Archaeological Predictive Model: Orchard Combat Training Center

The objective of this research is to help protect cultural heritage resources on Idaho National Guard lands that are protected by law and are significant to Idaho Native Americans and historically associated communities. By utilizing a predictive model previously developed by Michael Bishop, a Boise State University alumnus, with variables specific to the Idaho National Guard’s Orchard Combat Training Center (OCTC), a map was successfully produced that identifies areas of high probability for encountering archaeological sites. Working from the variables in Bishop’s predictive model, we used ArcGIS mapping software to select only those areas within the area of interest with a specific distance to hydrological features, elevation, and angle to hydrology. This map will be field-tested by conducting pedestrian survey and based on the results, the model will be refined to increase accuracy in future applications. We hope our research facilitates the management of cultural heritage resources within the OCTC and provides further research opportunities.