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Archaeologic and Forensic Services

 

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We use the utmost care when providing archaeologic or forensic surveys, understanding the importance of our findings.

 

The main goal of archaeological and forensic geophysical surveys is to preserve the heritage and artifacts by reducing destructive excavation, and to assist criminal investigators with their cases. Anomalies are often subtle and it is critically important to select the most appropriate geophysical tools for the job. The approach to identifying Indian middens comprised of clay or refuse is substantially different than locating skeletal remains or a buried vehicle. Unlike most other geophysical firms that offer archaologic services, we offer specialized grave location services.

 

Typical objectives of an archaeological and forensic geophysical survey include:

• Locate unmarked grave sites
• Assist with criminal investigations
• Conduct "treasure hunts"
• Determine the location of former ground surfaces
• Determine boundaries of former human occupation
• Locate individual or caches of buried items

 

Precise location and re-location of anomalies is achieved using detailed site sketches relative to permanent site features, or by using land survey techniques, such as RTK-GPS or total station systems. Occasionally our customers require the data be presented in a geographic information system (GIS) format to capture all the attributes (e.g., aerial photos, site features, cultural resource information).

 

Key benefits of using geophysics in archaeological and forensic surveys:

• Archaeologists or criminal investigators can use the geophysical data to map/profile existing and potential sites without extensive excavation
• Data are gathered using non-invasive, non-destructive methods and contributes to the development of site strategies, conservation, preservation, and, if necessary, accurate location of excavation units
• Using complimentary geophysical data types improves interpretations and together with GIS enables archaeologists to develop composite maps of new information about the lives and livelihoods of ancient civilizations as well as social hierarchies and cultural values
• Provide information on the subsurface that is not economically obtainable by other means

 

Typical surface methods utilized by FPM for Archaeological and Forensic projects:

 

• Electrical resistivity
• Ground penetrating radar (GPR)
• Potential field (magnetic, gravity)
• Frequency and time-domain Electromagnetic (EM)