Caithness contains some of the best-preserved prehistoric and historic landscapes in Scotland. One of the best examples can be found around the area of Yarrows and Warehouse where a spectacular array of monuments can be seen including Neolithic chambered tombs, stone settings, Iron Age brochs and a range of other roundhouses and enclosures. The remains of later crofts and farmsteads also make up a substantial component of the landscape we can see today. Despite some work in the past there has never been an accurate, modern survey of this important area. This is a major gap in our understanding of the archaeology of mainland Scotland.

The Caithness Archaeological Trust (CAT) is delighted to announce that the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS), together with local people, have been undertaking a new and ambitious programme of fieldwork in this area.

RCAHMS was established by Royal Warrant in 1908 and is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Architecture Policy Unit, part of the Tourism, Culture and Sport Group of the Scottish Executive Education Department. Its main objectives are to record and interpret the sites, monuments and buildings of Scotland's past, to promote a greater appreciation of their value (www.rcahms.gov.uk), and to present them more directly by selective publications and exhibitions. RCAHMS have undertaken numerous survey programmes throughout Scotland to an exemplary standard, often in partnerships with allied bodies and local communities.

The RCAHMS have been accurately recording every known monument within the Yarrows and Warehouse area, be it a Neolithic stone row or a 19th century stone wall and will also be searching for unrecorded sites. The RCAHMS have also undertaken detailed survey and illustration of selected monuments in the area as well as new programmes of aerial photography. Combined, the work will produce an accurate record of every manmade monument and provide the essential baseline for our understandings of the use of the area for over 6000 years.

Following the fieldwork a key component of the project will be lectures, workshops and school visits run by CAT. These aim to feedback to the community any new information we find or discoveries and continue to inform everyone about our cultural and natural heritage. In particular, school visits will actively encourage the younger members of the community to become involved in their archaeology.

This project is a major development for the Caithness community. CAT was set up by local people to increase people's recognition and enjoyment of Caithness archaeology. These aims can only be achieved if we have adequate understanding of our rich heritage. To this end, CAT is delighted that RCAHMS have agreed to undertake this exciting programme of work. This ambitious survey will help promote our rich archaeological heritage both locally and internationally.

CAT is extremely grateful to the Community Economic Development Programme for support in this project.