• ~ar h c enc conservat• on No. 32 January 1993 Contents fossils and landforms which underlie Editorial all the rest of our work. Geology and geomorphology underpin many of In Great Britain, the public's Making rocks talk 3 the properties that give landscape its interest in the earth sciences and, Making rocks scenic qualities - and remember, the consequently, their support for The copper king ofAnglesey natural beauty of the countryside is earth science conservation is - Parys Mountain revisited 6 the biggest asset of the tourist disappointingly low. The attention industry. The rocks not only given to the earth sciences and influence the kind of plants, animals, related issues in the popular press, The West Runton elephant 9 birds and insects which we find in on radio and on television is every part of the countryside, but correspondingly poor. Often the The Skye plesiosaur 11 also shape the lives and livelihoods of only exposure that adults get to our the human communities that live subject is through their children Coastal cell studies here. and the enthusiasm generated at Magnus Magnusson KBE, Chairman, Scottish Natural Heritage Yet the earth sciences tend to be, school. - a basis for coastal zone management . 12 alas, the Cinderella discipline. It is n 1 April 1992, a new If I were to pick out two words perceived to be a subject apart, But the cause of this lies not ,vith Earth science conservation training pack . 16 the media, not with the educators, conservation agency was born which were absolutely central to our poorly integrated with mainstream and not with the public not O - Scottish Natural Heritage ethos and operational methods, they conservation practice, too esoteric for wanting to know, but with us - the Conservation and landfill (SNH). It is a government grant would be 'sustainability' and most tastes, too specialised, almost earth scientists. If we want to be - a question oftiming .. 18 aided agency, formed by the merger 'partnership'. The concept of too scholarly. To date, work in this up there with the wildlife people of the old Nature Conservancy sustainability is not new - it has been field has been concentrated too much, who enjoy massive popular support Who would buy a coal tip? .. 20 Council and the former Countryside a buzz-word in international perhaps, at the academic end of the for their cause - we must cast off Commission for Scotland, and is environmental circles ever since the spectrum, as evidenced with the the image of living on a cloud of responsible to Parliament through the 1980 Word Conservation Strategy. preoccupation with massive learned Motorways can seriously improve your exposure . specialist terms and concepts, and 22 Secretary of State for Scotland. Some people are getting rather blase publications like the Geological come back down to earth. We have inhetited all the about it now, but in SNH we view it Conservation Review (GCR). That The Malvern International Conference on Geological responsibilities of the two agencies, very differently. We have been is not to say that the GCR is The Royal Society for Nature and Landscape Conservation . 24 and the combined expertise, presented with a sustainability unimportant - far from it; as long as Conservation, the Geologists' enthusiasm and commitment of their challenge in an Act of Parliament. the system of designating SSSIs Association, the three country staffs. We have brought together Our founding legislation, the Natural remains in place, we must have a conservation agencies and a Geology and the public in Glasgow .. 25 under one roof care both for Heritage (Scotland) Act 1991, enjoins sound academic justification for every handful of provincial museums are Scotland's areas of high nature us "to have regard to the desirability site we notify. all working towards giving the earth The hidden depths of geology . 26 conservation value and for landscape of securing £:Ilat anything done, It is not quite enough to say that sciences, and the conservation of quality. But our remit is even whether by SNH or any other person these sites are of scientific interest geological and landscape features, a Fossils for profit broader than the sum of those of the in relation to the natural heritage of scientific interest simply means that it better public face. Clearly there is two predecessor bodies; we are also Scotland, is undertaken in a manner is of interest to scientists. If we are to - the Gilwern Hill controversy . an opportunity here for all involved 27 now concerned with the proper that is sustainable." gain public support for using public with the earth sciences and earth aspirations of the people of Scotland. But fostering environmental money to safeguard and protect science conservation to do likewise Book review . 28 Let me summarise our new remit. awareness - awareness of the natural documents from the past, we have to and 'sell' this fascinating chapter in The basis of our philosophy is simple helitage - is as important as any of be able to articulate valid reasons for the story of our national heritage in Snippets . 28 - we must sustain the natural heritage our tasks. Without public conservation which will have the widest possible sense. The if we want it to sustain us. understanding and appreciation, it relevance to the layman. We have to success of RIGS and the Earth science conservation is a twice yearly journal produced for the earth The aims and objectives of SNH will be much harder to achieve any of establish clear links between familiar development of ROCKWATCH science conservation community by English Nature, Scottish Natural Heritage are: our aims. Public support and public landscapes and the earth sciences; have shmvn what can be achieved and the Countryside Council for Wales. We would like to thank all those who • to safeguard and enhance sympathy are, therefore, vital to our links which would provide the now it's up to us all to deliver! have assisted with the preparation of the magazine. However, the opinions Scotland's natural heritage ultimate success. That means we opportunity to explain the expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the above agencies. have to go out and explain ourselves countryside in terms of its geological Mike Harley Contact addresses for the editorial board are as follows: • to foster awareness and to the public who are our customers components, and the profound and understanding of the natural and clients. We have got to make cataclysmic processes which have heritage Managing editor Mike Harley, English Nature, Northrninster our language comprehensible, our shaped it. House, Peterborough PEl 1UA • to encourage public enjoyment of science relevant, our aspirations The balance between strict (Telephone 0733-318303) the natural heritage, and to meaningful. scientific accuracy and looser lay promote responsible public access Obviously some aspects of our intelligibility is not an easy balance to Editors Alan McKirdy, Scottish Natural Heritage, to it, in a way which does not Cover photo: A winter view work are more immediately user get right. But demystifying the Bonnington Bond, 2 Anderson Place, Edinburgh damage it towards Snowdon across Llynnau friendly than others. Mention wildlife subject is a problem which we can, EH65NP Mymbyr and Nantygwryd. The • to engage public support and and habitat conservation, and you and must, address more vigorously. (Telephone 031-554-9797) spectacular glaciated terrain of harness voluntary effort for the trigger an irnrnediate response Indeed, in SNH we have started Snowdonia and problems benefit of the environment amongst naturalists who love birds doing just that, with a pilot project Stewart Campbell, Countryside Council for and animals and flowers. Landscape which takes a series of 30 selected associated \vith its conserv'ation will Wales, Plas Penrhos, Ffordd Penrhos, Bangor, • to improve the natural environment be a major theme in the concluding in and around towns safeguard and countryside access can geological sites and tries to explain Gwynedd LL57 2LQ be equally emotive because they them in comprehensible language. field excursion of the ~1alvern (Telephone 0248-370444) • to encourage environmental International Conference on involve aesthetics and enjoyment. As custodians of the SSSI system, sustainability in all forms of But geology? SNH has inherited we in SNH have to be able to Geological and Landscape economic activity Conservation, to be held in July Editorial assistant Jo Collinge, English Nature, Northrninster considerable responsibilities for the persuade landowners and planners 1993. House, Peterborough PEl 1UA • to develop partnerships which support and public awareness of earth and industrialists of the crucial (Photo by Ste,vart Campbell) (Telephone 0733-318322). encourage joint action to achieve science conservation - the importance of safeguarding the rocky our aims. conservation of our heritage of rocks, documents of the past that are found •2 •3 A comprehensive redevelopment of the way in which it has changed and on their land, or the land which they agenda, and on people's personal the Knockan Visitor Centre and evolved over time. In taking familiar wish to utilise. And that will involve, agendas. It will certainly make the if I dare. say so, speaking in the designation of SSSIs, and their 11 geological trail, near Ullapool, is views and landmarks as the starting being planned at present. Knockan point, visitors, who for the most part language of the people, and not the concomitant constraints on potentially Cliff is a site of international renown will be unburdened by any prior esoteric shorthand of specialists. damaging activities, much more because of the important role it knowledge of the subject, will be led Frankly, there are times when the acceptable. played in the early development of back in time through changing citations on our notification There are several initiatives that we structural geology. Students and hill environments, using a variety of documents read like gobbledygook to are even now considering. They walkers come to the Visitor Centre innovative interpretative techniques. the layman. involve develop,ing active partnerships in their thousands each year, and the We take our duty to "foster an We cannot expect the public at with, amongst others, local opportunity exists to make it one of awareness and understanding of the large to understand or appreciate the communities, local authorities, importance of the earth sciences if voluntary bodies and industry, to the main tourist attractions in the natural heritage" seriously ~ in fact region. A recent survey clearly the earth sciences offer an excellent they remain the exclusive domain of facilitate effective conservation. The demonstrated that most visitors opportunity for SNH to realise this the earth scientists. In geology, we purpose must be to show how the come to Scotland because of the fine important objective. We hope that are dealing with almost unimaginable earth sciences and the landscape scenery and unspoilt countryside. In the redevelopment of the Knockan immensities of time and space. In come together. redeveloping the centre, we have a Centre will be one of many Scotland, we have spectacular For instance, we are hoping to unique opportunity to provide interpretative projects which SNH evidences of the geological processes undertake a comprehensive visitors with an informal will undertake with our community that will help to make these concepts redevelopment of the Visitor Centre commentary on the landscape, and partners throughout Scotland. not only imaginable but real, at the classic geological site at concrete, and relevant to our present. Knockan, in the north western We should be using every means Highlands. This would interpret not at our disposal to present the story of only the geology and natural history the evolution of our landscape in a of the area immediately surrounding form which is readily comprehensible the centre as at present, but cover to the people of Scotland, because it much of the story of northern