The Project

Aims

This project aims to develop both the capacity for rapid recovery, documentation, assessment and reburial that meets object conservation requirements and a forensic approach to data collection and management in a GIS database. Specifically it will develop a sophisticated protocol for the rapid excavation, detailed recording and reburial of significant shipwrecks at risk, fostering a strategic national approach for shipwreck management. To achieve the aims of the protocol the project will:

  • Develop innovative techniques to rapidly record vessel fittings and objects using 3D laser imaging;
  • Record the sedimentary and biological context of the wreck and monitor its condition following reburial;
  • Trial, monitor and evaluate the reburial of “at-risk‟ materials away from the site in more stable conditions;
  • Correlate underwater experimental data with data obtained from geoarchaeology on land; and
  • Collect palaeoenvironmental samples to inform on voyaging tracks, ports of call and previous cargos.

 An Optimal Day

Given good weather conditions it is hoped that the project can operate on a schedule that looks something like this – we call it “An Optimal Day” and if we ever have one we will certainly let you know.