Volunteers will work with archaeologists on the following four projects:
1. Archaeological Surveys of Woodland
There is at least 1,217 hectares of woodland in the area that has not been surveyed. We are working with landowners and volunteers to identify and record the location and condition of archaeological features.
2. Survey of Bethecar Moor
Bethecar Moor is one of the few extensive areas of open fell in the southern Lake District that has not been subject to archaeological survey. In 2018, we will carry out a Level 1 Survey to record all of the visible archaeological features on the Moor.
3. Conservation and survey of Cunsey Bloomery Forge
A large part of the Cunsey Forge site has been used as a rubbish dump in recent years and is also heavily overgrown with trees. There is concern that the site is deteriorating. The site has now been cleared of rubbish. Archaeologists and volunteers surveyed and excavated the site. It has now been conserved and a new interpretation will tell the story of the findings.
4. Barkhouse Bank bloomery and charcoal pits
We know that there are bloomeries on Barkhouse Bank which date back to the thirteenth century. In 2017, archaeologists and volunteers will survey and excavate the site to find out more about medieval iron smelting.
The information will be used to produce a detailed report on each site. It will be useful to landowners and land managers and enable them to protect, preserve and manage the landscape for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.