Phase 1: The case for 10,000-year-old agriculture at Kuk

Evidence of past human activities sealed by grey clay was first discovered during stratigraphic recording of plantation drains at Kuk in 1974. Excavations occurred at the site in subsequent years (197577 and 1998) to determine more fully the character of the finds (Fig. 11.1). The archaeological remains, which date to 10,000 years ago, are unique to Kuk and have two major components: a palaeochannel (a prehistoric channel) and a palaeosurface (an old buried land surface). These components are discussed below and interpreted with respect to associated land usage and whether they represent prehistoric agricultural practices.