Hwy 5 km 89 .1
Plate 47 View of tree throw along ridge; Hwy 5 km 89.1
Stantec Page 40 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
RESULTS: FORT RESOLUTION HIGHWAY #6 The granular supply borrow source at Prospect 11 (km 23.6) of Highway 6 (Figure 7; Plate 48 to Plate 51) includes a long linear ridge surrounded by muskeg (Plate 48). The source is expanding an abandoned gravel pit (Plate 49). This pit is included in the eastern portion of the proposed borrow source footprint and the expansion will use the existing access. The sediment is primarily coarse sand and pea-sized gravel. The relief of the hill was relatively sharp, rising two to three meters from the surrounding muskeg. The topographic relief and linear nature of the landform suggest that the landform has moderate to high archaeological potential. One CMT was noted near the centre of the development, with several tool marks on the north side of the tree (Plate 50) . Though tree throws were scattered along the landform, the surface of the landform was covered with moss and other forms of vegetation. As such the landform was primarily assessed through shovel testing. A total of 136 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. One historic site (MC- 01) was observed at km 23.6. This site is discussed in detail in the next section. Several test pits (Plate 51) were noted on the landform, and were likely associated with testing the landform for its potential to be used as a borrow source. The trees growing in the test excavations reached widths as great as 15 cm in diameter, suggesting the pits were excavated several years ago.
The granular/common borrow source at Prospect 4 (km 25.5) of Highway 6 (Figure 8; Plate 52 to Plate 57) includes a long flat section formally in use as an airstrip for the Pine Point town site (Plate 52). An abandoned open pit mine is situated to the east of the source (Plate 53). The sediment is shallow and situated directly over bedrock. The construction of the airstrip impacted much of the surface to be utilized as the granular supply source. Despite this, there are thin pockets of undisturbed vegetation surrounding the airstrip, separated from the main landform by a berm of sediment (Plate 54), likely pushed from the graded surface of the airstrip. The flat topography coupled with the disturbance from the airstrip indicates the landform has little remaining archaeological potential. Surface visibility was poor and the assessment was primarily conducted by shovel testing. A total of 45 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. Due to the shallow deposits and the presence of bedrock near the surface, many of the shovel tests consisted of scraping the moss from the bedrock. Along the southeastern edge of the development, there is a small outhouse with cut stumps and associated debris (Plate 55 to Plate 58). There was no material suggesting an age for this outhouse, and it is thought to be recent. An historic site (MC-06) is situated along the northwestern edge of the source. This site is discussed in detail in the next section. The granular and bedrock supply borrow source at Prospect 5 (km 36.3) of Highway 6 (Figure 8; Plate 59 to Plate 65) includes a large flat section. The sediment is shallow and situated directly over bedrock. The source is expanding an abandoned gravel pit (Plate 58). This pit is included in the eastern portion of the proposed development footprint and the expansion will use an existing access road from Prospect 12 (Plate 61). The flat topography suggests the landform has low archaeological potential. Surface visibility was poor and the assessment was conducted primarily by shovel testing. A total of 53 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. There were test excavations scattered through the development, possibly related to mine development (Plate 62) . One of the pits was filled with debris, likely related to the town of Pine Point (Plate 63 to Plate 65). Trees growing within the excavated pits were as wide as 10 cm in diameter, suggesting the pits were excavated several years ago. Two historic sites (MC-03 and MC-04) are situated within the source. These sites are discussed in detail in the next section.
Page 41 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 48 View west of vegetation along ridge; Hwy 6 Prospect 11
Plate 49 View southwest of gravel pit to be expanded; Hwy 6 Prospect 11
Stantec Page 42 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 50 View of CMT with tool marks; Hwy 6 Prospect 11
Plate 51 View southwest of test excavation; Hwy 6 Prospect 11
Page 43 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 52 View northeast of air strip to be utilized as the borrow source; Hwy 6 Prospect 4
Plate 53 View east of mine; Hwy 6 Prospect 4
Stantec Page 44 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 54 View north of berm; Hwy 6 Prospect 4
Plate 55 View north of outhouse; Hwy 6 Prospect 4
Page 45 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 56 View south of cut stumps associated with outhouse; Hwy 6 Prospect 4
Plate 57 View east of debris associated with outhouse; Hwy 6 Prospect 4
Stantec Page 46 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 58 View east of debris associated with outhouse; Hwy 6 Prospect 4
Plate 59 View north of vegetation; Hwy 6 Prospect 5
Page 47 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 60 View north of gravel pit to be expanded; Hwy 6 Prospect 5
Plate 61 Access road to be utilized; Hwy 6 Prospects 12 and 5
Stantec Page 48 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 62 View north of test excavation; Hwy 6 Prospect 5
Plate 63 View north of test excavation filled with debris; Hwy 6 Prospect 5
Page 49 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 64 Example of debris within test excavation; Hwy 6 Prospect 5
Plate 65 Example of debris near test excavation; Hwy 6 Prospect 5
Stantec Page 50 of 66
Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
The overburden and bedrock supply borrow source at Prospect 12 (km 36.3) of Highway 6 (Figure 8; Plate 67 to Plate 69) includes a large flat section (Plate 66). The sediment is shallow and situated directly over bedrock. A portion of the access will utilize an existing access road likely associated with the gravel pit at Prospect 5. Access to the highway will require the construction of a connection between the two, within an area that is low and flat with portions consisting of muskeg. The flat topography suggests the landform has low archaeological potential. Two CMTs (Plate 67 and Plate 68) were noted in the northern portion of the development. Surface visibility was poor and the assessment was conducted primarily by shovel testing. A total of 30 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. No sites were observed at the Prospect 12 borrow source.
