EHG3794 - Trial trenching and topsoil strip - Balblair, Beauly

A programme of archaeological works was carried out by CFA Archaeology in 2012-13 to mitigate the effects associated with the primary phase of extension at Balblair Quarry. An initial evaluation investigated four previously recorded, upstanding cairns. These all displayed simple stratigraphy and none contained any dating evidence. The evaluation and subsequent monitored strip confirmed the conclusions from previous survey work in the area, that they represented simple clearance cairns and not funerary monuments. A further cairn, a stone spread (a possible surface of anthropogenic origin) and two lengths of C18 plantation boundary were recorded during a subsequent monitored strip. The cairn was a simple clearance cairn. No finds or dating evidence were recovered from any of the excavated contexts. Given the archaeological context the clearance cairns probably relate to prehistoric agricultural activities. The stone spread was possibly a surface. <1>