Application of Parametric Sub-Bottom Profilers for Responsible in Situ Management of Underwater Shallow-Buried Archaeological Materials

Abstract

The application potential of parametric sub-bottom profilers (SBPs) to in situ management of underwater archaeological sites at risk from degradational loss of shallow-buried materials is presented. This approach is based on the process-driven in situ preservation and research frameworks advocated by the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage and provides a basis for greater uptake by the archaeological community. Results from research at a purposely prepared sub-seabed site and on the adjoining James Matthews (1841) wreck site in Western Australia demonstrate how noninvasive SBP-derived data support responsible management of underwater cultural heritage (UCH) sites by: (1) identifying and/or confirming the presence of sub-seabed UCH material, (2) identifying the potential level of risk of further material loss from ongoing degradation, (3) providing key information with which to make a sound in situ management or site-research plan for the sub-seabed material, and (4) delivering monitoring feedback regarding the success of in situ management actions.