Coring

Direct-push cores allow rapid collection of the stratigraphic record along the Area of Potential Effect. Up to 30 cores collected at 100 to 200 m intervals can cover 3-4 miles per day. However, there is additional costs incurred to log, interpret and analyze the core.

Coring programs are effective at recording buried soils. Buried occupation surfaces can be identified through micrartifact analyses of soil samples from the cores. However, additonal deep testing of these horizons is often required to determine eligibility of archaeology sites identified by the coring program.

In sensitive areas where heavy machinery is not allowed, cores can be collected with an AMS soil probe and hammer with minimal disturbance.