Abstract
The research involved conducting a site inventory and proposing a management strategy for six selected Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Sites (RIGSs) namely: Kirkby Brook, Kirkby Brook Waterfall, Knowsley Brook, Knowsley Park, Statd Moers Park and Charlotte’s Pagsy. The RIGSs are located in Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council (MBC), Merseyside County which is North-West of the United Kingdom. The ages of the rock formation in the area range from Carboniferous to Quaternary with respect to geological timescale. A descriptive research approach was adopted for the study of the RIGSs and data was generated in-situ through geological mapping. This involved direct recording of geological observations in the study area which included site description and assessment, and condition monitoring of the geologically interesting features for a period of four months; October 2012 to January 2013. Photographs were taken to illustrate the site condition at the time the research was conducted. Results showed that the condition at the sites was generally poor and this indicates that a geoconservation management plan is required for the sites suggesting ways of managing and conserving the RIGSs.This research demonstrates how geo-conservation can inform and enlighten individuals; and how the geological and geomorphological features, processes and sites can contribute to the aesthetics of the environment. It also suggests how it could render socio-economic support for sustainable development to give a strong basis for valuing the abiotic resources and promote the importance of geosciences through the role of sustainable geological key elements and land resources.
Highlights
Geodiversity is an important component of Britain’s natural heritage
This section gives the detailed description of the present Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Sites (RIGSs) composition and condition of the surveyed area and this is discussed under the following headings: site name, site number, grid reference, site value (Geodiversity), site threats, site condition, images, and location map showing each of the site and their relationship
The results show the summary of the audit, value and condition assessment of the RIGSs in the Knowsley area and the images illustrating the present condition and the level of management practices in the study area
Summary
Various efforts have been undertaken in the United Kingdom and globally to create awareness and the need to conserve this natural heritage resource. RIGSs, known as Geodiversity Sites are non-statutory sites which provide important contribution to the overall network necessary to ensure maintenance of the range of diversity of the Earth’s Heritage and this aspect, and for education and research, cultural and recreational purposes (Hooke, 2012; Gray, 2013). In this study as it relates to Geodiversity, the management of interesting sites entails the recording and monitoring of local sites which is dependent upon specific aims and objectives (Burek & Prosser, 2008). The groups are charged with the responsibilities of designating sites of importance, conservation and management of geological sites together with creating some information and education platforms. RIGSs groups in the UK operate under the auspices of a national
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