Using Geomorphic Data to Model Prehistoric Archaeological Site Occurrences along Blackwater River, Santa Rosa County, Florid

Geomorphic investigations were conducted during 2015-2017 at two locations within the Blackwater River-Bay Complex. The project aimed to gain an understanding of Paleoindian archaeological site occurrences in the study area, while placing them within the context of environmental change. The study employed a myriad of marine geophysical surveying techniques, diver investigations, and vibracore extractions from a tripod-mounted vessel. Vibracores were then sampled for organic content before being analyzed using a Malvern Mastersizer 3000 particle sizer. Stratigraphic units were coupled with radiocarbon assays, which showed a strong correlation to data collected on prehistoric hurricane landfalls in the northern Gulf. Moreover, the radiocarbon assays relate to pronounced periods of prehistoric occupations along the Blackwater River-Bay complex during the Late Woodland and Mississippian periods. This is perhaps owing to a later development of the estuary system.