Services Offered.
Burial Monitoring
We provide state approved archaeologists for projects that the Wisconsin Historical Society designate as requiring a burial monitor under Wis Stats. § 157.70(i) and HS 2.04(6). Our specialists are experienced at differentiating human vs. non-human animal skeletal elements and recognizing archaeological burials. They also have a track record of working with utility installation teams, environmental testing engineers, excavators, and construction crews, to seamlessly provide monitoring in a way that does not needlessly obstruct the work of these professionals.
Concrete Scanning
Concrete scanning with GPR technology can allow for the mapping of rebar mesh, locating post-tension cables, and identification of utilities. Finding these potentially hazardous structures prior to drilling or cutting into concrete promotes worker safety, protects the existing concrete structure, and can help avoid expensive damage to utilities.
Ground Penetrating Radar
Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a non-destructive remote sensing method that allows for the detection of buried objects. GPR units transmit electromagnetic pulses in the microwave band of the radio spectrum into the ground. When the radar pulses contact a buried object, the pulses can be reflected back to the surface. The GPR unit’s antenna then records the returned signals.
Our team of experts are experienced in the use of GPR technology and can deploy GPR units for a variety of purposes, including archaeological survey, utility identification, concrete scanning, and the location of unmarked burials.
Utility Locating
We use GPR technology to locate subsurface utilities. Our results can be provided in real-time, as well as in detailed illustrated reports. Independently locating utilities can facilitate safe construction work and even save money in the long-term as unexpectedly striking a utility can cost tens of thousands of dollars in repair costs.
Phase I Archaeological Survey
We have extensive experience in conducting Phase I archaeological surveys that are designed to identify archaeological sites within a designated project area. Like other firms, we rely on pedestrian surveys and test pit excavation in our methodology. However, we also employ ground penetrating radar (GPR) technology to locate buried artifacts, features, and archaeological deposits. Deploying GPR units during archaeological Phase I survey allows for the most thorough investigation possible, and without extending project timelines.
Phase II Archaeological Investigations
Our specialists can conduct the extensive background, laboratory, and field research needed to evaluate the significance of existing archaeological sites and their potential eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. This work includes the excavation of test pits and larger units, establishes site boundaries, and informs future mitigation planning.
Phase III Archaeological Investigations & Mitigation
Our team of archaeologists are able to conduct large scale Phase III excavations, the goal of which is to collect significant amounts of archaeological data prior to a site being impacted by a development project. This allows for the recovery of as much archaeological information as possible before it would otherwise be destroyed.
Skeletal Analysis
For projects involving burial excavation, the state may require skeletal analysis. Our team includes Qualified Skeletal Analysts, who can perform this work and have met Wisconsin Historical Society requirements under Wis Stats. § 157.70(i) and HS 2.04(6). All skeletal analyses are conducted in a manner that respects the dignity of the dead and honors the wishes of their living descendants.