Submitted by Richard Moss (DNR-Historic Preservation Division)

The Historic Preservation Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources now employs two additional archaeologists, Rachel Black and Richard Moss. Black serves as a review archaeologist and is primarily responsible for assessing archaeological investigations conducted by/for the Georgia Department of Transportation. Staff archaeologist Moss conducts archaeological surveys on state lands to identify and protect archaeological sites threatened by foresting activities.

Rachel Black obtained a Bachelors Degree in Anthropology from the University of Tennessee, a Masters Degree in Bioarchaeology from the University of Arkansas, and is currently working on her PhD in Historic Bioarchaeology at the University of Florida. She specializes in the study of social stratification based on race, ethnicity, class, gender, and age through archaeological means. She has 10 years experience in archaeology primarily in cultural resource management and Section 106 review and compliance concentrating in the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic United States.

Richard Moss attended the University of Georgia where he received his Bachelors Degree in Anthropology in 2007 and his Masters Degree in Archaeological Resource Management in 2010. Prior to working for DNR, Richard worked with several cultural resource management firms on survey and testing projects throughout the Southeast. His interests lie in the prehistoric archaeology of Georgia and the Southeast, especially the Mississippian Period.

In addition to their primary duties, both new hires bring additional skills to the archaeology section of the division. Rachel has experience in historic cemetery site file management and preservation consultation while Richard has GIS experience. Additionally, both Black and Moss assist in HPD’s public education and outreach initiatives.

Posted online on Thursday, March 17th, 2011