The overburden and bedrock supply borrow source at Prospect 15 (km 36.3) of Highway 6 (Figure 8; Plate 69) of Highway 6 includes a small flat section. The flat topography, including some muskeg, indicates the landform has low archaeological potential. As such, shovel testing was not conducted. No sites were observed at the Prospect 15 borrow source.
The overburden and bedrock supply borrow source at Prospect 14 (km 36.8) of Highway 6 (Figure 8; Plate 69 and Plate 70) includes a small flat section. The flat topography with a portion comprising of muskeg indicates the landform has low archaeological potential. As such, shovel testing was not conducted at the source. One exposure was used to assess this source. A cabin (TLU-1; Plate 71) was noted at Prospect 14, and was recently constructed by a resident of Fort Resolution (Greg Balsillie) as indicated by the aboriginal assistant. This prospect has been subsequently removed from Project plans.
The borrow source at Prospect 7 (km 38.3) of Highway 6 (Figure 8; Plate 72 to Plate 75) includes a series of small linear ridges. The area is proposed to supply overburden, bedrock, and granular materials. The sediment is shallow and situated directly over bedrock in the western portion of the development and pea-sized gravel in the eastern portion. Surface visibility was poor and the assessment was conducted primarily by shovel testing. A total of 171 shovel tests and exposures were used to assess the landform. One tin can was noted within the borrow source footprint; it did not contain any distinguishing marks or manufacturing attributes (Plate 73). As such it was not considered to represent a historic site. More likely it represents modern use of the general area. The access road utilizes an existing haul road in use when the Pine Point mine was active and will generally traverse muskeg between the haul road and the supply source (Plate 66 and Plate 75). As such, the access road was considered to have low archaeological potential, though the borrow source was considered to have moderate to high potential. No sites were found within the footprint for Prospect 7.
Page 51 of 66 C} Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 66 View west of vegetation; Hwy 6 Prospect 12
Plate 67 View west of CMT; Hwy 6 Prospect 12
Stantec Page 52 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 68 View west of CMT; Hwy 6 Prospect 12
Plate 69 View north of vegetation; Hwy 6 Prospect 15
Page 53 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 70 View north of vegetation; Hwy 6 Prospect 14
Plate 71 View north of cabin; Hwy 6 Prospect 14
Stantec Page 54 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 72 View southwest of vegetation; Hwy 6 Prospect 7
Plate 73 View of tin can; Hwy 6 Prospect 7
Page 55 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 74 View south of proposed access to be constructed; Hwy 6 Prospect 7
Plate 75 View west of proposed access using existing haul road; Hwy 6 Prospect 7
Stantec Page 56 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
SITE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS Site MC-01 (Figure 9; Plate 76 and Plate 77) is a small scatter of four tin cans associated with a small test excavation on Prospect 11. The excavation is situated along a small north-south trending cutline with a partially overgrown trail running towards the east. One of the tin cans, a 7-Up can with the slogan 'Wet and Wild', is likely dated to 1965 to 1967, based on the slogan. The remaining cans post-date 1965 with one post-datingl 970. Due to the presence of the 7-Up can, the site is likely historic (greater than 50 years old). Based on the relatively recent date and the limited number of artifacts, site MC-01 is considered to be of low interpretive potential. As such, no further work is recommended for site MC-01 and no modifications to Prospect 11 with regards to MC-01 are recommended. Site MC-03 (Figure 1O; Plate 78 and Plate 79) is a small isolated find of a tin can associated with two test excavations on Prospect 5. This tobacco can is embossed with the slogan 'From Coast to Coast' on the lid, which provides a date between 1900 and 1960. As such, the site is likely historic (i.e.