Turbulent waters: An analysis of archaeological standards employed by public and private sector archaeologists working shallow water shipwrecks in Florid

An analysis of archaeological standards employed by public and private sector archaeologists working shallow water shipwrecks in Florida. This final document examines the historical, technological, and legal issues pertaining to the excavation and preservation of artifacts from shallow water shipwreck sites in Florida. Salvage of historical shipwrecks by the private sector results in controversy. Many public archaeologists in Florida suggest that the private sector destroys the historical record. This document undertakes a qualitative analysis of Florida's public and private archaeological standards. Findings include that the archaeological standards of private sector commercial salvors are comparable to the Secretary of the Interior's and the Florida Department of Historical Resource's standards. Further research regarding the implementation of the actual standards is recommended.