Abstract
We explored site formation processes at 549 shipwrecks in the North and Baltic Seas using multibeam echosounder (MBES) data and environmental/anthropogenic variables. Phase 1 classified the structural integrity of each wreck. Phase 2 used regression modelling to explore correlations between wreck class and environmental variables at individual sites. A best-fit model comprised depth, salinity, fishing intensity, and wreck year. In phase 3 multi-criteria analysis predicted preservation potential across the full model domain. Highest preservation potential is modelled for the southern Baltic Sea and Norwegian Trench, with low potential in shallower areas of the North Sea and off England, Netherlands and Germany.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1-18 |
| Number of pages | 18 |
| Journal | INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NAUTICAL ARCHAEOLOGY |
| Early online date | 18 Mar 2024 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published online - 18 Mar 2024 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
Data Access Statement
Access to the multibeam echosounder data was provided to the authors by Rasmus Normann Andersen, CEO of JD Contractors. The MBES data used within this paper were collected on numerous academic research trips, commercial surveys, and as data exchange with other archives/survey companies. Relevant regulations for collection of data were in line with national and international legislation of the waters where surveys were conducted. Exact positions of wrecks are not given due to issues of commercial interest and national security. Furthermore, data were collected adhering to the principles of the UNESCO convention in as much it was non-destructive and non-invasive and no shipwrecks were disturbed during these surveys. All imagery has been produced by the authors.Keywords
- Shipwreck
- site formation processes
- site environment
- preservation potential
