how to make excavation plan

Excavation plans are crucial documents that guide archaeologists in conducting excavations. These plans are essential in ensuring that archaeological sites are excavated in a systematic and comprehensive manner. In this article, we will discuss the process of creating an excavation plan, the components of a good excavation plan, and the importance of following excavation plans.

Preparing for Excavation

Before creating an excavation plan, it is essential to carry out preparatory work. This involves conducting an initial site survey to determine the location and extent of the archaeological site. The survey should identify any features that may impact the excavation process, including natural obstacles such as trees or rocks, and any human-made structures such as buildings or roads.Once the survey has been completed, the next step is to prepare equipment and materials necessary for excavation. It is essential to ensure that you have all the tools, including shovels, sieves, brushes, and trowels, among others, needed for the excavation process. Further, personal protective equipment such as gloves, hats, and boots must be provided to ensure safety during excavation.

Crafting an Excavation Plan

The next step after preparatory work is to create an excavation plan. The plan should be comprehensive and tailored to the specific archaeological site. The excavation plan should include details such as the excavation objectives, the scope of the excavation, and the methods to be used in the excavation process.To create a good excavation plan, the following components must be included:

Site Map

A site map should be created, indicating the location of the archaeological site. The map should indicate features such as natural obstacles, roads, buildings, and any other significant features that may impact the excavation process.

Timeline and Schedule

The excavation plan should include a schedule indicating the start and end date of the excavation process. It is essential to include details on when excavation will take place and how long each process will take.

Excavation Method

The method of excavation should be clearly outlined, detailing how the excavation process will be carried out. The excavation method should be tailored to the specific site being excavated.

Recording and Documentation Procedures

The excavation plan should include the procedures and techniques for recording and documenting the findings during excavation. These procedures should be comprehensive, outlining all the information that must be recorded, including the location of artifacts and the context in which they were found.

Importance of Following the Excavation Plan

Following the excavation plan is crucial as it ensures that the excavation process is conducted systematically and comprehensively. Adhering to the plan helps archaeologists to avoid omitting critical information or making mistakes during the excavation process. Additionally, following the plan ensures that the excavation process is conducted safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

Creating an excavation plan is crucial in ensuring that archaeological sites are excavated systematically and comprehensively. The plan should be tailored to the specific site being excavated and should contain critical information such as the schedule, site map, and excavation method. Following the excavation plan is essential to ensure that the excavation process is conducted safely and efficiently. By adhering to the excavation plan, archaeologists can record and document all the findings accurately, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the site's history.