In situ conservation surveys of iron shipwrecks in Chuuk Lagoon and the impact of human intervention

Abstract

Regular site inspections are an integral part of the overall management strategy for a submerged site. The primary focus of an on-site corrosion survey is to collect as much pertinent information as possible to assist in ascertaining the extent of deterioration and structural integrity of a site. Further inspections are then required at regular intervals so any changes in the integrity of the site are noted by direct comparison with earlier surveys. The more surveys carried out, the better, as they will provide more information regarding the rate of deterioration and the inherent stability of a site, which will assist in recognising which sites are a priority for future implementation of appropriate in-situ conservation management strategies. Hence, as an example, over a five-year period, a series of in situ conservation surveys were performed on a selected number of World War II Japanese wrecks located in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon, in the Federated States of Micronesia. During World War II, the Japanese established their principal military naval base at Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon but in February 1944, American forces attacked the base and consequently, many of their ships were sunk and a number of aircraft were lost in the lagoon. These wreck sites have become very popular dive sites and therefore, Chuuk Lagoon has become one of the major recreational dive destinations in the world. As unsustainable fishing practices have become more prevalent in this area and with the downturn in the tourism industry due to the global economic crisis, it is very important to monitor the archaeological, biological and structural integrity of the wrecks in Chuuk Lagoon, so early intervention may prevent loss of these internationally significant underwater cultural and natural heritage sites, which are intrinsically linked to the economic future of the local Chuukese people.

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