really is a marvellous yarn. Scotland as a whole. It could play a Our geological past involves a crucial role in the process of raising barely believable story of whole awareness. continents moving around like Even closer to home, in croutons floating on a bowl of thick Edinburgh, what about Castle Rock soup, of great oceans forming and and Holyrood Park? Edinburgh disappearing like seasonal puddles, of Castle is top of the tourist league in and by the turn of this century, it had and nature reserves, like the RSPB mighty mountains being thrown up Scotland, with more than a million become a \;)Arren and treeless sheep and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, that and worn down, of formidable visitors each year. Edinburgh is built run. The erosion caused by have led the way in providing grass glaciers and ice caps advancing and on the eroded roots of a volcano that thousands of visitors did the rest. roots support for the work of the retreating behind mile-thick walls of erupted some 340 million years ago, There are now plans afoot to restore official conservation agencies. In ice as they melted and reformed when Scotland lay under the equator. the natural and landscape qualities of RIGS, we can look to a powerful again. Scotland itself has been a Castle Rock itself was carved into a the park, to make it worthy of the growth of what one might call desert, a swamp, a tropical rainforest classic crag and tail shape by the capital city. Earth science bedrock support, in Scotland as in and a desert again; it has drifted gouging passage of ice during the last conservation has its role to play here England and Wales. north over the planet with an ever glaciation. SNH has a tremendous too - another opportunity that should Finally, let us not forget that many changing cargo of lizards, dinosaurs, opportunity to join forces with not be missed. of the basic principles of earth science tropical forests, giant redwoods, Historic Scotland to give the story of In SNH, we have a very real have been established by geologists sharks, bears, lynx, giant elk, wolves, Scotland's most spectacular national opportunity to play an important role working in Scotland. Among the first and also human beings. monument a much wider and longer in helpirig to foster a new geological localities scheduled for I think it is probably easier to fire geological perspective. understanding of the natural heritage conservation were Fossil Grove in the imagination of youngsters than of Holyrood Park, at the roots of and what underlies it. Wherever and Glasgow and Agassiz Rock on older people. The romance of Arthur's Seat, offers a similar whenever we can, we shall be looking Blackford Hill in Edinburgh. The dinosaurs, and the fossil evidence that opportunity for integrated to improve our service of geological outstanding pioneers of geology has helped to bring them to life, interpretation. The friendly old publications and regional guidebooks, should be given their proper place in attracts children from their very neighbourhood volcano is itself an and provide on-site notice boards, the intellectual history of Scotland earliest years. Modern teaching, with SSSI because of its geological and leaflets and displays. men like Edinburgh born James its fieldwork and carefully planned botanical interest. It is home to the But we cannot do it on our own. Hutton, the 'father of modem outings, can reinforce and build on only known colony of urban fulmars We must seek partners - partners geology'; Charles Lyell, the prophet this ready made interest. We have to in Britain, which have moved in from who can help to inspire and of the theory of continental drift; the try to ensure that this early curiosity the coast to take advantage of the illuminate, partners in the local stonemason and journalist Hugh is kept alive and vibrant so that, in artificial sea cliffs afforded by the communities and local authorities and Miller of Cromarty, who did so much time, it can be related more fully to solidified magma slab of Salisbury local enterprise companies who can to popularise the concept of geology; the wider environmental issues of Crags. Holyrood Park itself help to finance and inform. and coming right up-to-date, self nature conservation, of landscape, represents a unique survival of a This is where the exciting spread taught Stan Wood, former merchant and of recreation, which are figuring wildlife habitat within the heart of a of community and local volunteer seaman and insurance salesman, more and more largely on the political major city. It was originally a royal groups in the RIGS (Regionally whose fossil finding exploits have hunting forest dating from the 12th Important GeologicaV thrust Scotland into the limelight of Redevelopment of the Knockan Visitor Century. As the old town of geomorphological Sites) initiative is international geology once again. Centre and geological trail is currently Edinburgh grew, the oaks were felled going to be of inestimable value. There is a fascinating story to tell being planned by SNH. to provide timber. It was later turned Until now, it is the voluntary groups that is of profound relevance to the (Photo from SNH) into a royal park given over to sheep, concerned with wildlife conservation world. Let's tell it to the world.• • 4 •5 inter-grown in the 'bluestones', and deposits of Kuroko, Japan. Argument were formed at a later stage than the The copper king of Anglesey I has, however, raged over the exact pyrite and chalcopyrite ores. Much timing of the mineralisation. An of the mineralisation visible today is - Parys Mountain revisited exhalative, volcanogenic model would pyrite, left in place as it was of no imply a probable Caradoc age (Upper economic importance. Additionally, Nick Pearce, Countryside Council for Wales Ordovician, approximately 450 smaller amounts of tetrahedrite group million years ago), with the host minerals (complex copper-iron volcanics being underlain by Arenig antimony sulphides, which may N IGeological Llanvirn (Lower Ordovician) shaley ~v-'v~_~WCh contain arsenic,in exchange for some t setting mudstones, siltstones and tuffs, and antimony) and some rare bismuth t "' ....t:PARYS MOUNTAIN ' overlain by graptolite bearing Middle sulphosalts have been recorded. ....".. L/ ~ , The Parys to Upper Llandovery (Lower Parys Mountain is also the type Mountain deposit is Silurian) black shales (Pointon and locality for the lead sulphate, the only known Ixer, 1980; Westhead, 1991). Others anglesite, first described in 1783 and example of its type in have, however, argued for named after the island, and for the United Kingdom, mineralisation being closely associated pisanite, a hydrated iron-copper and is one of only two with either remobilisation of the sulphate, first recorded in 1946. such ore deposits in sulphide minerals at the end of the the British Isles - the Caledonian Orogeny (about 395 other being at Avoca million years ago), or a completely The SSSls ~ g~;~~~~~us Some of the ochre settling ponds east of the opencast wor1tlngs. These fonn one of \ separate event in the early Cambrian _Ordovician'":: \( / ---' IJ.J ~ in Eire. The Parys Five conservation areas within the the lichen sites currently being considered for SSSI status. SiJuriao ~'<:.r ~ ..- / Mountain ores are Carboniferous (about 353 million Great Opencast at Parys Mountain, (Photo by Nick Pearce) e Precambrian of the Caer,narfon WALES exhalative deposits years ago; Nun et ai, 1979). Field Mona Complex } , and a further site at Morfa Ddu _ Imrush'e igneous rocks / formed where hot, evidence of the deformation of both slightly to the east, have been pits of the Great Opencast and Mona maintenance, the main shaft and o 10 20 kms mineral laden, the volcaniclastic sediments and ore identified. All are notified as SSSIs mines. Within a few years, levels having been allowed to flood I I I sulphurous fluids were before lithification, however, and encompass the rock types and production was up to 3,000 tons of until it is financially viable to start l Summary geology of Anglesey expelled onto the sea contradicts the latter hypothesis. The mineralisation associated with this copper per annum, which compares production. When production does floor from volcanic succession of lavas and sediments was unique ore deposit. These areas with the annual output from Cornwall start, it is intended to exU-act about Parys Mountain is the location of one vents. These fluids may have been at folded into a syncline during the represent a practical compromise to at this time of 4,434 tons (Greenley, 350,000 tonnes of ore annually, of those metal mines known, in name temperatures of around 300 degrees Caledonian Orogeny, when some the original site proposal which 1919). During the 19th Century, giving a projected lifespan of 15 at least, to most British geologists. celsius and, on mixing with cold sea remobiJisation of the ore probably encompassed the whole of the Great mining continued and moved into years. Further drilling and The mountain rises to 147 metres water, precipitated large volumes of occurred. Opencast, and which was reduced in underground workings, with depths in exploration is planned once the mine above sea level in the north eastern sulphide minerals. The fluids were size in such a way that the full range places of 174 metres belo\y sea level, is in operation. The ore will be corner of Anglesey, approximately 2 accompanied by extrusion of rhyolitic Mineralisation of geological features were retained and a total depth of 321 metres below crushed and ground, with lead, zinc kilometres south west of the town of lavas and ashes, often producing a without hindering the mining the top of the mountain. By 1904, all and copper concentrates being Almwch, and has been dissected by rock type that has been termed Mineralisation at Parys Mountain operation - this having obvious mining of any significance had separated by froth-flotation methods Wales' largest copper mine. For 'siliceous sinter' - which commonly is is copper-lead-zinc based, with the economic benefits for the Anglesey ceased, although for some 60 years on site. The waste slurry will be much of its active life, the Great host to the ore minerals (see Pointon main sulphide minerals being pyrite community. Careful planning has after, copper 'cement' was produced pumped into large settling ponds on Opencast and the adjacent Mona and Ixer, 1980). The Parys (iron sulphide, often containing meant that threats to the site by precipitation on iron in large the south side of the mountain. Mine were the world's largest Mountain deposit was described by arsenic), chalcopyrite (copper-iron (including landfill and further 'copper ponds'. At least 130,000 Mining activity will not affect the producers of copper, and they have Ixer and Gaskarth (1975) as sulphide), sphalerite (zinc sulphide) extraction during the current tons of copper, in total, were spectacular natUre of the Great left a spectacular legacy of mine 'Kuroko-type', based on similarities to and galena (lead sulphide). Galena operations) can be accommodated produced from Parys Mountain. Opencast, or the ochre ponds which workings and mineral tips. The the Tertiary exhalative volcanic and sphalerite often occur finely without reducing its scientific value Interest in Parys Mountain resumed are currently scheduled as Ancient opencast pits now show important (see Earth science conservation 25, in 1955, when the area was acquired Monuments and specifically protected sections through parts of the ore pages 47-49). Some illegal tipping by Angl~sey Mining Exploration Ltd. by the planning permission for body, and for this reason parts of has gone on, but blocked access roads Since this date, the area has changed mining and ore processing. Parys Mountain have been given appear to have had the desired effect hands several times, finally coming SSSI designation. The cessation of in stopping this. under the control of Anglesey Mining Environmental mining at the turn of this century was plc in 1985. Surveys since the mid impact not the