ANOTHER BLUE RIDGE CONUNDRUM: DISAMBIGUATING LANDFORMS AFFECTED BY LANDSLIDES AND NATIVE QUARRYING IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

The geomorphological convergence of genetically different landforms is a major challenge for landslide mapping in Western North Carolina. These challenges are especially apparent with lidar interpretation and are becoming more evident in the field. We present observations and interpretations that support a new paradigm for Holocene landscapes in the southern Blue Ridge of North Carolina: hillslopes and rock outcrops on slopes pervasively affected by ground disturbance related to historic mining and pre-contact Native (American), stone quarrying/mining targeted at an array of potential stone types and for a variety of functions, such as subsistence stone tool manufacture, cooking/storage vessel production, minerals for decorative pigments, items for personal or ceremonial adornment or simply economic commodities of exchange between peoples.

As we continue to explore this new paradigm, we are identifying some previously mapped and inventoried landslides and reinterpreting them as Native quarry and mining landforms. We also identified instances where some landforms disturbed by quarrying/mining were stable during intense rainstorms, including 2024 Tropical Storm Helene, while others became unstable.

We present integrated lidar and field interpretations of geological conditions and Native quarrying activities through the lens of geoarchaeology. We discuss some initial guidance on landslide mapping approaches, classifications, and protocols under this new paradigm.