Spatial Technology and Archaeology in Gates of the Arctic NP

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Spatial Technology and Archaeology in Gates of
the Arctic NPP

• R. Jay Flaming
• Archaeologist, National Park Service
• University of Alaska Fairbanks
• jay_flaming_at_nps.gov

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Spatial Technology and Archaeology in Gates of
the Arctic NPP
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Archaeology and Space
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archaeology is naturally spatial

• artifact data is concrete
• we interpret this modern reality
• recreations are fuzzy

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spatial data collection is an ethical issue

• responsible use of funds
• archaeology is destructive
• collect for the future

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archaeology has specific limitations

• wilderness operations
• autonomous collection
• staff have multiple roles

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Alatna River Project
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Alatna River Project
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Alatna River Project
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Alatna River Project
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Alatna River Project
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inventory/survey

• GIS planning
• GPS recording

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subsurface testing

• test pits
• limited excavation

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Limited excavation
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Limited excavation
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Limited Excavation
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update known sites

• sites exist in various databases
• location data quality varies

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Hungry Fox Project
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Hungry Fox Project
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Hungry Fox Project
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Hungry Fox Project
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Total station

• excavation recording
• topography

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Total station
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Total station
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Total station
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Trimble GeoXT

• record datums
• topography

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GeoXT Topography
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GeoXT Topography
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3d GeoXT map
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Publishing
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Current projects
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random sampling

• Killik-Nigu stratified sample
• analyzing results with geostatistics

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field work 2005

• minimized survey crew field kit
• focus on digital camera
• profile views
• plan views
• aerial images
• duplicate notebook elements
• allow for hotlinked maps

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analysis projects

• re-create Hungry Fox blocks

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databases

• digitize old surveys
• integration with ASMIS and ERI

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Hardware Wish List

• power management
• interchangeable batteries
• 12volt charging
• accessories
• standard cords
• wireless
• backup
• removeable storage
• ability to store raw data
• rugged grit and water as well as shock

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The End

• Thanks to Jeff Rasic, Joel Cusick, Greg Daniels,
  the National Park Service, and my wife Jennie