ALS-Based Detection of Past Human Activities in the Białowieża Forest—New Evidence of Unknown Remains of Past Agricultural Systems

A groundbreaking study reveals that past human agricultural activities in the Białowieża Forest (BF) were significantly more prevalent than previously believed. Using Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) technology combined with traditional archaeological field assessments, researchers identified over 300 km of potential field boundaries and plough headlands, dating from the pre-Roman Period to the 13th century AD. These findings challenge long-standing assumptions about the extent of human influence on this unique ecosystem. The study not only provides new evidence for the cultural heritage of the BF but also establishes a scientific approach for improved identification of archaeological resources in forest areas. This research has practical applications, including an updated geodatabase to support monument protection and local conservation efforts, while also advancing the global concept of integrating cultural heritage inventories into protected areas.

Stereńczak, K., Zapłata, R., Wójcik, J., Kraszewski, B., Mielcarek, M., Mitelsztedt, K., Białczak, M., Krok, G., Kuberski, Ł., Markiewicz, A., Modzelewska, A., Parkitna, K., Piasecka, Ż., Pilch, K., Rzeczycki, K., Sadkowski, R., Wietecha, M., Rysiak, P., von Gadow, K., & Cieszewski, C. J. (2020). ALS-Based Detection of Past Human Activities in the Białowieża Forest—New Evidence of Unknown Remains of Past Agricultural Systems. Remote Sensing, 12(16), 2657. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs12162657