31st May 2005, 02:39 PM
Quote:quote:Originally posted by mercenary
After reading some of the views on this thread I'm very very confused as to what curators actually expect, and I'm convinced it varies massively region to region. Perhaps you should compare notes.[?]
You are probably right that things vary from region to region, as I've heard this too - with the northern (English) curators having an apparently much harder time justifying works than in the south, where conversely, development pressure is supposed to be greater.
Personally, I hate watching briefs. I only ask for them following evaluation or assessment on areas where I'm fairly sure that there won't be anything of real significance (like Mr. BAJR Hosty), I always make sure there are big provisions within WSIs for contingency works if anything is found, and it is specified that the archaeologists should be on site while the excavations are taking place. I'd almost never ask for one on an un-evaluated site either, although I'm more amenable to strip map & record exercises in this situation - albeit again with contingencies in the WSI. Whatever the situation, it should be clear that at this stage, the development works are under archaeological control - not the other way around - then if I happen to be away most urgent situations are covered.
It's disappointing how many consultants and sometimes units still recommend WB's, when we all know they are largely awful. It may be true that they don't want the site personnel to talk directly to the curator too - I certainly think this has been the case on some sites in my area. Doesn't stop you or your supervisor/manager having the curator's phone no. in your pocket and giving him a call off the record if you want him to see something important. I often call in unannounced at sites (where I've not heard of problems I should add) just because I'm in the area on other visits, or passing by on the way back to the office. Local Society members are good at making a fuss too, so why not make some local contacts and quietly suggest they visit the site if you want to raise issues about stuff getting trashed. This has worked for me in the past. All of us working together to make sure archaeology is treated properly is the key.