Advanced Course on GIS Application in the Management of Underwater Archaeology

The original MACHU project took place in Europe from 2006 until 2009 and its main objective was to find a new and better way for management of our underwater, mutual cultural heritage. In this project, the MACHU GIS system was developed as a tool to exchange and explore Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH) information.

As a GIS (Geographic Information System), MACHU GIS offers the possibility to combine heritage information with other specific area related subjects, such as site research data, environmental data, legislative information and historic maps. In 2010, an advanced course on GIS was organized at the National Marine Museum in Chantaburi in Thailand, to promote the use of GIS in Asia.

'''How does GIS work?'''

MACHU GIS contains a number of standard map layers (web map services) provided by MACHU partners and third parties. Users can extend these map layers with new map layers for personal use.

Through the (sensitive) nature of the information (in particular the exact positions of sites), this application is only available for the scientific community and professional maritime stakeholders. Users have to register themselves first in order to obtain access. The archaeology layer is based on information from the MoSS master management plan. A management plan could be seen as a collection of information-elements that applies to an archaeological object (or site).

Scientists can access the underlying databases, combine information according to their own needs, and add new layers as needed. Policymakers and underwater cultural heritage managers can quickly gain an impression of the pressure on the exploitation of the seabed. The GIS immediately shows the wealth of cultural resources already found (the known resource),but in addition expected resources can be also be predicted (the unknown resource). The MACHU GIS system reveals both the threat to and opportunities for heritage underwater protection at a single glance

MACHU GIS has been used as an example and point of departure for the discussions around the development of an underwater GIS in Asia. With a similar framework, similar formats, and database structure, it might be possible in the future to exchange data not only between Asian countries but also between Asia and Europe. This would again promote easy access to data for coastal as well as flag states. GIS is also a part of the course at the UNESCO field school for Underwater Cultural Heritage.

The Advanced Training Course on the application of Geographic Information Systems in the management of underwater cultural heritage was organized from 20 to 29 September 2010. The course enabled regional trainees to understand the fundamentals of GIS, learn techniques using ArcGIS software, learn how to establish a GIS system and develop GIS applications in managing underwater archaeology. It helped develop necessary skills in using databases and GIS procedures including data entry, manipulation, editing, analysis and mapping.

OBJECTIVES
To make the GIS technology, which was developed in the European Machu project, applicable in South-East Asia.

RESULTS
Regional trainees can now work with the GIS program in Asia: they can use ArcGIS software, learn how to establish a GIS system and develop GIS applications in managing underwater archaeology.