end of the story; Parys Mining history 1950s have included drilling 47,360 Mountain is now under the cono'ol of metres of core which located new Parys Mountain has an enormous Anglesey Mining plc (in which Mining at Parys Mountain reserves totalling approximately 5.5 impact on the landscape of north east Imperial Metals Corporation of probably dates back to the Bronze million tonnes, grading 1.5 percent Anglesey. The tips, coloured in Canada hold a 42 percent share), and Age, with artifacts from this time copper, 3 percent lead, 6 percent shades of red, purple, yellow, orange they await a bener economic climate having been discovered. There is no zinc, 69 grammes per tonne silver and brown, can be seen from several before commencing production from direct evidence of Roman mining at and 0.4 grammes per tonne gold. By miles away, standing high above the a new underground lode. the site, but folk tales, evidence of fire May 1988, Anglesey Mining plc had otherwise green and undulating setting, and finds of Roman cakes of commenced work on a new shaft near landscape. When exposed to the Access copper in the area, make it very likely Morfa Ddu, which reached a depth atmosphere, sulphide minerals that the Romans were active here of 300 metres by July 1989 (Swallow, (particularly pyrite) start to oxidise, Access to much of the disused (Manning, 1959). Extraction then 1990). Levels have been driven from creating this remarkable colour mine and tips is relatively easy, along appears to have ceased until a major the shaft through competent rocks scheme. By a series of chemical old mine roads. Areas of the old episode of mining commenced on 2 needing minimal support, and a reactions, the oxidation produces workings, particularly the steep faces, March 1768, after some 11 years of further 13,500 metres of core have iron-rich waters and dilute sulphuric are potentially dangerous and any exploration. This unearthed the been drilled, including 10,500 metres acid, causing highly acidic run-off at individuals or parties wishing to visit Great Golden Venture Lode, which is from underground sites. Currently, Parys Mountain. These waters also the site must first obtain permission The Great Opencast. The remains of a windmill form a prominent landmar1t atop today marked by the spectacular open the mine is under care and carry in solution many of the other from Anglesey Mining plc. Parys Mountain. (Photo by Nick Pearce) 7 •6 • 1 ore and trace metals, including lead, I he Cromer Forest Bed zinc, copper, cadmium, arsenic and Fonnation, exposed along the ~/ coasts of north east Norfolk bismuth - all are toxic at relatively low N I i~:>---.~-~---/J I ./ ...~ I T concentrations. As the run-off itself I and Suffolk, comprises a complex , I 1 1-_ _ succession of marine and freshwater oxidises, iron held in solution forms a , ' Robert Driscoll and fine grained, red-orange precipitate deposits covering several cold and temperate (interglacial) stages. It is Anthony Stuart, known as ochre, which scavenges high Norwich Castle Museum concentrations of trace metals from overlain by thick tills and outwash that I represent the first (Anglian) glaciation the waters. Large ochre ponds are ,I still visible at the site and may be a , of East Anglia (West, 1980). The assemblages are given by West (1980). Mrs H Hems discovered a large bone I Forest Bed has been famous for its The deposits are currently estimated to in the Freshwater Bed. The bone was potential source of contamination for /~ I . , -'!. many years to come. The scale of I i fossil mammal remains since early in be about 600,000 years old. excavated by Norfolk l-.1.useums workings makes Parys Mountain one I I the last century and still attracts the Fossils obtained from this Service staff (from Cromer Museum Silurian Cl Shales of the best sites in Britain to study the Chert, chloritie chen attention of professional and amateur exceptionally rich site over more than and Norwich Castle Museum), Mr geochemical processes operating o~ Pa.r...s 0 Volc.anicl:lsrics, rbyolite flows and flow bn:ccias geologists. a century and a half include plants and Mrs Hems and other volunteers, ~ M.uul1tain ID~ Siliceous stntcr during the weathering of sulphide ores. i Vokvlics [...... -I Nowadays, most of the old (pollen and plant macro-fossils), and proved to be the pelvis of a very Imrush'C rhyolite fossiliferous localities are obscured by molluscan shells and beetles. The large elephant. Further excavation ~ 0 Parys shaJes --- Fault Additional aspects Precambrian -0 MODa Complex Geological boundary sea defences. Fortunately, however, thousands of vertebrate fossils in revealed one other bone, a beautifully Dolcrilc :::~~~:~ Opencast workings West Runton, the most important various museum and private preserved left astragalus. These bones The unusual geochemical Geological map of the Parys Mountain area (after Pointon & Ixer, 1980). single locality where Forest Bed collections include fish, amphibians, were clearly part of the same skeleton environment at Parys Mountain has - vertebrates have been found in situ, is reptiles, birds and mammals, ranging and it was anticipated that more bones led to a range of rare, metal tolerant, References still exposed to wave action. The cliffs from voles and mice, to deer and might be exposed in the future. plants colonising the area. Parts of Greenley, E. 1919. The geology of 1979. The age of mineralisation at Parys and foreshore at this locality were rhinoceros (Stuart, 1992). Small Accordingly, the find spot was kept Mountain, Anglesey. In: Harris, AL., Holland, the mine tips and some buildings Anglesey. Memoirs of the Geological Survey of scheduled as a geological SSSI in vertebrate remains are fairly common, under observation by local collectors, here are being considered for SSSI Great Britain. HMSO, London, 980pp (2 C.H. & Leake, BE. The Caledonides of the volumes). British Isles - reviewed. Geological Society of 1954. Subsequently, the West Runton and the majority have been found by who maintained contact with Norwich notification on the basis of rare London, 619-627. Freshwater Bed, exposed at the base of wet sieving the sediments. Large Castle and Cromer Museums. lichen communities. Other heavy Ixer, RA & Gaskarth, JW. 1975. Parys the cliff, and the overlying marine and mammal remains are much rarer, but On 18 January 1991, Mrs K Kenell metal tolerant plant species have Mountain - a possible Kuroko-style deposit. Pointon, C.R. & Ixer, RA 1980. Parys Mountain mineral deposit, Anglesey, Wales: freshwater deposits, were designated over the years numerous bones and found bone fragments in the been described for the first time Paper presented to Mineral Deposits Study Group, Geological Society of London, Session geology and ore mineralogy. Transactions of the stratotype for the Cromerian teeth have been collected, especially Freshwater Bed, about 4 metres east of from the site, and in some cases 6: Stratiform mineral deposits. Leicester, the Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (Section temperate (interglacial) stage of the when the fossils have been exposed by the pelvis site. Further fragments of these species have been used in the December 1975. B: Applied Earth Science), 89, 143-155. early Middle Pleistocene (Mitchell et a combination of gales and high tides the bone, a pathologically fused left colonisation of other areas of highly Manning, W. 1959. The Parys and Mona Swallow, M.JA 1990. Renaissance of aI, 1973). Although threatened on eroding the cliffs. ulna and radius, were later recovered metal contaminated ground. mines in Anglesey. In: The future of non Parys Mountain. In: Jones, M.J. (ed.) Metals, more than one occasion, this prime Before 1990, only sparse fossil by M Warren (Cromer Museum). Inevitably, these metal tolerant plants ferrous metal mining in Great Britain and Materials and Industry. Institute of Mining and palaeontological locality remains fragments of elephant bones had been enter the local food chain for birds, Ireland. Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Metallurgy, London, 335-342. unprotected by sea defences, the cliffs found..lt West Runton. Moreover, the The Boxing Day excavation rabbits, rats and mice, providing yet 313-328. Westhead , S.J. 1991. Prospects at Parys are allowed to erode, and important finds of elephants from other Forest further areas for scientific research at Nutt, M.J,C., Ineson, P.R. & Mitchell, J.G. Mountain. Geology Today, 7, 130-133. new material continues to be found. Bed localities so far have been odd Just over a year after the discovery The West Runton Freshwater Bed teeth and bones, never several bones of the pelvis, further cliff erosion 4 14 4' 5 occupies a broad channel, about 200 belonging to the same skeleton. exposed more bones which were found ~ -, metres across in section and up to 2 by R Sinclair, a local collector, on metres thick, cut into sands and Discovery of the pelvis o 250 500 metres \\_,;;::::~~, Boxing Day 1991. He was joined by J ,-",15' I I I gravels attributed to the Beestonian Clayden and J Lightwing, and they '" • ~>11'''-';'-''-;;00,~, 00 0-0 .' . /' \l " cold stage, east of West Runton Gap It was both exciting and unexpected managed fo recover a right scapula, N ,~;:~"~ ~ ~ --000',-,-, , /:>' /Y \\". 0" /# . yOo>- '-""---~'O;!<- /':-ovOVOl( ~ (Woman Hythe). Details of the when, on 13 December 1990, right fibula, three vertebrae, several o ,,,\'lb . stratigraphy, pollen and plant macro- £ _. ,c, ',-, "'v" "_ . "" (1 L following erosion of the cliffs, Mr and ribs and a hyaena coprolite (fossil '--y'-
• Carmarthen Bay ~ The coast is being continually subjected • Swansea Bay to change on a variety of scales. Recently, the construction of the Conwy • Severn Estuary (in the process Tunnel had a profound impact on the of being set up). shape of the lower Conwy Estuary. The same estuary is under consideration as a site for a tidal barrage. Understanding The boundaries bet\'Jeen these cells 5 / 6 the impact of such changes on the circulation of sediments is fundamental take into account administrative as 'Carmarthen ,,/' 'Swansea Bay' to any management of the coastal zone. Bay'". ~~ .,. (Photo by Rod Jones) Coastal cell groups in Wales. .' '<=f 12 -13 flexible and responsive to the presently has such a high profile. requirements of other group Essentially, shoreline management is members. This is far more concerned with the intertidal zone constructive than, for example, simply and the critical changes which occur commenting on expensive and there - for example, changes in completed design work. beach height which reflect changes in sand supply. The development 3 Education of shoreline management plans, which address issues such as The groups also provide an maintenance of beach levels, cliff excellent mechanism for informing the erosion and siltation of channels, other members of CCW's role and provides a firm responsibilities. For example, making foundation on which to build wider the scientific value of sites clear to planners and engineers will allow The mouth of the Tawe Estuary is them to be more responsive and dramatically constrained by man, with flexible when considering their the hydraulic regime being further modified by the construction of the conservation requirements. Tawe Barrage. This has resulted in a modified sediment transport regime 4 A precursor to coastal which is still readjusting to past events. zone management Note the deep dredged channel to Swansea docks, and the new marina CCW regards the study groups as development and sea wall to the west. fundamental to the management of (Photo copyright Swansea Bay Coastal Cell the coastal zone, in which all parties Group) can work together at a technical level shoreline. This work is based on to avoid conflicts. Offshore coastal features can have a profound impact on the wave climate of the photographing incoming waves by adjacent coastline. Thus, Sarn Badrig, a natural glacial deposit, is an important video camera to determine wave 5 Baseline documentation control on the wave climate of Tremadog Bay. The effects of this feature are being examined by the Cardigan Bay study group. heights and wave frequencies. In an era of climatic and possible (Photo by Rod Jones) sea level changes, it is essential that The way forward the contemporary coastal resource is Within the groups, the concept of well documented. This will provide shoreline management is being an essential and accurate datum addressed. This is much more against which future changes can be restrictive than the wider concept of monitored. coastal zone management, which
