Geophysical Survey at Nettleham, Lincoln

This geophysical survey was completed using a Sensys FMG650/3 system. Readings were recorded at a resolution of 0.01 nT and data collected with a traverse interval of 1 m and a sample interval of between 0.16 - 0.25 m. Data was collected by traversing the survey area in 4 m (Sensys FGM650/3) increments using a hand-pushed non-magnetic cart system to achieve the best possible results. Cura Terrae were instructed by WSP UK Ltd to undertake an archaeological geophysical survey at of land southwest of Nettleham, Lincolnshire. The survey produced good results and confirmed the presence of anomalies that have been tentatively identified as being of possible archaeological origin. A sinuous, weakly positive curvilinear response traverses the area from north to south. While this anomaly is likely to be an indication of natural changes in the underlying deposits, it could indicate a feature which, based on its morphology, is tentatively interpreted as a possible palaeochannel. In addition, several discrete, positive circular anomalies are noted which may indicate pit-like features. However, a natural origin can also not be ruled out for these anomalies. Evidence of historic agricultural activity is noted across the survey area which may indicate ridge and furrow cultivation. The remaining anomalies are modern in origin and relate to modern agricultural activity caused by ploughing, a land drain, as well as ferrous disturbance along the survey boundaries caused by peripheral metal fencing and extant objects beyond the survey extent. Ferrous "spikes" are also noted throughout likely to be caused by the presence of modern waste and debris within the topsoil.