DISCOVERY BAY – An archaeological search for Native American remains and artifacts was well under way Wednesday at Beckett Point in an effort to resume work on a $2.8 million Jefferson County Public Utility District community septic system.

As of Wednesday afternoon, about 20 of at least 87 six-foot-deep test holes were dug by contractor Pape and Sons equipment, with a Wessen & Associates archaeologist monitoring the digging.

Recovered sediments are being screened at each location to find any cultural materials present.

Results will be recorded but no cultural samples will be collected, archaeologists have stated.

So far, no remains or artifacts have been uncovered using a shovel, auger and sifter, Parker said.

“They are there digging holes where the grinder pumps are to go in the ground, to see what’s down there,” said Jim Parker, PUD general manager overseeing the Beckett Point project, which has been delayed more than month.