6 Monitoring Many of the classic geological exposures are on the coast and, in some cases, CCW needs to understand the these may be threatened by coastal defences which can obscure the changes occurring on the coast so that geological interest. Such a situation it can better manage its coastal sites. exists between Lavernock and Penarth, To this end, it is important that an where there are pressures to extend sea adequate monitoring programme of defences into the geological S55I, thus coastal change is in place. One of the obscuring the exposure. The photograph shows the end of the current sea defence main functions of the groups is to and the inevitable and unwanted build up coordinate what, in the past, has been oftalus. a rather haphazard monitoring of the (Photo by Stewart Campbell) shoreline. The form that this monitoring takes varies between coastal zone management strategies. different groups. The joint funding Although these developments are by members enables work to be in their infancy, they mark an carried out which CCW would be important change in attitudes, and unable to finance from its own show an acceptance that the resources, and which is more previously piece-meal and haphazard comprehensive in coverage than approaches to development and would otherwise be the case. The engineering in the coastal zone, Swansea Bay group has, for example, which were never desirable, are no carried out a programme of aerial longer acceptable or sustainable.• photography at a scale of 1: 10,000 for the entire length of its coastal cell. Oxwych Bay has been identified as an These photographs, taken at low important site for coastal water, have been used to produce a geomorphology by the Geological Conservation Review. The work of the contoured map of the intertidal area. coastal cell study group will help with Pressures on the coastline are often considerable, with development extending They form an important datum for the development of CCW's knowledge right up to the coastal edge· as seen here at Porthcawl. Protection of the high monitoring coastal change. In of this superb dune system, which is value capital assets has to be reconciled with the maintenance of beaches which contrast, the Cardigan Bay group has subject to intense visitor pressure. attract tourists. commenced a programme of (Photo copyright Swansea Bay Coastal Cell Group) (Photo copyright Swansea Bay Coastal Cell Group) monitoring wave energies reaching the - 14 15 produce expert geologists! The used for in-house training of staff in intention is to raise the user's the three country conservation geological knowledge to a level agencies. a h science conservation sufficient that they could converse Given the OU's experience in with experts when needing to take teacher education, successful take advice on the value, utility, and up of the training pack will only be conservation needs of an individual achieved if staff in the country site. It would not be needed by conservation agencies are given the most of those in education, in the specific task of acting as liaison earth science conservation business, officers who will interact with local training pack and by many people working as organisations to set up training professionals in the extractive schemes and seminars. Such industry. activities will be an integral part of Chris Wilson, Open University A very simple introduction to promoting a greater understanding minerals and rocks is followed by a of, and involvement in, earth Potential audience categories for earth science conservation training pack and basic introduction to igneous, science conservation to a much extent of their prior knowledge (numbers t the end of 1991, English improve their own knowledge, but to with sites, with the general public and sedimentary and metamorphic wider audience.• are very approximate). Nature contracted the help them train others without having internationally." processes, with the discussion of Open University (OU) to to prepare their own courses from Therefore, the training pack will be processes considering the origin of Knowledge of: prepare a draft of a training scratch. The current state of designed to give the target audience a the major types of landforms found pack on earth science knowledge of the different potential very basic knowledge of geology. in the UK. Approximate Geology Earth science Aconservation to be used with a wide audiences is not intended to be This will be the foundation on which A very elementary coverage of numbers conservation variety of 'students'. The text is now critical or inflammatory, but is an to build an understanding of the need fossils, and an introduction to virtually complete, and was written by attempt to be realistic about the wide for, and means of, earth science geological time sufficient to Specialists a team of OU staff (whose time has range of needs that the training pack conservation. Users should be able to understand terms on the '25 mile' been donated to the project), must address. understand the nature of sites that are and'10 mile' geological maps of the Non-geological staff in consultants and staff from English currently SSSIs, and those that are UK, is provided. This is followed 500 Poor/fair Poor/fair Nature and Scottish Natural Heritage. The content of the incorporated into RIGS schemes. by a 'potted' account of the major country conservation agencies The next step is to raise funds to pay The training pack will follow the events in the evolution of what is Earth science teaching staff for editing, design and printing. The training pack format of the OU's successful today the British Isles. This part 500 Good Poor/fair Geologists' Association have already Practical Conservation series (funded concludes with a beginner's guide to in universities and polytechnics given a generous donation, but a Earth science conservation in Great by the NCC and other organisations) looking at outcrops, which Academic and industrial significant amount is still needed to Britain justifies the conservation of and will be presented in three parts as introduces the basics of recording 500 Good Poor research .,staff ensure publication. geological sites on a number of outlined below (the titles used are what a site shows. The purpose of . grounds. These include a duty to provisional). The style adopted is this section is to help users to The need for training both present and future generations 'student active'. A variety of activities contribute to the National Scheme New earth science graduates 1,500 p.a. Good Poor to protect our geological heritage for are used to break up the text and for Geological Site Documentation. The case for conserving geological scientific research, for training earth retain the interest of readers. sites was eloquently made for a scientists to work in industry, and for Activities include examining minerals, 3 Conservation in action Geologists in industry 2,000 Good Poor professional audience in Earth science more general education from school rocks and fossils (that will be conservation in Great Britain - a level upwards. The case is also made This part of the training pack available in an optional kit), looking Museum geologists 200 Good Fair/good strategy, published by the then Nature that the British Isles were the cradle at and interpreting field data, and discusses the need for earth science Conservancy Council (NCC) in of early advances in geological considering why actual sites need to conservation, the nature of sites, December 1990. The message now science, be conserved and how conservation methods of selecting and enhancing Managers needs to be conveyed to a much and that the diversity of their of them can be achieved. Above all, sites, and concludes with a chapter wider audience, including those geology is fundamentally linked to the training pack is designed to lead suggesting how public awareness of involved with wildlife conservation, our archaeological and historical to action to support earth science the need for, and benefits of, Landowners 5,000 Poor Poor and the many professional and heritage. Professional geologists can conservation activities. conserving geological and amateur geologists who could play a easily accept such justifications, but geomorphological sites might be Managers in business crucial role in establishing and the vast majority of the potential increased. ? Poor Poor 1 Why should we conserve and commerce maintaining more local geological audience needs to know some basic conservation activities, particularly geological concepts in order to reach earth science sites? Publication and through the RIGS (Regionally such an understanding. dissemination Local authority planning staff >1,000 Poor Poor Important Geological! Likewise, to understand what is A few mini case studies show why geomorphological Sites) scheme. involved in the practice of earth sites need to be conserved and give As stated in the introductory As summarised in the table, the science conservation requires a basic an introduction to some of the basic Extractive site managers ?500 Poor/good Poor paragraph, publication is dependent target audience is a disparate one. grounding in geology. What would geology needed to understand their on raising additional funds. There Within it, there are many people who novices make of the following importance. Exemplars used include are also plans to include a video know nothing about geology, nor definition? a site linked to the history of Teachers 50,000 Poor Poor component to the pack, but this too earth science conservation. Others "Earth science conservation covers geological science in the UK, a is dependent on funding. will know something about survey, documentation, scientific palaeontological site, an important There is a wide range of contexts The Public conservation, but nothing about synthesis, selection, achieving stratigraphic site, a glacial site, and an in which the training pack could be geology, and vice versa. Only a recognition, countering threats, igneous site. used, such as briefing material for minority will be familiar with both enhancement and monitoring of earth RIGS groups, and courses or Members of local wildlife trusts 130,000 Poor Poor geology and the need for, and science sites. At the same time, it 2 Basic geology shorter seminars for local wildlife methods of, earth science aims to foster wider understanding of trusts, planners, industry and Members of local conservation. The last category need the subject and good communications This part provides a general 5,000 Poor/fair landowners. The pack will also be Good the training pack not so much to with those who are directly involved awareness of the subject; it will not geological societies 16 -17 quarry contains the type section of the Park Hill Member (the lowest unit of the Hartshill Formation of late I N A27 Conservation and landfill Precambrian-early Cambrian age) ~ ~~J unconformably overlying the \ Caldecote Volcanics. The site is Proposed alternative regarded as one of Britain's key sections Precambrian-Cambrian boundary a question of timing localities. British Coal' had permission to backfill the quarry with spoil, which andfill represents one of the most usually loath to abandon the existing would have resulted in the exposures serious threats to the long-term Richard Wright, English Nature approved restoration scheme, and is being buried. However, by agreeing L conservation of geological certainly under no obligation to do so. to pay for the lost tipping space, a