I am about to begin a cave restoration project of a 300 foot-long passage. The passage was used for cave tours in the 1920's and contains much rotting wood and rusty metal that was formerly part of the tour trail. In some cases the metal grating used for traction has been calcified into flowstone. We know of some historic newspaper, and expect to find more interesting artifacts as the project progresses.
All of this must be removed, but historic preservation rules dictate that all material be catalogued as to location and context. Therefore, an accurate survey and inventory is in order.
Has anyone been involved in a project like this before? I would be interested to know what methodology you used. I have decided to resurvey the passage with survey points no more than 10 feet apart. This will allow me to locate each historic object to a nearby station. Would you suggest surveying a shot to each object, or laying out a grid such as used in an archaeological dig? The passage is nowhere more than 20 ft. wide.
Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks,