Archaeological Assessment HKZ Phase III based on geotechnical results

The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) has assigned Periplus Archeomare B.V. to assess the presence of prehistoric remains in Site IV of the Wind Farm Zone Hollandse Kust (zuid). Prior to this assessment an archaeological desk study (phase I) and analysis of geophysical data (phase II) has been carried out. Analysis of seismic data during phase II has revealed the presence of the Brown Bank Member in the area. Based on these seismic data zones have been mapped which could contain Middle Paleolithic remains. The valuable information which has come forward from this investigation opens up the way to use this geochronological information to broaden our knowledge of the successive Pleistocene landscapes in the North Sea area and correlate this information with the stratigraphic sequences found in basins onshore. The collected data and analysis provide useful results, not only from an archaeological point of view, but also for palaeo-climatic research. Continuing from this point onward with geo-archaeological research is considered to be outside framework of the development of the Hollandse Kust (zuid) Wind Farm Zone. The current research can be considered incentive for future research. If future developments are planned it is advised to incorporate archaeological research of borehole samples in the package of research activities. Those samples have to be intact so that the character of shells, peat layers, layer boundaries and indications of for instance soil formation can be recognized and sample intervals can be identified. Sampling shall be carried out according to a Program of Requirements which is approved by authorities.