sections in disused pits and quarries. when English Nature registers its However, persuading an operator that conservation section was retained at Although 'conservation-friendly' statutory interest in a site, is often it is worthwhile changing his plans to the edge of the site. In this case, it solutions to the technical problems of critical in achieving a successful incorporate a conservation face can was fortunate that the rocks dipped at conserving faces within landfill outcome. A site which has received work, but this is not an easy task. a fairly steep angle - the entire schemes do exist (see Earth science planning permission for infill prior to Boons Quarry in Warwickshire is a succession being present near the top conservation, 27, page 9), changes to SSSI designation places English good example of a success story. of the quarry face. existing landfill designs are generally Nature in a weak position - the If, however, a site is designated as viewed with apprehension by the planning permission has priority, and an SSSI before landfill is Moor Mill, Hertfordshire industry because of technical unless English Nature is able to pay contemplated, English Nature is in a A plan of Southerham Grey Pit showing the existing quarry with the proposed difficulties and the costs involved in compensation for loss of tipping space, much stronger position to ensure that Moor Mill is a key site for conservation sections to the north and east of the present faces. losing tipping space. the operator is unlikely to conserve a the scientific interest is not damaged. understanding the development of the The timing of an SSSI designation, face. The planning authority is also English Nature is ready to listen to the Thames, the sedimentary succession involve considerable loss of tipping Initial proposals to only conserve needs of the operator and v.rill assist in showing its diversion by the Anglian space. Fortunately, old borehole faces in the western part of the devising solutions to any technical glaciation. A lower gravel unit laid logs established that an area of quarry, along with the provision of problems posed, as at Moor Mill in down by the Thames, which at that unworked gravel existed away from borehole cover for the rest of the Hertfordshire. Considerable time flowed eastwards, is overlain by the main landfill area, and an offer site, were rejected since the critical importance is attached to developing laminated clays deposited in a lake to create an alternative excavation Chalk Marl exposures were located good working relationships with which formed in front of the ice there was accepted. This new site in the east. The company then operators. However, they appreciate sheet. A glacial advance then forced exposes th~ entire succes.sion and proposed cuning a lengthy that unless a satisfactory outcome is the Thames southwards into its has been rlotified as an SSSI. The alternative section behind part of the achieved, English Nature can and will, present course, depositing a layer of old site will be denotified in due northern face. Although a as a last resort, take the matter to boulder clay which, in turn, is course. considerable improvement, this Public Inquiry. Southerham Grey Pit overlain by a gravel unit formed by Moor l'vlill represents an excellent option had its limitations too, as a in East Sussex is an illusu'ation of such the Colne River system, which flowed example of English Nature, industry shallow northerly dip meant that a case. westwards. The complete succession and a local authority working exposure of the marl would be Another problem to be faced by was only present in a small part of constructively and imaginatively limited, with the lower-most beds English Nature is that most new the old gravel workings. together. lying below the water table. It was, planning permissions for mineral Conserving the site was therefore, suggested that this section, extraction also include restoration problematic for two reasons. Firstly, together with leaving the entire conditions which rarely make provision the gravel pit had planning Southerham Grey Pit, eastern face of the quarry exposed, for the retention of important permission for infill when it was East Sussex would be satisfactory on scientific geological features. New exposures notified as a SSSI and, secondly, grounds. The landfill company felt may, in consequence, prove very part of the SSSI incorporated an This chalk quarry contains the that this proposal would involve too difficult to conserve. Raising the unsightly exposed face of refuse only exposures of Chalk Marl in much loss of void space, but came profile of earth science conservation from an older landfill to the east. Britain (see Earth science conservation, back with the idea of extending the with planning authorities, the minerals When the owners applied to 28). The designation of the site as alternative section behind the eastern industry and landfill operators is, modify the existing planning an SSSI coincided with proposals to face as well (see plan). This therefore, of vital importance. permission to improve the landfill infill the quarry. This piece of ensured that all the critical Restoration plans must be sufficiently design, negotiation took place with serendipity allowed us to enter exposures would remain available, flexible to allow for the conservation of them and Hertfordshire County negotiations over the conservation of whilst allowing the original quarry to such sites, if required. Council to preserve the SSSI. It suitable sections at an early stage, be infilled. was, however, going to prove when designs could still be During a Public Inquiry in 1991, Boons Quarry, technically very difficult and would influenced. English Nature highlighted the importance of the site and stated Warwickshire that it would be best left alone, although an acceptable alternative The first time compensation was Smug Oak solution had been agreed. The paid to an operator for loss of tipping 000 Gravel 000 o o' 0 000 appeal has now been rejected (Earth space was at Boons Quarry. The ...Q... Q...-0-Sd East End ~0___.S2...Q... 0-0 ____ Green Till - 0 - 0 science conservation, 31, page 29).• - 0 - 0 o 0 - The conserved section at Boons Quarry - 0 - 0 - 0 - - 0 shows the unconformity between the ~ '-.------ ------ ------ Caldecote Volcanics and the Park Hill West Mill Gravel /o;:- .. T·o.-:-:o.~o-:-:-:------~ ~ A section through the new SSSI at Moor . . o. . ,0 . . 0 ..'o· 0 . 0 • • Member. Hill; the succession shows the diversion (Photo by Peter Wakely) of the Thames during the Ice Age. - 18 - 19 beginnings of a measure of hard controlled conditions, are worthy it could be claimed that money work. objectives for funded conservation would be well spent on work of this References Firstly, the National Coal Board work. type, and funding sought from Who would buy a saw no objections; secondly, the What we need to do is to identify sources such as Shell Better Britain, Duff, K.L., McKirdy, A.P. & contractor working the site had spare other Writhlingtons before they UK 2000 or the GA Curry Fund. Harley, M.J. 1985. New sites for capacity and, with the local planning disappear or are sanitised beneath Agencies like English Nature might old. A student's guide to the authority, agreed that a corner of the that geological blight - English grass accept that such schemes .could geology of the east Mendips. landscaped site could be used as a and our passion for lawns. It is deflect traffic away from their tender Nature Conservancy Council, conservation area; thirdly, the GA probably too la,te to save a Kent SSSIs. They could also prove safer Peterborough, 192 pp. coal tip? Curry Fund thought that £2,300 coalfield tip which might have held than many foreshores or cliff coasts, would be well spent on the physical the equivalent fauna and flora to that which equally attract the seekers Jarzembowski, EA 1985. Last Eric Robinson, Geologists' Association transfer of some 3,000 tons of plant found at Writhlington. Likewise, we after specimens. With good chance to collect on Lower and insect bearing material to the are much too late for the coal tips guidelines for management, for Writhlington tip. Earth science new site. Since then, days and around Bolton in Lancashire, which which Writhlington again offers a conservation, 22, 39-40. hen we look at local earth significance of what had been found weekends have been set aside for yielded a rich harvest of coal-balls to precedent, optimum returns could science conservation projects was immediately apparent to him. field trips and working party visits, Marie Stopes when she was a be won from a quite modest outlay Jarzembowski, EA 1987. The W in Britain over the past ten Within a year, the West Sussex combing and recovering ever more palaeobotanist. But these are, in of available money. occurrence and diversity of Coal years, there are few efforts which Geological Society had been joined plant and animal fossils which many ways, simply the 'cream' in a Until quite recently, it was Measure insects. Journal of the can take precedence over the success by the Harrow and Hillingdon continue to expand the diversity of Coal Measure world. What is too expected that the Writhlington site Geological Society of London, 144, of work at the Writhlington Geological Society and members of Coal Measure palaeoecology. In easily overlooked, however, is the would have to close by the end of 507-511. Geological Nature Reserve in Avon, the West London Wildlife Group, terms of numbers of species and less rich 'milk' - the more ordinary 1991. Happily, it is still in being and what it has come to represent. who had some experience of absolute numbers of specimens, the but still fossil bearing spoil. This and open to visiting parties by Jarzembowski, EA 1989. The full story, appropriately, has managing nature reserves of a tally is impressive (Jarzembowski, would be the kind of material which arrangement with Peter Austen Writhlington Geological Nature been told by Dr Ed jarzembowski different type. Together, under 1987, 1989) and continues to grow. could provide the fossils or minerals telephone (0323) 899237. It is Reserve. Proceedings of the (Jarzembowski, 1989), as it has Peter Austen as field organiser, a At regular intervals, the remaining which make all the difference as a Peter and Ed jarzembowski who Geologists' Association, 1aa, 219 largely been through his efforts that working party was set up to stockpile has been turned over by a first experience of field collecting for keep a watchful eye upon the work 234. the campaign has been sustained, a systematically collect and record jCB digger - a service provided by enthusiasts, young or old, as they set and the outcome of collecting, so new chapter in conservation history discoveries from the spoil heaps of the then Nature Conservancy out to join and enjoy our science. that the maximum scientific return written, and a pattern set which we the now abandoned colliery outside Council and now continued by It could be within the scope and can be won from the collective Applications for grants from the hope others can follow. the village of Writhlington. Work English Nature - ensuring profitable spirit of RIGS (Regionally Important effort. It is this good management GA Curry Fund should be made on His involvement began when was pressured by the simultaneous pickings for new parties visiting the Geological/geomorphological Sites) which is also good science - a an official form obtainable from the Carboniferous insect remains were moves to remove a local 'eyesore' site. In all these respects, the pattern which they can pass on to Geologists' Association, Burlington groups to seek out their own House, Piccadilly, London W1V discovered within Coal Measure and restore the landscape under the Writhlington working party have others seeking to exploit their local Writhlingtons where our geological 9AG (Telephone 071-434-9298; Roof Shales which, up to that point, impetus of that other form of produced an effective management st~k sheep might safely graze. Citing the options. them out oefore it is Fax 071-287-0280). had been renowned for their unique conservation which seeks to heal the structure, considerable customer example of the Writhlington scheme, too late! • flora - a discovery made by members scars of industry. It was recognised satisfaction, and a clear blueprint for Sculpture of a Coal Measure insect at Writhlington of the West Sussex Geological that there would be no problems if similar ventures in other parts of the Writhlington Geological Nature Reserve directions. School. (Photo by Ed Jarzembowski) Society and demonstrated by them at quantities of the waste material could country. Not least, they have made the Annual Reunion of the be transferred to another place where it abundantly clear that spoil heaps N Geologists' AssQciation (GA) in it could be picked over at leisure. of all kinds, which will only yield 1984. At the time, Ed was already What followed was, in some ways, a their riches after patient sifting under Bath/ an authority on fossil insects and the series of lucky coincidences, and the Lycopod stumped! Peter Austen's unsuccessful attempt to find fossil Rock store at Writhlington Geological Nature Reserve. animals. At (Photo by Ed Jarzembowski) (Photo by Ed Jarzembowski) 1 ~peasedownAt ~ ,)~StJOlm ~ v.~h","mb' r )~ HLINGTON 0( ~~IOGICAL I JJI NATURE ) { RESERVE • _ . Wellow Brook
