Fieldtrip

Thursday 14th September 2017

Sustainability and conservation in an island context

This fieldtrip includes sites and landscapes from prehistory to the present, in the dynamic landscape of Orkney's Atlantic coast. During the day-long trip, we will see some of the well-known and World Heritage Sites from different perspectives, and not so well known sites and visitor attractions. The fieldtrip will consider islands' sustainability in relation to economic development, climate change and community - thinking about sustainability in the past and into the future.

In Birsay we will visit the Earl's Palace and Palace village, thinking about Birsay's place in the Orkney Earldom and examining the role of Birsay in the Magnus 900 events and new Pilgrimage Route. At the Brough of Birsay, the Pictish and Norse sites give a focus for discussion of coastal erosion, conservation and management.

The Barony Mills highlight the role of community again in Birsay's heritage and illustrate sustainability, heritage and economic development past and present.

At Skaill Bay we will examine settlement and coastal change through the millennia with illustration of resilience and adaption as well as abandonment. Sites visited will include World Heritage Site Skara Brae and Verron Broch at the other end of Skaill Bay.

Entrance fees are included in the cost and a packed lunch will be provided and will include local produce from Orkney.

As ever in Orkney, dress for the weather rather than the occasion....so wear sturdy boots, waterproofs and warm clothing.

We will depart at 9.15 from Archaeology Institute Orkney College UHI.