Abstract

CRM survey of a pipeline corridor stretching across uplands to the southeast of Grande Prairie resulted in the discovery of the Smuland Creek site. Preliminary testing yielded an artifact assemblage diagnostic of earliest prehistoric times in the Peace Region. The elevation of the site lies within the range of strandline features associated with the uppermost and earliest levels of Glacial Lake Peace (Bessborough Stage). Further survey in the immediate area resulted in the identification of an upland beach ridge that yielded additional prehistoric artifacts but no diagnostics. Previous archaeological research in the area has recognized potential associations between palaeoindian sites and younger phases of Glacial Lake Peace development (Clayhurst Stage). The new discoveries present evidence for earlier human presence in the region that may be associated with older, upland glacial lake features. The merits of this hypothesis are examined, and the implications for palaeoindian site prospection and predictive modeling in the region are discussed.