Archaeological survey

Definition

An archaeological survey is a systematic examination of a landscape to identify, record, and evaluate cultural resources and artifacts that may be present on the surface or buried beneath the ground. This practice is essential for understanding the historical significance of an area and forms a critical component of historic preservation efforts, helping to protect sites before they are altered or destroyed by development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Archaeological surveys can be non-invasive, using techniques such as remote sensing or aerial photography, to minimize disturbance to the site while still gathering valuable data.
2. Surveys can help identify not only individual artifacts but also patterns in land use, settlement locations, and transportation routes over time.
3. Different methods of surveying can include pedestrian surveys, where teams walk across a landscape looking for artifacts, or geophysical surveys that utilize technology to detect subsurface features.
4. Regulatory frameworks often require archaeological surveys to be conducted before any ground-disturbing activities to ensure that significant cultural resources are protected.
5. The results of an archaeological survey can inform preservation plans and influence decisions about land use, ensuring that important historical sites are preserved for future generations.

Review Questions

• How does an archaeological survey contribute to the understanding and preservation of cultural heritage?
  • An archaeological survey plays a vital role in understanding cultural heritage by systematically identifying and recording artifacts and sites that reflect human history. By documenting these resources, archaeologists provide essential data that informs preservation efforts and helps prioritize which sites need protection. This process ensures that significant historical narratives are recognized and maintained for future study and appreciation.
• Discuss the legal and ethical implications associated with conducting an archaeological survey in areas targeted for development.
  • Conducting an archaeological survey in development areas raises important legal and ethical considerations. Legally, many regions require surveys to comply with laws aimed at protecting cultural resources before construction can begin. Ethically, archaeologists must balance development needs with the responsibility to preserve significant historical sites. This often involves engaging with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that their heritage is respected and protected.
• Evaluate the impact of technological advancements on archaeological survey methods and their effectiveness in historic preservation practices.
  • Technological advancements have significantly enhanced archaeological survey methods by introducing tools like remote sensing, GIS mapping, and drones. These technologies allow for more efficient and comprehensive data collection without extensive excavation. The integration of technology improves the accuracy of identifying potential sites while minimizing disturbance to the land. As a result, these innovations not only increase the effectiveness of surveys but also strengthen the overall historic preservation practices by ensuring that vital cultural resources are documented and preserved.

Related terms

Cultural Resource Management: The field of practice focused on managing and preserving cultural resources, including historic sites, landscapes, and artifacts, often involving legal compliance and public engagement.

Site Assessment: The process of evaluating a specific archaeological site to determine its significance, condition, and potential for preservation, often following an archaeological survey.

Fieldwork: Hands-on research conducted in the outdoors where archaeologists collect data, conduct excavations, and carry out surveys to gather information about past human activities.