> 50 years old). Based on the relatively recent date and the single recovery, site MC-03 is of low interpretive potential. As such, no further work is recommended for site MC-03 and no modifications to Prospect 5 with regards to MC-03 are recommended. Site MC-04 (Figure 11 ; Plate 80 and Plate 81) is a small isolated find of a bottle associated with two test excavation on Prospect 5. The bottle is embossed with 'National Drug and Chemical Company of Canada Limited ... Sole Distributors of Canada'. The bottle has a cork seat closure as well as heavy seams and small bubbles scattered through the glass. The bottle is estimated to have been used between 1928 and 1950 based on these feature. As such, the site is likely historic. Based on the relatively recent date and the single recovery, site MC-04 is of low interpretive potential. As such, no further work is recommended for site MC-04 and no modifications to Prospect 5 with regards to MC-04 are recommended. Site MC-06 (Figure 12; Plate 82 and Plate 83) consists of a small rectangular cairn with an associated midden of tin cans situated on Prospect 4. The cans were estimated to have been used between 1925 and 1960. The cairn consists of a 2 m by 2 m mound with approximately 50 cobbles of bedrock, presumably taken from the surrounding surface. The cairn is lined with logs on the north and west edges, with a fallen tree situated along the eastern edge. The size and shape of the cairn is reminiscent of a grave. It should be treated as such unless it can be definitively established that it does not contain human remains. Five tin cans were found nearby, situated to the north. Three of the cans have distinguishing features. Two of the cans were 1quart oil cans with 'Imperial Product Marvalube' on the front. The cans were labelled in English and display only Imperial measurements. As such, these are suggested to date between 1925 and 1970. The third can is labelled 'Swift Brookfield Brand Butter'. There is a lack of information for canned butter but, based on the label, it possibly dates to the 1950s. As such, the site is likely historic. Given the possibility the site is a grave, site MC-06 is of high interpretive potential and cultural sensitivity. Avoidance of site MC-06 is recommended, preferably through limiting the borrow source to the east side of the berm. It is suggested that DOT contact the Deninu K'ue at Fort Resolution to develop an avoidance strategy. If the site is confirmed to be a burial, permanent fencing may be the best means of providing long-term protection. It is recommended that the plans for Prospect 4 be modified to accommodate the agreed upon avoidance strategy for site MC-06.
Page 57 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
LEGEND
D Negative Shovel Test
0 Su rface Find
I I I I I I I Contour
• TreedArea
Figure 9 Site MC-01
Stantec Page 58 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 76 View east of test pit containing tin cans; site MC-01
Plate 77 View east of overgrown trail; site MC-01
Page 59 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
N A
0 2 4 6 8
Metres
N.T.D.B. 1:50 ,000 DATA IN SET MAP NO.: 85B/16 LEGEND ', \ ..,.-- \ \ \'' \ \ \ \ \ © Surface Find \ \ \ \ \ \ I I I I I 11 Contour \ \ \ MC-03 0 \ \ \ \ \ Stantec
Figure 10 Site MC-03
Stantec Page 60 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 78 View west of test excavation; site MC-03
Plate 79 View south of test excavation; site MC-03
Page 61 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
N A
0 Bottle
0 2 4 6 8
Metres
N.T.D.B. l :50,000 DATA INSET MAP NO.: 858/16 LEGEND
0 Surface Fi nd
I It I I I I Contour
Stantec
Figure 11 Site MC-04
Stantec Page 62 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 80 View south of test excavation (west); site MC-04
Plate 81 View south of test excavation ( east); site MC-04
Page 63 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
N A
Airport Footprint
N.T.D .B. l :50,000 DATA INSET MAP NO.: 85B/l 6 LEGEND ' ...- \ \ ··- ----· \ \ . \ \ A ·-·\ 0 Surface Find \ __. \ :' , 220 m ,\ • Cairn '\.,, MC06 \ \ \ ', I I I I I I I Contour 0 \ \ \ \ \ \ \ • TreedArea \ \ Stantec
Figure 12 Site MC-06
Stantec Page 64 of 66 Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources, Eastern Segment, Highways 3, 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
Plate 82 View east of cairn; site MC-06
Plate 83 View north of test excavation; site MC-04
Page 65 of 66 Stantec Highway Corridor Granular Supply Sources. Eastern Segment. Highways 3. 5 and 6 Interim Report #1
The findings of this AIA pertain only to the development as outlined within this interim report. Any changes or additions to the Project must be reviewed in terms of archaeological concerns and the potential need for further assessment. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this assessment. please contact me at your earliest convenience. Regards, STANTEC CONSULTING LTD.
Matthew Moors Senior Archaeologist Phone: 403-47 6-1062 Fax: 403-244-4701 [email protected]
Stantec Page 66 of 66