Shipwreck Tagging Archaeological Management Program (STAMP): A Model for Coastal Heritage Management Based on Community Engagement and Citizen Science

Abstract

The Florida Public Archaeological Network began the Shipwreck Tagging Archaeological Management Program (STAMP) in 2019 and utilizes citizen scientists to assist archaeologists in tracking the movement and degradation of beached/coastal shipwreck sites and disarticulated timbers. Historically Florida’s coastal regions have been some of the most treacherous navigable waterways for mariners due to high wave turbidity, oceanic currents, and meteorological phenomena. As such, thousands of ships have ultimately met their demise along Florida coasts. The program, partnering with the National Park Service at Gulf Islands National Seashore, has collected data in the continued enhancement of public archaeological programs.