Field Analysis:Why

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Why record soil properties?
A successful recording scheme needs to provide not only a consistent site record, but also record those soil properties, which for a small time investment, can add most to the field and post-excavation interpretation of this particular set of deposits. A basic set of soil properties (e.g. colour, texture, and consistency) are routinely recorded on archaeological excavations, but more detailed recording of soil properties is usually left to specialists. However, in many cases it is field archaeologists, with a small amount of training, who are best placed to carry out more detailed recording as they are permanently on-site. If intelligently done these descriptions (supported by photographs and drawings) can be invaluable to specialists who are often only on site for a very short space of time.

The following pages introduce the range of soil and sedimentary properties that may be recorded and outline when and how each property can add value to the recording process. Information on how to record soil and sediment properties can be found here.

To find out more about the benefits of recording soil and sediment properties choose from the list below, or click on the Forward button at the bottom of the page to be taken through the tutorial.
 * Landscape information
 * Colour
 * Composition
 * Texture
 * Stoniness
 * Anthropogenic inclusions and artefacts
 * Soil structure and consistence
 * Porosity and roots
 * Soil features
 * Sedimentary and Secondary features
 * Context boundaries

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