 |
MANAGEMENT SUMMARY
Archaeological Services at the University of Massachusetts Amherst completed a community-wide archaeological reconnaissance survey of the town of Bolton, Massachusetts. The study was conducted for the Bolton Historical Commission and the Massachusetts Historical Commission for the purpose of identifying previously recorded and potential cultural resources areas within the town. Data recovered during this survey are part of a management plan that is to be integrated with a local comprehensive plan for future town development.
The Town of Bolton has a wealth of historic and prehistoric archaeological sites within its boundaries. Some of the sites are derived from collections in agricultural areas and are partially disturbed. Residential development in Bolton has increased in recent years, and small housing developments, single-family homes, Title 5 septic facility upgrades, road widening, and similar construction projects having the potential to impact archaeological sites. It is recommended that the town establish a system of review designed to protect important archaeological sites.
The system would begin with a review authority through which proponents of construction apply for permits. The logical group in town would be the Bolton Planning Board. Using the site sensitivity map provided with this document, the Board can determine if a proposed construction site falls within a zone of high to moderate site potential. If it does, the project should be given to the Bolton Historical Commission for review. If the Historical Commission, using the site potential outlined in the survey units described in the report, soils maps, and historic maps, determines that a site may be significant, the advice of the Massachusetts Historical Commission should be requested. If through this process a site is determined to be significant, the proponent should be encouraged to modify project plans to avoid the site, and
place it under a Site Preservation Restriction. The Site Preservation Restriction is a legal document in which the proponent agrees not to damage the site. If development were proposed in the future, archaeological survey could be required by the Commission. Compliance with Site Preservation Restrictions would be the duty of the Commission. If archaeological site preservation were not acceptable to the proponent, the survey requirement would apply.
The town should adopt regulations (possibly town by-laws) designed to protect archaeological sites from destruction through ground-alteration activities. (It is recommended that the town refer to the Standards and Criteria used by the Martha=s Vineyard Commission as a model for development of a by-law for local review purposes.)
| |
