So today mother and I went out to Highbanks. We took the CORRECT trail and hiked to the earthworks. We drenched ourselves in bugspray and went out, laden with soil probes, pin flags, and various other bits and bobs. The day started out warm but not terrible and by the time we got to the earthworks we were in the shade of the forest so it wasn't too bad. The hike off the trail and on top of the earthworks was very exciting. We saw the vernal pool which is home to salamanders and frogs. The site covers about 10 acres of heavily forested area so the hike out to the cliff-edge was work for sure.
The first thing that mom and I noticed was the topography inside the earthworks. From all of the maps and etchings I have seen of the earthworks it is apparently flat inside but what we observed was a very different landscape. Inside the earthworks seemed to be a smaller ravine and what appeared to be another mound or ring possibly. It was very interesting and we are going to do some hunting to see if we can find someone in Ohio that has software that allows for tree-penetrating aerial survey/radar. It would be extremely helpful if we could get an aerial shot of the site. Elizabeth and Debbie, the naturalists at Highbanks, came out to the site and walked around with us for a while. They are both really excited about the project and I am so grateful for their support.
We took a few cores and did some surveying today before we decided to head back. I think I have found two possibilities for pit locations, which I flagged so that we can find them again.
Headed back out tomorrow, but for today I need a shower and a nap. Very tired and gross, it got hot towards the end of our visit.
Stay tuned for more information, we are headed back out tomorrow so we will see what happens!!
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