Excavations on Agricultural Terraces: Results of the 2004 Field Season at Chan, Belize
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Research Year:  2004
Culture:  Maya
Chronology:  Late Pre-Classic to Terminal Classic (300 B.C.–A.D. 925)
Location:  Cayo District, Belize
Site:  Chan

Table of Contents

Abstract
Introduction
The Chan Site:  Location, History, Previous Research
Research Goals
Results of 2004 Excavations:  Overview
Results of 2004 Excavations
Site A
Site B
Site C
Site D
Chronology
Discussion
Conclusions
Future Research at Chan
Acknowledgements
List of Figures
Sources Cited

Abstract

Archaeological investigations on the agricultural terraces at the site of Chan in the Belize River Valley were conducted in the summer of 2004.  A series of excavations on terrace walls, terrace beds, and associated structures and features were designed to provide a chronology of terrace construction and use, as well as provide data on how the terraces were farmed. Excavations demonstrated a high level of water management, including the capture of a natural spring, irrigation on the terrace beds, and small depressions used for the short-term storage of water. Preliminary analysis also indicates that the terraces at the Chan site were first utilized during the Late Formative and Early Classic periods. The findings from these excavations demonstrate that agricultural terracing in the Belize River Valley is more complex and of a longer duration than previously believed.

Submitted 10/12/2005 by:
Andrew R. Wyatt
awyatt1@uic.edu

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