Dalchork Forest, Dalchork

NC 5870 1560 (centred on) A walkover survey was undertaken November 2010–January 2011 across 24 areas in N and S Dalchork Forest. The work aimed to enhance and update the existing record of sites, and provide data that will assist with future forestry management strategies. Many areas of Dalchork Forest have been previously surveyed by the OS (1963 and 1976), by Roger Mercer and Edinburgh University (1978–80) and by the RCAHMS (1989). The current survey planned to identify and record the location and condition of known sites and to record newly identified sites, utilising and updating the existing FCS Heritage Module records in the field. The survey targeted areas which had been identified as having very high archaeological potential.

The work showed the impact of natural degradation and afforestation on the condition of the sites during the past 50 years. It also identified new sites and documented the disappearance of previously recorded sites. The Heritage Module was found to be a useful tool to have in the field. It assists the FCS by providing an efficient and accurate way to update the present sites and monuments records, whilst the user can input data and create recommended buffer zones, which will assist with future management.

Archive: RCAHMS (intended). Report: Highland HER

Funder: Forestry Commission Scotland

ross and Cromarty Archaeological Services, 2011