Specializing in prehistoric, historical and urban archaeology, GAI’s Phase I survey and Phase II evaluation methods utlitized on our client’s projects are designed to identify if archaeological sites are present both above and below the ground and to determine if they are eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Archaeological sites are located in several ways. In areas where the ground surface is visible, a pedestrian walkover is acceptable but in other areas where the ground is obscured, shovel tests or backhoe trenching may be required. At the conclusion of the survey we provide our clients a report detailing the results of the survey and presenting clear recommendations for either clearance, avoidance or any additional Phase II or Phase III work that might be required to satisfy Section 106. Our reports are provided to our clients for their review and we discuss our recommendations with them prior to the reports being submitted to SHPO and/or federal agencies for review.

Archaeological Investigation Projects 

Our preservation services are supported by a modern, well-equipped archaeology laboratory with GIS and CADD facilities, artifact storage areas, and photographic facilities with a photographic darkroom, and a large-format camera for adhering to stringent HABS/HAER standards. Our in-house laboratory staff specializes in prehistoric lithic analysis, ceramic analysis, mussel shell analysis, historical artifact analysis, and artifact photography.

Archaeology Laboratory/Artifact Analysis Projects 

GAI conducts historical research on a project for our clients to determine what is already known and recorded about the archaeological sites and historic properties in a project area. This can include examination of the state archaeological site files and historic structure files which contain information on previously recorded archaeological and historic sites in the state. Historic context studies may also be performed to gain a general understanding of the geology, the prehistory, and history of the surrounding locality. Informant interviews may occur to determine if Traditional Cultural Properties (TCPs) also exist in the project area or the immediate vicinity.

Assessment Planning/Studies Projects

As a planning tool, GAI uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to develop predictive models that locate areas most likely to contain archaeological sites within a project’s boundaries. This is usually reserved for large tracts of land or multiple alternative corridors where traditional field surveys are prohibitive and costly. Systems developed by GAI include spatial mapping as well as archived photographs, forms and inventories of resources. Developed with user-friendly interface, we provide our clients with the training they need to use the model for their in-house planning needs.

GPS Surveys/GIS Predictive Modeling Projects 

GAI clients appreciate the advantages of our in-house, full-time Certified Professional Soils Scientist (CPSSc). Through implementation of thorough geomorphic studies prior to any shovel testing, our clients can eliminate test areas, thus reducing the cost and work effort on further phases--a cost effective and time-sensitive approach accepted by FERC, NHPA, NEPA and State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPO). Additional services that support our archaeological analyses include detailed stratigraphic soil profile evaluations, ceramic thin section analysis, lithic sourcing studies and climate change analyses.

Geoarchaeology  Projects

Historic architectural resources include above-ground buildings, structures, sites, and districts. Our project experience ranges from large-scale architectural surveys for transportation and energy projects, to evaluations of buildings and districts for municipalities with CLG Grants. We conduct documentary research, National Register evaluations and nominations, and inventory surveys consistent with the procedures established by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation. We understand the complexities of Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act and how visual and cumulative effects can be resolved through identifying reasonable boundaries of historic districts, cultural landscapes, TCPs and viewsheds. Preservation plans and architectural design guidelines are also developed by GAI’s specialists to assist local governments with tax incentives and in their economic development efforts.

Historic Architecture Projects

With the emphasis on site stewardship, sometimes avoidance is the best decision for site protection. GAI has a 30-year history in designing and implementing full Phase III archaeological data recovery excavations for many different public agencies for both historic and prehistoric sites throughout the Mid-Atlantic states. However, clients can sometimes avoid costly excavation with alternate approaches. GAI has developed award-winning strategies to mitigate adverse effects to archaeological sites that cannot be otherwise avoided. Regional syntheses, public educational programs, artifact conservation projects, and many other creative ideas can be developed that satisfy the SHPO for Section 1067 requirements.

Phase III Projects 

Many legally binding documents are required to satisfy federal agencies that Section 106 guidelines are being followed. Our 30-years  experience has afforded GAI the opportunity to develop documents for diverse situations. From developing project-specific Programmatic Agreements that plan how historic properties will be handled, to writing Memoranda of Agreements mitigating adverse effects, to documenting culturally sensitive Native American consultations, GAI has been commended by several state and federal agencies for our timeliness and attention to detail.

Prog Agree/MOA Projects

From developing websites, to educational lesson plans, to popular reports and workshops on archaeological findings, GAI provides award-winning public outreach services to support Section 106 guidelines. Our clients say it best,

“GAI’s exceptional ability to coordinate the interests of the public, state and federal agencies, and the archaeological community, along with informed research and analytical approaches to the archaeological data of the Coverts Crossing site, documents the prehistory of the Mahoning Valley in a way that section 106 was intended.” (PA Bureau of Historic Preservation).

Public Coordination and Outreach Projects