SHA 2026 Conference on Historical and Underwater Archaeology

Session Abstract

Traditional methods for identifying archaeological sites or subsurface cultural resources are often invasive and require excavation. However, there are often situations and cultural contexts where excavation is inappropriate or not the preferred course of action. Increasingly, alternatives such as geophysical prospection and archaeological human remains detection are being utilized in culturally sensitive situations. We invite panelists to discuss how they utilize non-invasive alternatives for archaeological survey and site evaluation. We seek to have a conversation about best practices, case studies, and standards for non-invasive techniques in archaeology.

Non-Invasive Methods for Identifying Subsurface Resources: Culturally Sensitive & Collaborative Approaches

Organizer(s): Sarah L. Surface-Evans (Michigan State Historic Preservation Office, United States of America), E. Duane Quates (Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Chair(s): Sarah L. Surface-Evans (Michigan State Historic Preservation Office, United States of America), E. Duane Quates (Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Panelist(s): E. Duane Quates (Natural Resources Conservation Service), P. Monte Lawton (Heartsong Archaeology), Eric T. Hubbard (Dept. of Anthropology, University of Pennsylvania), Christopher G. LaMack (Penn Museum Center for the Analysis of Archaeological Materials / University of Pennsylvania Department of Anthropology), Jennifer Jordan Hall (KYK9 Search and Reunite), Kaila Akina (Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, Tribal Historic Preservation Office), Sarah L. Surface-Evans (Michigan State Historic Preservation Office, United States of America)

Traditional methods for identifying archaeological sites or subsurface cultural resources are often invasive and require excavation. However, there are often situations and cultural contexts where excavation is inappropriate or not the preferred course of action. Increasingly, alternatives such as geophysical prospection and archaeological human remains detection are being utilized in culturally sensitive situations. We invite panelists to discuss how they utilize non-invasive alternatives for archaeological survey and site evaluation. We seek to have a conversation about best practices, case studies, and standards for non-invasive techniques in archaeology.

Conference Agenda