Tracking shoreline change using archaeology: A case study from Copano Bay, Texas

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the erosion of archaeological sites around the shores of Copano Bay. The research data for this project comes from three sites that are on the shore of Copano Bay: 41AS3, 41AS109, and 41RF18. The majority of the data was gathered from site 41RF18 during field work in 2005. A description of methods used in the fieldwork and of the findings is included. Annual rates of erosion and the amount of time these sites have before completely eroding into the bay is determined. The methods used to determine the rates of erosion are discussed and the historical data gathered through archival research is also presented. Finally, preservation efforts for archaeological sites around Copano Bay are proposed.