Cultural Resources Assessment

Within the Lake Wateree Study Area, there are 37 previously recorded cultural resources all of which are archaeological sites. There are no architectural resources associated with Lake Wateree. The archeological resources span from the Early Archaic through the Historic time periods. In addition to the sites in the state files, there are three additional historic sites of which Duke Power staff are aware that Duke considers to be potential cultural resources. They are the canal remains below Rocky Creek Hydroelectric Project, the Harrison Cemetery, and the town site near the Cedar Creek Access Area.

The majority of the archaeological sites include occupations of the Archaic period including several single component Early Archaic and Late Archaic sites. Many of the other sites are multicomponent habitation sites with ceramic and/or lithic artifacts. There are two mounds in the area. One is located underwater. The second, known as Blanding’s Mound, is a Mississippian Mound questionable in its location. Two other sites are partially underwater.

There are no archaeological sites listed in the National Register. There are two sites that are potentially eligible within the study area. The first site, spanning from the Early Archaic to the Historic period, is a lithic scatter site. The second site is a Middle to Late Archaic site that contains lithic artifacts.

The information on both the archaeological and architectural sites from the state files is being used in preparation of the predictive model to assign the shoreline on Lake Wateree either a High, Medium, Low, or No probability for the occurrence of cultural resources. Prior to the completion of the model non-exempt activities such as excavation projects, commercial marina development, and certain conveyance projects will be provided to the appropriate SHPO for review before construction or excavation activity begins within the project boundary. To ensure the potential impact to cultural resources is properly evaluated after completion of the predictive model, Lake Management will review the predictive model for all non-exempt activities. Applicants for all non-exempt lake use permitting activities in medium and high probability areas will be required to consult with the appropriate SHPO regarding their proposal.