Damming of the Tigris and Euphrates will inundate hundreds of archaeological sites. Rescue operations attempt to salvage what can be saved. Universities, museums, and the Ministry of Culture are prioritizing the artifacts, but wanton destruction of certain strata is necessary to reach lower levels in the time interval permitted for excavation. A new master plan is in effect, but there is little coordination of work between the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Culture. The building of the dams has provided the incentive to conduct archaeological surveys of the area affected. International cooperation has responded to the crisis at a number of sites work remains to reassemble mosaics, walls, and other structures. Alternative plans, however, are being sought to protect the archaeological heritage at Hasankeyf, Turkey, without damage to the site.