Mike Barwick Much of Scotland's history lies below soil level. There are many ways of making this visible which range from aerial photography to underground exploration through digs and in caves. One way of discovering what is in the soil is to take advantage of natural and artificial disturbances. Heavy rain, surface runoff and seasonal high flows in rivers and tributaries can reveal hidden artefacts. Weather erosion of cliffs, quarry faces and other steep areas will also bring new material to the surface.
Farmers regularly disturb the soil surface in their programme of cultivation.
Ploughing in particular regularly brings new material to the surface and this may contain previously buried historic objects. The method of systematically searching the surface of a field is known as field walking. Always, get the owners permission and don't forget there may be a tenant who must also be asked. Research the local history to give ideas of what may be found. Look at examples in local museums to get visual clues.