9318930 Culbert Under the direction of Dr. Patrick Culbert, Mr. Jeffrey Baker will collect data for his doctoral dissertation. He will conduct geoarchaeological research in lowland Belize. Mr. Baker wishes to reconstruct agricultural practices of prehistoric Mayan peoples. In particular he wants to understand cultivation techniques which were practiced in lowland areas or "bajos" which are waterlogged for portions of the year. He will employ both geological and ecological techniques to study the nature of bajo soils, their chemistry and their water retention characteristics. He will study the vegetation of a number of bajo types to understand the relationship between soil, water and vegetation. Finally he will also conduct archaeological excavation to determine whether fields underwent human modification and how Mayan peoples used them. Archaeological evidence demonstrates that ancient Mayan peoples were able to farm low-lying tropical areas and produce enough food to support large populations. While many archaeologists believe that this was accomplished through a system of raised fields and that landscape was extensively modified, others disagree. Unfortunately the basic geological and ecological data necessary to address this question does not exist. The research which Mr. Baker will conduct should help to remedy this problem. This project is important for several reasons. Ancient Mayan peoples thrived in regions which today support only small populations. Prehistoric peoples had developed agricultural techniques which, if reconstructed could have direct practical benefit. The project will also further the development of an extremely promising young scientist. ***