A362-2 ~ -2.A\ Midsomer.~~t'~ ~ Nm'on ;" k1J'l A366 -- ';:;" ..Jt "')~r-- ~" Shep,on A362 ") <""m, Mol'"~ /' "'" 20- 21 in the early 1960s, and a site A incorporating the most important a otorways ca seriously sections was notified as an SSSI in 1972. At this stage, however, the site Massive sandstone -mprove you exposure did not include the separate exposures D ~...... -: Plary sandstone John Davies and Nick Pearce, Countryside Council for Wales at Ferryboat Inn. Sandstone with large Plans to link the two existing ti\,\'i] scale cross-bedding he extension of the M4 from Westphalian Llynfi and Rhondda beds sections of the M4 across the River South 1-0141------ Additional section exposed in west side of M4 road cutting only Sandstone with small Briton Ferry to Lon Lfls, near (part of the Lower Pennant Measures). Neath, between Briton Ferry to the east F\·\'-··'J'\\; -.. \. scale cross-bedding Swansea, sounds more like a The importance of the site was first and Lon Lfls to the west, appeared in d e fg B Fissile siltstone c ~ recipe for disaster than a benefit for recognised by Kelling (1964), who 1974. Three alternative routes for the I I Complete channel - fill sequence earth science conservation. In the path demonstrated a wide variety of classic link were considered by the Welsh Mudstone/shales of the proposed motorway sits the sedimentological features, including Office, and the then Nature A •D Underclay Earlswood Roundabout - Ferryboat Inn river channels, collapsed bank features, Conservancy Council was consulted at Coal SSSI, on the western bank of the River coal seams and seat earths typical of an early stage because all routes 8 Neath. Coal Measures deltas. These affected either the geological site or the I" "'1 Section lost by construction of S14 sliproad Conglomerate The Earlswood Roundabout site was exposures were created during the nearby Crymlyn Bog (then a proposed ,.. Section exposed in A48 road cuning 4 Section e>..-posed in east and west sides of M4 road cutting HMelange" selected as the best available section 1 construction of the A48 road bridge wetland SSSI). The final plans C'-$.~ •D C'<$", Q"q,,, Slide breccia through a deltaic facies of the mid- across the River Neath, at Briton Ferry, adopted for the link avoided the '1)'1)"'1 /}t;>/6 &'r il h wetland, and clipped about 5 percent B 6<1s", (l's(" "'t'/ EJ B Ripple lamination IKey for map B from the southern end of the geological El site, avoiding any serious damage. In Marked erosion Cl PropOSed extensloD to SSSI ~ B surface Present SSSI fact, it was recognised at this stage that N New exposures cre$ted a Locations on Figure B during construction the configuration of the new road, III Potential areas for parking combined with the topography of the Section ex-posed in east and wes[ sides of M4 road cuning -I --_. Poss.ible paths from parking areas North area, would hugely extend the o 10 20 30 40 50 metres ~ Existing exposure I I I I I I Proposed routes of exposures through the Llynfi and --- footpaths to view new t- exposures Rhondda beds. '< Graded embankment I-, Sections through the Lower Pennant Measures exposed in the road cutting at Earlswood Roundabout (modified and extended after I Around this time, the importance of ~ Approximate strike and dip of beds I Kelling, 1966). Lettering refers to map B. J... the quarry exposures at Ferryboat Inn a Locations on cross section N layout of the carriageways. I were recognised, and these were added I" It has become apparent that the I' to the site as part of the Geological I I Conservation Review programme. The construction of bridge supports at J... " h Fenyboat Inn may also provide " amended site was notified as an SSSI ,I additional exposures in the Llynfi Beds, 'I 945 in 1984. The Ferryboat Inn site sits 'I directly under the path of the bridge below the present level. Access to the :1'I quarry and minor crags in this area has ,I across the River Neath. Although : ~ 30° notification was too late to have any not been affected in any way. ,III -, bearing on the siting of the bridge Highway developments, admittedly 'I 'I supports, fortunately these do not 'I g The slip road onto the M4, showing a 'I\1 interfere with the principal exposures. strike section through the Lower ,I Pennant Measures. II Construction began on the present ,I (Photo by Stewart Campbell) ,I M4 extension during the spring of ,I II 1990. Excavations for the new ,I ,I I" motorway, to the west of the A48, cut ,I," a trench approximately 1 kilometre in 'I,y to _. ''<' length and up 30 metres in depth, ,~y.~ ,y exposing a thicker sequence of , y , y. sediments than was exposed in the "'\.~'<"·a existing site. The new motorway cutting, almost parallel to the old A48 Ferryboat lnn section, provides comparative sections. Dip sections linked by a curved, 200 metre long, strike section give excellent three dimensional information, vital in unravelling the depositional environments in these complex delta systems. These new sections have already received the attentions of research sedimentologists (Jones and Hartley, 1992). Additionally, the southern end of the new motorway cutting exposes a succession below that lOOm in the A48 cuttings. These new • Pnsc:nl M4 o I _Tnmkroad 730 exposures easily compensate for the Scale loss of the small portion at the southern Maps showing (A) the Neath Estuary, and (B) the new road layout at Earlswood end of the A48 section, which has also Looking north along the M4 road cutting, the steep exposures on the east side are proposed for Inclusion in an extended SSSI. Roundabout. Lettering refers to locations on the cross sections. been improved by alterations to the (Photo by Stewart Campbell) -22 23- of a grander nature, in the USA have Welsh Office by the Countryside stepped and stable faces, unlike the been made accessible to the general Council for Wales, oudining the partially unstable and graded exposures public for educational purposes, with necessary access to enable the to the west of the new carriageway, Geology and the public in Glasgow the provision of parking, footpaths, educational potential of the site to be should require linle maintenance, and viewing platforms and interpretative realised. Suitable parking is available, now provide the best exposures Neil Clark, Hunterian Museum, University of Glasgow information (Anon, 1992). The new and the construction of footpaths and tlu'ough these strata anywhere in the exposures along the M4 present an erection of fencing would be a simple British Isles. ideal opportunity for site enhancements maner, particularly whilst construction he extent of the newsworthy. Perhaps next of this type to be carried out in the of the motof\vay is still in progress. untapped interest in year Tex Rex will have to United Kingdom. They would provide Once consu'uction work has been References T geological issues is parachute into George a valuable teaching resource in the completed, it is proposed to include the truly remarkable. For two Square to gain any press Swansea area and may set a precedent I newly created exposures on the curved Anon. 1992. An open airtextbook: years now, a week of geology interest! Although Tex Rex for future developments elsewhere. access road and on the eastern side of lessons in stone. National Geographic, has been provided in was a gimmick, it was Proposals have been submined to the the M4 within the SSSI. These steep, 181 (6). Glasgow to allow people to important that the gimmick find out about the subject did not detract from the The lowest exposures in the newly proposed 5551 occur at the cusp between the slip Jones, JA & Hartley, A.J. 1992. road and the main carriageway of the new M4. These new cuttings provide excellent Reservoir characteristics of abraidplain and how it affects them. science, but added to it. In strike and dip sections, enabling detailed sedimentological studies to be conducted depositional system: the Upper Were it not for the financial that respect, I hope that it in this complex, deltaic succession. Carboniferous Pennant Sandstone of assistance and enthusiasm of K.ldOe'-.':' was successful. (Photo by Stewart Campbell) South Wales. In: North, C.P. & Prosser, the Geological Society of The reason for choosing D.J. (eds.) Reservoir characterisation of Glasgow and the help the Dome of Discovery as a fluvial and aeolian reservoirs. Special provided by Professor B venue was due to it being the Publication of the Geological Society (in Leake, the project would not only scientific based press). have got off the ground. interactive exhibition in Many amateur collectors, Tex Rex • the public face of the author. Glasgow. The interactive Kelling, G. 1964. Sediment transport in (Photo copyright Hunterian Museum) active and passive, of rocks, medium is the best method part of the Lower Pennant Measures of South Wales. In: Van Straaten, L. (ed.) crystals and fossils were given the geological phenomena. of conveying basic scientific principles Developments in sedimentology, 1: deltaic opportunity of discovering what In 1992, a different market was in a fun atmosphere. It makes people and shallow marine deposits. Amsterdam, treasures they had, and were targeted as a trial. The week at the enjoy and appreciate science more 177-184. encouraged to discover more about Dome of Discovery was organised to when they come up against it in other their finds. The weeks, both in 1991 coincide with the last week of the contexts. It is important that a Kelling, G. 1965. Summer (1964) field and 1992, were, however, not without school term in June. For the second foundation of geological meeting in South Wales. Proceedings of their problems - not, I hasten to add, year running, the Dome welcomed understanding is presented and built the Geologists' Association, 76, 463-495. due to those helping nor those over 1,500 visitors. Again Mr Stan on in this fun environment, rather visiting, but those who did not. Wood gave... the opening talks on the than force feeding difficult concepts initiatives to conserve geological features, In its first year, Geology Week Saturday, but this time I had without the basics. One aspect of The Malvern International Conference on will be discussed. welcomed over 1,500 people through organised free evening talks at the science that I avoided was the Geological and Landscape ConselVation the doors of the Glasgow Dome of university during the week to target darkened room with slides and Theme 4 Site conservation and Discovery - the interactive science families. At the Dome, Tex Rex gave overheads, as I feel that too many Great Malvern, UK, 17-24 July 1993 public awareness centre at the South Rotunda. The 26 talks on dinosaurs, their diet, lecturers use these