About the Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS)
The information on this page is divided into two sections, starting with
a formal introduction. Following this is a brief introduction to NAS
activities - an invitation to you to find out more about underwater
archaeology.
Jump to: NAS activities
Legal and constitutional background
The NAS is dedicated to advancing education
in nautical archaeology at all levels; to improving techniques in excavating,
conservation and reporting; and to encouraging the participation of members
of the public at all stages.
The Nautical Archaeology
Society is a non-government organisation formed to further
interest in our underwater cultural heritage. We are a registered
charity based in the United Kingdom, but with strong links to
sister organisations around the world. (The
Charity Commission for England and Wales Reg.
No. 264209.)
We aim to preserve our archaeological
heritage in the marine environment, by acting as a focus for coastal
and marine archaeology. To do this we need to involve everyone - divers
and non-divers, scientists, historians and anyone with an interest. Our
underwater heritage is not renewable, and is at constant threat from
natural and human agencies.
Preserving a record of the past is
vital, and it is important that this record is as accurate as possible. To
achieve this we aim to improve archaeological techniques and encourage
publication and research. We publish a members' newsletter of events
(ISSN 0602-6098), and a learned journal,
The International Journal of Nautical Archaeology
(ISSN 1057-2414), which welcomes substantive
contributions to the art from around the world.
Through these means the NAS aims to
reveal our underwater heritage, allowing everyone to benefit from this
unique and fascinating resource.
If you would like to know more, a brief
overview of the society is given below. This offers you links to activities,
educational and training opportunities and further information:
Articles
of Association of The Nautical Archaeology Society
NAS activities
The International Journal of Nautical Archaeology was founded in 1972.
It is published biannually for the Nautical Archaeology Society by
Blackwell Publishing Ltd. to further research in all aspects of
nautical archaeology and to ensure the publication of results.
The Society also produces a newsletter 'Nautical Archaeology' which is
free to members.
Contents listings for the IJNA are available online, a full text
online service is available to members - you must login to view this.
About the IJNA & contents
You can get also involved with the search for evidence of past maritime
activities. The simplest way to do this is to record what you've seen on
dives or visits to sites of maritime activity. If you are in the UK, your
observations can be preserved and acted upon through our 'WreckMap Britain'
project, or if you are a non-diver, or someone interested in Foreshore or
Landscape Archaeology, follow the link below to learn how you can 'Dive into
History' without getting wet!
WreckMap Britain 
Diving Into History 
If you would like to get more out
of a site, we can offer training in a range of survey and investigation
techniques. With all of our training courses the emphasis is on marrying
practical experience with a firm understanding of the cultural and
archaeological issues.
NAS training
Projects, advanced courses and field
schools offer further opportunities to refine your skills and put
them to the test in real situations. They also introduce you to other
NAS members and tutors, who are drawn from a wide range of backgrounds
through a common interest in underwater archaeology. Projects have an
important role in building a strong social network that encompasses
both professional and amateur underwater archaeologists and others
interested in the field.
Projects
Whether you're new to the subject, or have had professional or private
interests in the area for many years, the NAS offers you
involvement based on the time you have available and the level of your
interest. This is your society!
Membership
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