Exploring Innovative Tech in Salvage Archaeology: Highlights from the National Conference on Dam Projects

On Saturday, Tehran hosted an insightful national conference focusing on the integration of modern science and technology in salvage archaeology, particularly for significant water and energy infrastructure projects. This event, aptly titled “Prospects for Applying Modern Sciences and Technologies in Salvage Archaeological Excavations of Water and Energy Infrastructure Projects,” emphasized the critical role of innovative techniques in preserving cultural heritage in the face of development.

The conference took place at the headquarters of the Iran Water and Power Resources Development Company and featured a distinguished lineup of officials and experts. Notable speakers included:

• Mohammad Rahbari, advisor to the company’s CEO
• Ebrahim Zarei, head of the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and Tourism
• Masoumeh Mosalla, head of the Iranian Center for Archaeological Research
• Farzad Mafi and Mohammadreza Nemati, scientific secretaries of the conference

During the opening session, experts shared insights into how cutting-edge technologies are being utilized in salvage archaeology to safeguard cultural sites threatened by large-scale development projects. A key presentation was delivered by Fereidoun Biglari, head of the Paleolithic Department at the National Museum of Iran, alongside Sonia Shidrang, a faculty member at Shahid Beheshti University. They provided a comprehensive overview of recent archaeological work at the Darian Dam in Hawraman, detailing surveys and excavations conducted from late 2015 to the end of 2016.

Throughout their presentation, they reported the identification of over 70 archaeological sites within the Darian Dam reservoir area, including:

• Caves
• Rock shelters
• Open-air sites
• Cemeteries
• Rock art
• Fortifications

The material culture discovered at these sites spanned from the Middle Paleolithic to the late Islamic periods. Notably, five archaeological teams were mobilized to excavate 16 major sites before the reservoir was filled, showcasing the concerted efforts made to document and preserve these significant locations.

Furthermore, the conference underscored the importance of digital documentation in archaeological practices, particularly for sites at risk of flooding. The use of photogrammetry and laser scanning was emphasized as essential tools for creating accurate 3D models of vulnerable locations. An exemplary case discussed was the Darai Rock Shelter, where a Middle Paleolithic hearth was meticulously recorded through laser scanning, preserving its spatial characteristics for future research.

In addition to digital documentation techniques, experts also explored engineering measures designed to protect archaeological sites in situ. For instance, at the Kenacheh Cave—which contains deep stratified deposits from both the Upper Paleolithic and Epipaleolithic periods—archaeologists implemented a multilayer protective system composed of geotextile, sand, gravel, and gabions. This system was crucial in shielding the sediments from water pressure and erosion, ensuring the integrity of these invaluable historical deposits.

The conference also delved into several key provisions aimed at enhancing the field of salvage archaeology, including:

• Creating national standards for digital documentation
• Establishing a unified database for salvage archaeology projects
• Expanding training in digital and engineering preservation methods

Moreover, discussions took place regarding the potential of geophysical methods for salvage excavations, the innovative use of artificial intelligence in archaeological analysis, and the application of remote sensing technologies to identify the boundaries of ancient sites. The conference concluded with a summary of the presentations and the reading of a final statement that encapsulated the day’s discussions and future directions for the field.

This pivotal conference highlighted the intersection of modern technology and archaeology, showcasing how contemporary methods can play a vital role in preserving our cultural heritage amid the challenges presented by development and modernization.