ABSTRACT
The forensic archaeologist should be well prepared and have all the tools and equipment necessary to perform searches and excavations, and should not rely on local law enforcement to provide the necessary tools. Since the search and recovery of human remains is not a common type of crime scene for most law enforcement agencies, it is not surprising that most agencies will not have this specialized equipment. The variety of tools and equipment used by forensic archaeologists during excavation is practically limitless but the following chapter provides descriptions of the basic, most helpful tools commonly used in the forensic recovery of human remains. Figure 2.1 shows an example of a field excavation kit containing the necessary tools. More specialized search equipment is discussed in Chapter 4, and associated equipment needed for the procurement of entomological and botanical evidence is discussed in Chapter 5. Although some of the tools and equipment are purchased through specialty stores (see Table 2.1), the majority are available at local home hardware stores. A checklist of basic field equipment can be found in Appendix 1.
