* The Archaeology of Volcan Mountain *
It is challenging to summarize the varied cultural resources of the Volcan Mountain region. However, several observations can be made regarding these sites:
- The prehistoric sites are in good condition, and have not been damaged by recent fires or fire suppression activities; however, the historic Grand site was severely damaged by fire and is near collapse Ñ and no funding exists to stabilize this structure.
- Most of the archaeological sites in the mountain region date to the Late Prehistoric period.
- Archaic period occupation is difficult to identify, although recent studies indicate it may be more common than previously thought.
- The production and use of ceramics was widespread, and decorations such as black or red pigments, or incising, were common.
- Pottery forms varied greatly, and were based on use; local and imported pottery types were common.
- Obsidian and other items from beyond the mountains were used at mountain sites.
- Prehistoric architectural features, such as rock rooms, rings, and enclosures, were common parts of camps and villages.
- Although the acorn was a major food resource, other plant foods were also exploited; oval basins in sites located along the edges of meadows may indicate processing of small seeds.
- Networks of seasonal camps and resource exploitation areas were linked by established trail systems.
- General ethnographic information is abundant, and is very useful in interpretation of cultural resources.