Title: Drones Transforming Archaeological Mapping: Case Studies and Application on Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Speakers: Kris Reinicke and Alberto Foglia
In this study, archaeologists Kris Reinicke and Alberto Foglia introduce the innovative use of drones for archaeological mapping, building upon historical precedents and technological advancements. Through case studies and practical demonstrations, they showcase the potential of drones in capturing high-resolution imagery of archaeological sites. Case studies at sites like Truckhaven Intaglio, Mason Valley, and Kane Springs demonstrate the efficacy of drone mapping in archaeological research. The importance of thoughtful planning, equipment selection, and adherence to regulatory requirements is emphasized for successful drone missions. Through meticulous image processing techniques and photogrammetry software, the researchers demonstrate the creation of detailed 3D models and orthoimagery, facilitating enhanced site documentation and analysis. Despite encountering challenges such as weather conditions and regulatory complexities, the integration of drones offers unprecedented opportunities for efficient and cost-effective archaeological mapping and preservation efforts. This study contributes to advancing the field of archaeology by harnessing the potential of drones as indispensable tools in site documentation and cultural heritage conservation.
Kris Reinicke (she/her) serves as a Senior Environmental Specialist within the Cultural Resources Team at San Diego Gas & Electric, bringing over 12 years of expertise in archaeology and GIS specialization within the environmental compliance and information technology sectors. Holding a Master of Science (MS) degree in Geographic Information Science from California State University, Long Beach, Kris showcased her proficiency in UAV imagery application in archaeology through her thesis project focused on ground truthing aerial imagery from Easter Island. Prior to her MS, Kris pursued graduate studies in Archaeology at the Centro de Estudios Avanzados de Puerto Rico y el Caribe, with her research centered on the Spanish fortifications of Old San Juan. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies - Anthropology from the University of California, San Diego, and further enriched her academic journey through an exchange program at the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo in Morelia, Mexico. Following her undergraduate studies, Kris spent several years teaching English in Mexico before delving back into her passion for cultural preservation. Beyond her professional pursuits, Kris finds joy in travel, hiking alongside her rescue labrador Cooper, and camping adventures with her partner and friends in Laguna Mountain or the desert.
Alberto is an archaeologist and GIS specialist at PanGIS. His graduate studies involved using GIS to assess the surveillance capabilities of the towers built into Hadrian’s Wall in Northern England. His extensive skill set includes ArcGIS Online Web App development, photogrammetry, and 3D modeling. He has been working with PanGIS’ Remote Sensing team, using his skills to enhance the 3D models derived from sUAS (drone) and fixed-wing flights.