What is Underwater Archaeology in Florida?
A. Underwater archaeology anywhere is simply archaeology done underwater. In general, archaeology gathers data from artifacts and remains left behind by people. Archaeologists then try to connect that data to past behaviors. Ultimately, archaeology helps us understand how past peoples and cultures lived. The techniques in underwater archaeology are the same as archaeology on land. In some cases, however, tasks essential to archaeological excavation underwater are greater due to the high cost of obtaining and maintaining equipment and the treatments that waterlogged artifacts require. Once brought to the surface waterlogged artifacts must be immediately taken care of in order to survive in the dry air. This treatment, known as conservation, can sometimes take years to complete and can be very expensive. The products of archaeology on land and underwater are always the same and always exciting. Every site has something new to offer. Just as on land, underwater archaeology is made up of m
