Geophysical Investigations At The Chimney Rock Great House, Colorado
Sarah G. R. Devriese, Michael A. Mitchell, Roxanna N. Frary · 23rd EEGS Symposium on the Application of Geophysics to Engineering and Environmental Problems · 2010
In conjunction with the National Forest Service, a number of different geophysical datasets were collected over the region adjoining the southwest end of the Great House at Chimney Rock, Colorado. The investigations aim to determine if the foundations for more rooms exist in this region, as early archeological sketches indicate. The following types of datasets were collected: magnetic, frequencydomain electromagnetic (FEM), DC resistivity (middle gradient and 2D dipole-dipole), and microgravity. This multipronged approach was used to provide a diverse range of data types, all of which have different physical property sensitivities. Since the expected physical property contrast between the wall foundations and possible room infill has yet to be characterized, it is difficult to determine which of the utilized methods will produce the best results. A thorough analysis of our geophysical field data along with the results gleamed from processing and inversion, will allow us to develop a meaningful interpretation, upon which recommendations for future investigations can be based. By determining whether or not the additional rooms exist, this study will help archeologists and the National Forest Service characterize the extent of the Chimney Rock Great House, plan future archeological studies, and set a basis for future geophysical investigations at the site.