Going Over Old Ground: developing effective geophysical survey methodologies for Maryland’s archaeological sites

Summary

As geophysical techniques become more frequently integrated into archaeological investigations in Maryland, methodologies are being refined, and their potential is becoming better understood across the discipline. Many factors affect the successful outcome of these non-invasive surveys, including the specific natural conditions and archaeological features at a site, but also careful selection of appropriate techniques and data collection strategies. This presentation will review a variety of geophysical surveys from the last 8 years in Maryland, illustrating ways in which these methods are enhancing how we conduct archaeology and manage cultural resources. These case studies demonstrate the potential of geophysical survey for going well beyond simply locating anomalies for subsequent excavation. Detailed maps of buried remains are helping us to define site extent, examine the spatial arrangement of features, and interpret site function, thereby assisting in ongoing research and management.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• "Maryland, My Maryland": Current Archaeology in the State   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2016

Keywords

Spatial Coverage

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 656