Archaeology and Hydropower in the Mountains

Abstract

Hydropower development in mountainous regions both threatens and advances archaeological knowledge. Reservoirs, dams, and associated infrastructure damage cultural heritage through construction and erosion in active regulation zones. Focusing on Scandinavia, especially Norway and Sweden, the article traces the history of "hydropower archaeology" and outlines legal and financial frameworks. Methodologically, the article details adapted field strategies for the short and unpredictable windows the sites are exposed in regulation zones, combining surface survey, test pitting, geophysics, LIDAR, and selected underwater techniques. It further highlights the potential of sediment and peat analyses as archaeological proxies and argues that post-inundation management and dedicated funding are essential to secure endangered mountain heritage.