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 Archaeology and Bogland - Code of PracticeWhat to expect? Thousands of archaeological sites and objects survive within and under our bogs. The most common type of site which will be encountered is the trackway, or togher, which can be made of planks, roundwoods, brushwood, gravel or flagstones. Brushwood platforms, rows of wooden posts and traces of timber huts may also be discovered. Ancient cooking places (fulachta fiadha) are often found close to bog margins, and can be recognised by the presence of large quantities of burnt stone. Sites are also found on the mineral soil underneath the peat, particularly under the blanket peats in western regions. These include stone banks, mounds, megalithic tombs, standing stones, and stone circles and rows. Many objects have either been lost or deposited in our bogs over the centuries. These include tools, implements and weapons made from wood, stone or metal; ornaments made from bronze or even gold; wooden vessels, which sometimes contain bog butter; wooden deer traps and wheels and items of clothing made from leather or textile. Occasionally human bodies, or parts of bodies, as well as animal remains are found preserved in the peat. All objects, sites or monuments, no matter how fragmentary, are important elements of our heritage. What to do? Check whether there are any known archaeological sites in your area. Be vigilant at all times - objects or traces of structures can be found on the field surfaces, in the drain faces and on the bog margins. If an object is found, leave it in place if it is safe to do so, note its position and immediately contact your Archaeological Liaison Officer who will assess the situation and contact the authorities. If the object is already dislodged or is in imminent danger, remove it carefully, mark its find spot and report it immediately to your Archaeological Liaison Officer. Objects made of wood, leather or textile which are removed from peat should be kept in conditions similar to those in which they are found. This can be done by packing them in peat or, if waterlogged, placing them in a basin of water. Resist the temptation to clean the object. If timbers or other materials, such as gravel or stones, which could be part of a man-made structure are noted on the bog, mark the location and report it immediately to your Archaeological Liaison Officer. If you suspect the find is of archaeological importance, resist the temptation to expose it any further as this could result in damage to the structure. Report anything that looks unnatural in the bog - your Archaeological Liaison Officer will decide whether it should be referred to the appropriate authorities. Remember! Our archaeological heritage is a finite, non-renewable resource. Once a site is destroyed, its information is lost forever and we have lost the chance to understand a little more about our past, where we have come from and perhaps the opportunity to learn for the future. Downlaod the "Under Your Feet" Poster |
