Meridian’s Survey Manager Mike Nadeau, has been selected by the Utah Valley University (UVU) selection committee to study abroad at the Beit Lehi archaeological site, located 22 miles south of Jerusalem, Israel. Mike, who is finishing up his Bachelor of Science degree in Geomatics from UVU, is among four students selected to work at the site in late May into early June. Mike’s specific strengths in surveying will be utilized on this trip, while the other students have other unique talents such as Engineering Design, Construction Management, and Digital Media.
Watch this Youtube video to learn about the history of this site: Beit Lehi, Israel (Translation: The House of Lehi)
HISTORY: The Beit Lehi site was found in 1961 when Israeli soldiers unearthed a cave that had inscriptions and drawings, including the oldest known Hebrew writing of the word “Jerusalem” dated to approximately 600 B.C. The drawings depicted men who appeared to be fleeing and two ships. Inscriptions included, “I am Jehovah thy Lord. I will accept the cities of Judah and I will redeem Jerusalem” and “Absolve us oh merciful God. Absolve us oh Jehovah”. In 1983, Hebrew University secured permission and funding to excavate the site. By noon of the first day, archaeologists found an ancient village and well-preserved mosaic floor of a Byzantine era chapel. Since that time, “hewn subterranean installations, including columbaria, olive presses, water cisterns, quarries, a stable, and hideaways,” have been discovered along with pottery and other items suggesting that the area had been populated from 600 B.C. until the Mameluke period of 1500 A.D. In 1986, the site was covered to protect it until additional funds could be raised and the conditions were right to continue future excavations. In 1994, the site was re-opened and many groups have visited the site and participated in the excavation.
Mike will now be a part of a group from UVU to participate in the excavation of this historic site using the technology of today. Surveys will include setting up a primary control network GLONASS equipped GPS receivers, OPUS adjustments, and 3D point cloud acquisition using LiDAR (Light Detecting and Ranging). This survey technology of today will bring the history of yesterday to life.
Overall, the Beit Lehi archeology project will be a priceless and engaging experience for Mike. Meridian is excited for his new adventure and wishes him safe travels in this trip of a lifetime.