Blog Information

• Posted By : bluestone research
• Posted On : Apr 04, 2024
• Views : 52
• Category : General
• Description : Finally, the lead archaeology consultant puts all data into a technical report. It outlines results and smart solutions suited to the project's needs and risks. The report states clearly what was found. It gives practical advice to protect Ontario’s cultural heritage based on finds. This allows efficient, compliant decisions. It also provides all documentation for required heritage filings. Good reporting balances development plans with responsible archaeological conservation. This keeps projects on time and budget while following laws.

Overview

• An archaeological assessment is a legally required process in Ontario prior to land disturbances like construction. It protects and documents archaeological resources by systematically surveying, excavating and analyzing a property.

  Navigating an assessment can be complex for those unfamiliar with provincial heritage regulations. In this article, we’ll walk through the 5 key phases that comprise a complete archaeological assessment led by expert consulting archaeologists.

  Stage 1: Background Study

  

  An assessment always starts with a Stage 1 background study and analysis of documented archaeological potential on the subject lands. Here’s what this initial phase covers:

  Review provincial land registry and databases for registered sites

  Geomatic analysis of topography, hydrology and past land uses

  Archaeological potential modeling through air photo study

  Recommendation on whether property warrants Stage 2 field assessment

  This critical first step filters out low-risk sites early to avoid unnecessary fieldwork. Desktop analysis also shapes an efficient Stage 2 scope targeting areas of concern.

  

  Stage 2: Property Inspection

  Where Stage 1 indicates archaeological potential, an on-site Stage 2 survey is required. Fieldwork specialists walk the property, analyzing land characteristics while excavating shallow test pits regularly. Key Stage 2 tasks include:

  Pedestrian survey of ploughable lands and visual inspection

  Test pit excavation every 5-10m in areas of interest

  Documentation of soil stratigraphy and screening for artifacts

  Assessing presence of archaeological sites and artifact density

  Stage 2 culminates in a report detailing results and next steps to address any discovered resources appropriately.

  Stage 3: Site-Specific Assessment

  If cultural materials are found during Stage 2 indicating occupation, an intensive Stage 3 assessment occurs to delineate the site’s boundaries horizontally and vertically. Field crews use close-interval test pits, then hand excavate units in a grid pattern. Key Stage 3 work includes:

  Controlled topsoil removal exposing archaeological deposits

  Expanded grid testing to map horizontal boundaries

  Hand excavation of 1m x 1m square units in systematic levels

  Documentation of soil layers, features, artifacts and eco data

  This yields detailed data on the nature, density and significance of sites identified.

  Stage 4: Archaeological Excavation

  For sites with artifacts or features requiring preservation or rescue, extensive Stage 4 excavations ensue. This carefully removes and documents remain before construction disturbances. Tasks involve:

  Stripping topsoil mechanically under supervision

  Expanded excavation to expose features fully

  Systematic soil removal in thin, level horizons

  Documentation and analysis of all finds

  Recovered materials are processed on-site and stored for analysis and conservation.

  Stage 5: Reporting & Compliance Recommendations

  Finally, the lead archaeology consultant puts all data into a technical report. It outlines results and smart solutions suited to the project's needs and risks. The report states clearly what was found. It gives practical advice to protect Ontario’s cultural heritage based on finds. This allows efficient, compliant decisions. It also provides all documentation for required heritage filings. Good reporting balances development plans with responsible archaeological conservation. This keeps projects on time and budget while following laws.

  Conclusion

  Get trusted guidance through all phases of assessment with Ontario-based Bluestone Research. Their expert archaeologists have 30+ years experience providing leading archaeological consulting services across the province.