What does CMAS mean in ENVIRONMENTAL

Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites (CMAS) is a specialized field that focuses on preserving, protecting and managing archaeological sites for the benefit of society. CMAS practices require a knowledge of historic preservation, public history, cultural resource management and related disciplines.

Projects related to CMAS include those that involve archaeological surveys, excavations, assessments and analyses in order to determine the best ways to preserve the site in question. Other project elements can include repairs, reconstructions and protocols for public interpretation or educational usage.

Research plays a major role in many aspects of CMAS as it helps provide context to the area being studied or managed. Research may include surveying archives or libraries, interviewing stakeholders and villagers or undertaking various forms of documentation like geophysical surveys or landscape studies. This information helps guide decisions about how best to manage the site in question.

Projects related to CMAS often involve a team composed of different professionals who bring varied sets of skills and expertise such as archaeologists, historians, architects, engineers and conservationists. Depending on the scope of work, other specialists such as lawyers or fund-raisers may also weigh in on some projects.

An archaeological survey usually involves using non-invasive techniques such as aerial photography or remote sensing to analyze existing physical evidence at an archaeological site such as buried objects or ruins. The survey may also take into account relevant documents from local archives and interviews with stakeholders living nearby.

An excavation project seeks to unearth artifacts that can be used to interpret history while carefully preserving any associated architecture or remains that may still be present at the site being examined. Excavation also includes any restoration efforts so that any unearthed pieces may be restored back to their original state as much as possible.

Public interpretation means providing suitable access for non-specialist individuals interested in learning more about an archaeological site without having them enter the actual area itself due to potential damage it may incur by doing so. It could involve providing access via virtual tours or curated multi-media materials like videos or brochures instead.

In most countries there exist laws that protect archaeological sites from destruction out of ignorance, negligence or vandalism due for example digging up ancient artifacts without permission from authorities.

To qualify for funding under this category your project should demonstrate how you are making strides towards preservation, protection & sustainable management practices while respecting local community values & culture.