Technical term – sample trenching survey
In an archaeological sample trenching survey, trenches are dug according to a regular grid. Under an archaeologist’s instructions, the trenches are dug with a backhoe until just above the level where archaeological remnants can be found. From then on, the trenches are carefully excavated further by hand. Finds are collected, traces are registered, measured and further excavated, and everything is meticulously documented and registered.
