Dating springlines from hydrogeological and archaeological evidence

Abstract The relationship between prehistoric populations and water is often poorly understood, partly as a function of historical reliance on qualitative fragmentary datasets in many regions. Here, we adopt quantitative approach to analyze specific aspect the for Cotswold Hills, southwest UK; an area documented hydrogeological change extensive Neolithic (ca. 5.5 ka) activity. Using database all known monuments, interrogate significance their habitation. By marshaling large dataset recent 100 years) changes discharge elevation 259 springs, establish striking negative present-day spring annual change. We then formulate inverse problem predict elevations times. Spring are predicted be closer to, higher than, Neolithic-dated sites relative location modern springs. These results emphasize utilitarian and/or reverential link populations. Our reconciling markedly different timescales can easily adapted other While groundwater had behaved reasonably predictably since times, human activity (and will continue be) far more significant influencing behavior.