Early‑Stage Surface Evaluation
Preliminary Field Reconnaissance (PFR)
A targeted site visit to check surface conditions and potential heritage risk before work begins.
Recommended for project teams and regulators at early planning stages.
Preliminary Field Reconnaissance (PFR) is a fast, small scale version of an Archaeological Overview Assessment (AOA). Usually done for smaller land areas such as single family dwelling lots, acreages, commercial properties. A PFR typically includes a background check of known archaeological sites within the vicinity and a brief site visit.
The goal of a PFR is the same for an AOA, to estimate the potential for archaeological sites.