Blog Information

• Posted By : bluestone research
• Posted On : Apr 22, 2024
• Views : 37
• Category : General
• Description : Choosing an experienced, reputable archaeological consulting firm brings immense value to projects requiring heritage assessments. From navigating legal obligations to providing practical recommendations balancing development plans with cultural conservation, the right partner mitigates risks while compressing timelines. For years, Bluestone Research has delivered trusted consulting services across Ontario. Partner with their team of leading archaeologists to ensure efficient, compliant assessments with strategic solutions tailored to your unique needs.

Overview

• If your construction or development project in Ontario triggers an archaeological assessment requirement, what should you expect when partnering with an archaeological research services firm? Knowing the assessment process, fieldwork, reporting and compliance steps brings confidence when selecting your heritage consultant.
  This article outlines what reputable archaeological consulting groups like Bluestone Research provide across all assessment phases so you know what to look for.

  Background Research Capabilities

  The initial Stage 1 background study sets the tone for efficiency. Look for consultants providing:
  Ontario land registry searches identifying registered sites
  Archaeologist potential mapping based on geomatic analysis
  Review of land use history through aerial photography
  Crystal-clear recommendations on Stage 2 requirements
  This remote analysis filters out low-risk sites early and steers Stage 2 fieldwork to high potential areas only.
  

  Field Survey Specialization

   
  For Stage 2 assessments, partner with archaeologists experienced across property types and terrain. Optimal fieldwork includes:
  Systematic walking of ploughable lands
  Inspection of exposed soil for artifacts
  Judgement-based test pit spacing and sizes
  Meticulous documentation of soil layers
  Screening of all excavated soils for finds
  Delineation of positive test areas for Stage 3
  Your consultant should be highly responsive in adjusting test pit survey intensity up or down based on discoveries.
  

  Site Delineation & Excavation

  Where Stage 2 finds important cultural materials, intensive Stage 3 assessment and controlled digging often follows. Quality consultants provide:
  Careful hand excavation in small grid units
  Precise mapping of site dimensions and boundaries
  Documentation of soil layers, features, objects
  On-site artifact conservation and analysis
  This gives detailed data to recommend protection solutions.
  For sites needing preservation or rescue, extensive Stage 4 excavation occurs before construction impacts the site. This involves:
  Supervised mechanical topsoil stripping
  Expanded hand excavation to uncover features
  Systematic soil removal and documentation
  Study and recording of all artifacts found

  Compliance Reporting & Risk Management

  Senior archeological consultants also provide appropriate compliance reporting and risk management recommendations. Robust reporting includes:
  Clear summaries of key assessment results
  Practical solutions aligned to discoveries
  Strategies integrating project plans and heritage conservation
  This allows efficient, compliant decisions protecting heritage.

  Heritage Conservation Ethics

  Quality Archaeological Research Services are committed to conserving cultural heritage where possible amidst project needs. They act as stewards facilitating preservation of Ontario’s past for future generations. Reputable advisers advocate balancing development plans with science-based strategies to avoid, preserve or rescue significant finds. They emphasize understanding and protecting artifacts using practical mitigation solutions scaled to a project’s unique demands. Choosing an adviser who values heritage conservation ethics ensures legacy items representing Ontario’s rich history are handled responsibly.

  Partner with Bluestone Research

  Choosing an experienced, reputable archaeological consulting firm brings immense value to projects requiring heritage assessments. From navigating legal obligations to providing practical recommendations balancing development plans with cultural conservation, the right partner mitigates risks while compressing timelines. For years, Bluestone Research has delivered trusted consulting services across Ontario. Partner with their team of leading archaeologists to ensure efficient, compliant assessments with strategic solutions tailored to your unique needs.