prøvegrav

Prøvegrav, often translated as trial trench, is a shallow trench excavated to obtain information about subsurface conditions or deposits. The concept is used in archaeology, civil engineering, and environmental investigations. The purpose is to assess stratigraphy, locate features or artifacts, and evaluate soil properties or contamination without carrying out a full-scale excavation.

In archaeology, prøvegraver are positioned to intersect preserved layers and features, producing a clear vertical section that helps determine site significance, dating contexts, and preservation needs. The information gained guides decisions about further excavation strategy and methods. In geotechnical and environmental work, trial trenches provide access to soil samples for bearing capacity estimates, groundwater conditions, and contamination mapping, informing construction planning and risk assessment.

Planning and execution involve obtaining permits and conducting a risk assessment, choosing trench location, width, and depth based on objectives, and establishing documentation standards. Field description typically includes stratigraphic logging, noting soil color, texture, inclusions, and any artifacts or features. Records are kept through drawings and written notes. After the investigation, backfilling and site restoration are performed, and any significant finds may trigger heritage requirements or further research.

Equipment and safety considerations vary with soil conditions. Trenching may be done with manual tools or mechanized equipment, with safety measures such as trench boxes, barriers, and safe access. Local regulations and heritage authorities may impose additional constraints when cultural remains are involved.

Limitations include that a prøvegrav samples only a small portion of the subsurface and may miss features outside the trench. It is a sampling method intended to inform more extensive work rather than replace it.