ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES FROM KHOR KHARFOT, DHOFAR, OMAN

During field excavations in February 2016, numerous stratigraphic sediment samples were collected. Three of these were selected for AMS radiocarbon analysis to include dates on both shell and organics in the form of humates (soil organic matter or SOM) or charcoal, if any could be recovered. Sufficient quantities of sediments were collected from each location to allow pollen and/or phytolith analysis, either as part of the first batch of samples examined or for examination at a later date. In addition, pieces of charcoal were collected from an area best described as a slanted flat rock overlooking the Sanctuary specifically for AMS radiocarbon dating. Samples were selected for pollen analysis to assess preservation and the stratigraphic pollen record to provide environmental information and for future planning. The first draft of this report presents and interprets the first three pairs of AMS radiocarbon dates and individual dates on charcoal. Assessment of pollen recovery and preservation, but not final pollen results in the form of a diagram nor interpretations of the stratigraphic pollen record, is made. Identification of pollen in the stratigraphic samples continues.