A manual designed to give archaeologists the necessary background knowledge in environmental science required to excavate and analyze archaeological sites by rivers and on floodplains. The first part covers the techniques for studying alluvial environments, while the second reviews the literature on the archaeology of alluvial environments and presents new information on alluviation and site formation in both the British Isles and Mediterranean. A major theme running through the book is the interaction between climatic and cultural forces and the transformation of riverine environments. Bringing together information on the evolution and exploitation of floodplain and river landscapes, the work draws on examples from Britain, Europe, North America and Australasia.