Evaluating consumer grade UAVs and their potential applications and implications in Ontario consulting archaeology

Abstract

Archaeological investigation is an inherently destructive process that threatens permanent data loss if archaeological sites are inadequately recorded. While archaeologists strive to develop innovative methods to ensure adequate data capture, they are often inhibited by funding and training in new methodologies. Limited funding is exacerbated in a consulting archaeology framework in Ontario where budgets are competitively determined and offer little flexibility or incentive to exceed the minimum standards enforced by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS). This thesis critically examines consumer-grade unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as a potential site recording and prospecting tool. Through four case studies, the UAVs efficacy is evaluated and UAV-derived data products are outlined to determine whether the aerial platform is a suitable technological innovation that increases data capture while remaining affordable for Ontario consultant archaeologists.