to hide behind. If A unique event Theme 1 Conservation and week was organised during July, after extinction and parallels \-vith life scientists want to promote their sustainable development Protecting a site from destruction is The 'Malvern Conference' will focus on one thing, but it is essential to explore schools had finished, to target the today, and Dr G Currie gave three science in the public arena, they will the need to conserve the geological and What lessons are to be learnt from how a site can be brought to life and family market. Talks were given four talks on the carbon cycle. Tex Rex is have to practice the soap box geomorphological riches of the Earth. the application of this model to issues become a feature valued by members of times a day, with a different talk each actually myself dressed in a dinosaur approach, with only basic props. The The aim is to bring together geologists such as geological consef\'ation and the the public. The conference will discuss day. costume. concept of a 'feelie' in public and geomorphologists, conservationists, winning of geological raw materials? how a site can be explained to visitors so The week went well, with help Sponsorship was greater this year, demonstrations is an important one land managers, developers, and The necessary technology - both 'low that, when they leave, they will be from Glasgow University's with grants from COPUS people relate more to concepts if they representatives from the voluntary sector tech' and 'high-tech' - available to bridge convinced of its heritage importance. Departments of Geology and Applied (Committee on the Public can touch or feel objects relating to from all over the world to discuss and the gap between economic and More vvidely, the need to persuade the Geology and Hunterian Museum, the Understanding of Science) of £3,000 that concept. debate issues relating to geological and conservation requirements will be general public of the importance of British Geological Survey and the Geological Society of The pressures of time, frustration, landscape conservation. explored. conserving our geological heritage will be (Edinburgh), and sponsorship of Glasgow of £1,000 allowing more anxiety, and absent volunteers were £1 ,000 from the Geological Society exhibits to be developed. As the The conference will offer lectures, Theme 2 Landscape conservation addressed. too much for one person to carry this discussion and poster sessions, and of Glasgow. Many members of the COPUS grant did not arrive until late year, and a different tack will have to An international convention exhibitions by sponsors. A varied choice The National Park is one of the society, and some university students, on, it was not possible to build all the be taken in the future. Despite being of field trips in England and Wales is longest established and most widely A clUcial objective of the conference devoted a lot of time to discuss exhibits in time. The remainder of completely exhausted, and with a planned, carefully tailored to reflect the accepted models for conserving naturally will be to agree the basis for an geology with the public and help the money will be used to build next certain disappointment, I cannot say content of the discussion sessions. A beautiful areas rich in wildlife. The international convention to conserve the them use the interactive exhibits. Mr year's exhibits. The extra that the week was not a success. It is programme of entertainments, and an success of the National Park as a means world's most outstanding geological sites Stan Wood gave a series of talks on sponsorship allowed me to expand very rewarding to see the expressions accompanying persons' programme, will of landscape conservation across the and landscapes. The criteria which the first day, and Dr J MacDonald, the project to produce fact sheets, T of interest and concentration on the ensure that delegates also get an world, and other alternative mechanisms, might be used in identifying such sites, Professor M Russell, Dr D Weedon shirts and posters, and also to run a faces of children and adults alike opportunity to relax. The intention is to will be examined. and ways of developing the proposal, gave talks on volcanoes, the origins of competition. when confronted by geology. I hope create an informal and friendly Theme 3 Local conservation and will be discussed and debated. life, and geological processes To make a venture such as that future Geology Weeks will atmosphere against the beautiful and community initiatives Further information respectively. I gave talks on two days Geology Week more successful, it will continue to stimulate interest in the - one on gold panning and another be necessary to get more publicity. geological sciences amongst the geologically significant landscape of the Across much of the world, the most For further information please contact on general geology. Displays The newspapers did not cover the public of Glasgow and Scotland as a Malvern Hills. successful, and indeed sometimes the Margaret Phillips, The Company, St included some interactive earthquake story at all, despite press releases whole, and that other organisations only, geological conservation efforts are John's Innovation Centre, Cowley Road, The themes of the conference exhibits, rocks under microscopes, from Glasgow University and the will follow the lead and have their locally based and of a voluntary nature. Cambridge CB4 4WS, UK sedimentary processes, crystal growth, Dome of Discovery. For some own events organised for the week The work of the conference will Community goodwill, and how it can be Telephone +44 (0) 223421124; polarised light and a variety of other reason, geology seems not to· be next year. • centre on four themes. tapped and channelled into practical Fax +44 (0) 223 421158. 24- 25 raised concerrling the visual impact of i the quarry and the spoil produced, e hidden dep 5 of geology ossils for prof . the possible disturbance to local archaeological features, and the loss Lindsay Carter, Bushfield Community School, Peterborough (fourth year pupil) of local heritage. In addition to When I said that I wanted to be a level, and in degree courses at group. They can help with the these, there were worries that the 'trainee geologist' for my school work colleges and universities. However, maintenance and improvement of the Gilwern Hill controversy fossil reserves would become experience, I didn't really know what geology, as a separate subject, is local sites, which might include exhausted, and that such a project geology involved. I had a general taught in only a very small minority clearing away vegetation and debris. Kathy Kennedy, S:;0untryside Council for Wales would set a precedent for similar idea that geologists looked at of Britain's schools - for example, in Children from schools in Barnsley activities elsewhere. Articles information from the Earth's surface Cambridgeshire only one out of 47 have been involved, along with the appeared in both local and national and core, but nothing more detailed. secondary schools teaches the subject. Yorkshire Brick Company, with a n December 1991, Powys Builth Wells and the village of newspapers, and the ethics of I soon found out that it's a far more project to conserve a site in their area. County Council was Llandegley. This distinctive commercial gain from our fossil Is there a better way of teaching complex subject than I, or most There have been massive approached by a private landform is directly related to the record were questioned. geology in schools? people, realise - covering plate contributions from local school company interested in local geology, which comprises an Aware of the political sensitivity of tectonics, fossils and minerals, coastal Field trips to sites, small projects, children, who helped to plant shrubs, discussing the feasibility of Ordovician inlier surrounded by rocks this proposal, CCW carried out a processes and much more. videos and art work can all make clean up rock faces and generally opening up a disused farm quarry at of Silurian age. This inlier is detailed assessment of the likely The project that I took on during geology more interesting in schools. conserve the site, which exposes a Gilwern Hill, in Radnorshire, for the dominated by shale and mudstone, impacts of the fossil quarry. A my three weeks in English Nature's Pupils can learn about the geology of rock face containing the 'Mansfield commercial extraction of trilobite with intrusive igneous keratophyte, landscape study was undertaken and Earth Science Branch was quite a their local area. In the Peak District, Marine Band' - a layer of fossil fossils. Subsequently, in April 1992, andesite and dolerite occurring in site meetings were arranged with the challenge. I looked at what school for example, the National Stone bearing clay laid down when Barnsley an application for full planning smaller quantities. Gilwern Hill itself prospective developers. children of my age are taught about Cenu'e describes the local interest and was part of an equatorial rain forest permission, under the Town and is dominated by ashy sandstones of CCW concluded that, whilst geology, and what would make the finds from that area. Their main about 310 million years ago. An Counu'y Planning Act 1990, was Llanvirn age (about 470 million years Gilwern Quarry is of regional subject more exciting and interesting visitors are schools, and a museum at information board nearby, put up by submitted for this activity. This is old). These sandstones are scientific interest, it is not of national enough for them to take it up as a the centre explains how the local the brick company, is a valuable believed to be the first planning exceptionally rich in the trilobite or international significance. career. rocks and landscape were formed. teaching aid, giving details of the application of its kind in England and Ogyginus corndensis. Also present are Therefore, it is not, at present, There is a trail with information regional geology. This kind of Wales. Naturally, such a proposal the trinucleids Bettonia charnberlaini sufficiently important to merit What is taught in today's boards explaining the site, which was information board could be put up at has attracted the attention of both and Trinucleus abruptus. The site has statutory protection as an SSSI. schools that relates to geology? once a coral reef under a tropical sea. a range of different sites to help local people and the wider geological been studied for some years by Dr Furthermore, on viewing the site, the All school pupils up to the age of Another example of a site for a field children grasp geological concepts. commurlity. Peter Sheldon of the Open eye is drawn to the surrounding 16 are now taught geology in both trip is Magpie Mine in Derbyshire. Visits to museums can add Gilwern Hill forms part of a chain University. It is visited by local fossil unenclosed commonland, rather than science and geography courses. The This abandoned mine holds minerals character to a taught course. of hills running bet\veen the town of collectors and by geologists from to the quarry. The nearest road is science course contains components such as calcite and galena in its spoil Museums are now trying to make further afield. It is a over a kilometre away. It is, of geology and other important tips, and contains many their exhibits match the message that 'particularly us'eful locality therefore, unlikely that the fossil sciences, such as meteorology and archaeological interests too. they want to put across. By using for teaching purposes. extraction site would prove to be astronomy. Before this, the vast Collecting minerals and fossils from colour, fewer objects and clear written The quarry is owned visually intrusive. Consultation with majority of Britain's children had site visits, and researching your finds information, school children are ~~::!