Prehistoric populations may be studied as both diachronic and synchronic phenomena. The most common methods used for calculating prehistoric populations are ethnography, the number of households, and the volume of rubbish. The paper uses the last two methods for data collected from the northwest coast of Tasmania. In the study of coastal hunters and gatherers, the volume of rubbish method is more reliable. The rubbish consisted of middens (mainly bone and shells) and the average volume of midden per quadrant is calculated from the survey results. The survey method is explained in detail; examples of calculated results show how a total volume of midden was produced. The number of households was determined using air-photo and ground reconnaissance, as well as statistical methods used by previous researchers (which are discussed). -- AATA