Post by maree on Feb 1, 2008 21:03:02 GMT 1
I read on the Shetland News website that the SIC has agreed to part fund an action plan to help gain Geopark status for Shetland.
Much work has already been done on this project over the past few years and Northmavine has already started to see the benefit. The geological wall is complete at Mavis Grind and additional geological exhibits are currently being installed at Braewick and Stenness at Eshaness.
Together they will form part of a Volcanic Trail, currently being worked on by some members of the Shetland Geopark Working Group and project officer Kate Dougan. A leaflet to guide folk around the trail will be available soon as well as interpretive boards at each location.
Shetland in general, and Northmavine in particular, has the most amazing geology and the bid to become a Geopark is an important step forward in letting the world know what's here in Shetland.
So far there are 32 Geoparks worldwide and entry is controlled by UNESCO on a strict basis, so that only the very strongest areas are given the status. The status is also reveiwed every three years after it is awarded, so areas have to keep up standards and strive to improve. For this reason the visitor can be assured that the area will offer a quality experience.
The funding recently awarded by the SIC will help to employ a project worker, develop further geology trails and exhibits and provide funds for marketing, education and the progression of the Geopark application.
Many areas that have already received Geopark status have seen a marked improvement in visitor numbers and hopefully Shetland would also see the economic benefit to local businesses providing goods and services.
There's still lots to tell folk about our geology in Northmavine and we'll continue to be part of the Working Group and work along with Kate, the geology officer, to help further develop Northmavine as a jewel in geological crown. Kate has done a fantastic job as the part-time officer for just over a year now and we've really enjoyed working with her.
Much work has already been done on this project over the past few years and Northmavine has already started to see the benefit. The geological wall is complete at Mavis Grind and additional geological exhibits are currently being installed at Braewick and Stenness at Eshaness.
Together they will form part of a Volcanic Trail, currently being worked on by some members of the Shetland Geopark Working Group and project officer Kate Dougan. A leaflet to guide folk around the trail will be available soon as well as interpretive boards at each location.
Shetland in general, and Northmavine in particular, has the most amazing geology and the bid to become a Geopark is an important step forward in letting the world know what's here in Shetland.
So far there are 32 Geoparks worldwide and entry is controlled by UNESCO on a strict basis, so that only the very strongest areas are given the status. The status is also reveiwed every three years after it is awarded, so areas have to keep up standards and strive to improve. For this reason the visitor can be assured that the area will offer a quality experience.
The funding recently awarded by the SIC will help to employ a project worker, develop further geology trails and exhibits and provide funds for marketing, education and the progression of the Geopark application.
Many areas that have already received Geopark status have seen a marked improvement in visitor numbers and hopefully Shetland would also see the economic benefit to local businesses providing goods and services.
There's still lots to tell folk about our geology in Northmavine and we'll continue to be part of the Working Group and work along with Kate, the geology officer, to help further develop Northmavine as a jewel in geological crown. Kate has done a fantastic job as the part-time officer for just over a year now and we've really enjoyed working with her.