<:I by a local farmer. He geologists who had a knowledge of been taught that there were only three can be an interesting and rewarding helped to learn about geology. intends to lease the area the site confirmed that the trilobite important sciences - physics, way of approaching geology. Information on the Ice Age, of land within which beds were relatively extensive, and chemistry and biology. With the A lot of sites could be lost in the dinosaurs, volcanoes, and the Gilwern Quarry is that this particular application would introduction of the National future as there are many competing stratigraphic column are subjects situated to the fossil note exhaust the fossil resource. Curriculum (Education Reform Act uses for them. The need for site which I feel children find interesting "-. extractors. Access to the As a result, no reasonable grounds 1988), that was changed. The conservation should, therefore, be and absorbing. site is via a track owned existed for objecting to the planning science curriculum has been widened discussed in schools. Possible Official groups are involving by another landowner. application. The provisos that were and provides exciting new challenges subjects include studies of how themselves in the promotion of There is a public attached to the response from CCW and opportunities, but also major threats such as landfill and misuse geology to help children get a much bridleway runrling to the should ensure that conditions for problems -for instance, supplying can result in the loss of sites, and how better hold on what the subject is all west of the quarry. As palaeontological research in the teachers that have some geological the degradation of certain features about. To this end the Geologists' Gihvern Quarry is located quarry are, if anything, improved. expertise is difficult. may be accelerated by visitors. Association and WATCH, the on private land, visitor Legal access to the site is to be The basics of geology are, Teachers can involve pupils in site wildlife and environmental club for access in the past has allowed by permit. This will ensure therefore, taught as part of the conservation by getting them working young people, have got together to been rather ad hoc, by tl1at visits are monitored, and that National Curriculum. This can then with a RIGS (Regionally Important form a club called ROCKWATCH, kind permission of the notable fossil finds are recorded and be taken further through study at A- GeologicaJJgeomorphological Sites) which was recently launched to owner or by trespass curated. The access permit, and an attract young people into geology. from the nearby indemnification system, is currently Through clubs like bridle\vay. being negotiated. It is likely that the ROCKWATCH and the new Shortly after the system will be administered by CC\'\7 emphasis on geology in the submission of the in the first instance, although it is curriculum, I feel that more children planning application, the hoped that responsibility will will want to take up geology as an Countryside Council for eventually be taken on by me local interest or as a career. The world's Wales (CCW) was RIGS group, once Gilwern Hill has future is our future. With the consulted on the proposal been declared a Regionally Important environment and everything that is and sought the opinion of Geological Site. Finally, on connected \Vith it being of popular relevant site experts. By completion of the work, a 10 metre concern, maybe an understanding of this time, some high final face is to be left. This will geology will be an awakening for all.• controversy had already provide both strike and dip sections, Ogyginus corndensis from Gilwern Quarry. been generated as to its and should clearly reveal an extensive A covered information board gives (Photo by Peter Sheldon) suitability. Doubts were lithological and stratigraphic record. details of the geology around Barnsley. (Photo by Tom Moat) 26 27 in terms of global resource and real world, with its sharp regional Mam Tor - an apology protected marine sites is essential. Bookreview through the efficiency of the natural variations in resource, environment, English Nature believes that more and human environment to process economic wealth, social development In the article on Mam Tor in Earth marine nature reserves are needed, Beyond the Limits: Global Collapse waste and, more importantly, and, most importantly, political will. I science conservation, 30, page 27, and that a marine consultation area or a Sustainable Future pollutants. From this foundation, the have no doubt that this book will ownership of the site was erroneously system should be developed. This ascribed to the Peak Park, rather than by Donella H. Meadows, Dennis L. authors examine the interaction of succeed in raising public awareness, will be the role of the marine task the National Trust. We apologise to Meadows and Jorgen Randers, 1992, these two elements in a simple but I believe it contains little which group.• the Trust for the oversight and for any Earthscan, London, 320pp. ISBN 1 computer driven model of the global will stimulate action on the scale offence caused as a result of this 85383-131-X, paperback, £9.95. economic system, known as 'World necessary to tackle the central Clean up at Micklefield 3'. World 3 predicts that the global problem that global population may inaccuracy.. ' Quarry Twenty years ago, the Club of population will overshoot the capacity soon exceed the resources available to Rome published The Limits to Growth of the planet early in the 21 st Century support it. Blasted Rocks! This unrivalled exposure of the which sounded the first loud and clear and that the consequence will be an As a natural scientist, I also find High explosives don't normally Hampole Beds, in the Magnesian warning that current growth trends uncontrolled collapse in both the work slightly disappointing since it spring to mind as the ideal aid to site Limestone of Yorkshire, has had could not continue indefinitely. It population and economic wealth. is written from a human or economic conservation, but that's what English more than its share of comings and caused immense controversy and sold The validity of this conclusion is perspective and does not, therefore, Nature and Wimpey Minerals used at goings since it was first notified as an 9,000,000 copies in 29 languages. tested by a series of different model consider the environmental or natural a semi-active limestone quarry in SSSI in 1969. Initially saved by the Now its three principal authors runs or simulations, each with a system and the full implications of Avon. Hyatts Wood Quarry, a local council from 'landscaping' have written Beyond the Limits, the different set of assumptions about environmental change. Within World Regionally Important Geological Site (infilling), following pleas from sequel. The message within this book future resources, technologies and 3, the environment is a static element, (RIGS) near Nailsea, was selected as members of the then Institute of is clear - we are faced with a rates of production. In all of these but in reality environmental change the ideal site to pioneer a new Geological Sciences and Nature catastrophic collapse in the global scenarios, the global system is still could have a significant effect on both application of an old engineering Conservancy, it was always prone to economic system if action is not taken subject to uncontrolled collapse. population and production. technique known as smooth blasting. encroaching fill, and the key face has Denys Smith discussing the conservation now. They draw hope, however, from Despite these reservations, this This blasting method has long been had to be cleared on two previous of Micklefield Quarry with children from It examines the consequences of a the local school. the response of the global community work appears both convincing and used by road engineers to leave stable occasions. (Photo copyright Yorkshire Post Newspapers system that exceeds or overshoots the to the problem of ozone depletion honest. No claims are made beyond road cuttings which won't drop rocks The latest episode in this Lld) energy or resources which sustain it. and use it as an example of how the scope or aim of the model, and all on passing motorists. In hard rock continuing saga started when a The authors argue that a system liable change can be achieved. This the main assumptions upon which it quarries, this technique will leave routine inspection visit late in 1991 to 'overshoot' contains three intrinsic discussion forms the starting point for is based are clearly stated. The clearer geological exposures, which are revealed that recent sedimentation RIGS support in elements - firstly, rapid growth or an investigation of how the global authors have taken a refreshingly more accessible and safer for future had once again almost obscured the England motion; secondly, the presence of system can be brought under control open and clear sighted approach, and examination by geologists and highly significant Hampole distinct limits or barriers to that and a move made towards a the volume contains a clear, logical educationalists. English Nature hopes Discontinuity - this time a clast In the last issue of Earth science growth; and finally, a lack of control sustainable future. and persuasive argument, which you that smooth blasting will soon be supported heterogeneous mixture of conservation, the role of the RIGS or vision which ensures that the World 3 predicts that a sustainable cannot ignore. accepted by quarry companies garden ref1J~e and extinct Mini tyres Support Officer was outlined. The signals of impending disaster are future can be achieved by a rapid In summary, the authors have nationally as an integral tool in was the main cause of the trouble. officer, Carol Graham, is now in-post, distorted, and ignored. control on both population and succeeded in producing a well written designing conservation based quarry Judicious enquiries revealed local having joined the staff on the Royal They believe that the global system industrial grO\\'th. Only by taking and accessible account of a complex afteruse schemes.• concern about the renewed tipping, a Society for Nature Conservation, the contains all three of these elements such radical action can global piece of research which builds concern felt strongly by Councillor Wildlife Trusts Partnership, in late and examine the consequence of a overshoot and collapse be avoided. significantly upon that outlined in The Campaign for a living Andrew Dunne \-vho speedily July. 'global overshoo.r'. The work concludes with a Limits to Growth over 20 years ago. mobilized local opinion and set about When making contact with all of The authors first demonstrate that description of such a utopian society In short, this is essential reading for coast organising a new clearance of the site. England's RIGS groups, by way of a both population and economic output and warns against complacency. all those interested in the long term English Nature successfully Andrew's efforts reached a climax personal introduction, it became have grown exponentially for several In general, I found it a very future of our society and planet. launched its 'Campaign for a living on 6 May 1992, when he was joined increasingly apparent that a key, but hundred years and that such growth interesting and thought provoking coast' on 14 October. The campaign at the site by an enthusiastic group hitherto unrecognised, function of the is central to our current socio read. Its chief failure, however, is in represents a major initiative to from the British Trust for post should be to provide economic system. They then review making a successful transition from Matthew Bennett, improve the conservation of Conservation Volunteers, and by encouragement, advice and support on the natural limits to that growth, both the computer based discussion to the University ofGreenwich England's maritime zone - one of the staff and pupils from Micklefield a one-to-one basis, particularly to the most seriously damaged parts of our Junior and Infants School. A united less confident groups. 1992, was presented to Dr R J King. For more than 50 years, Bob natural environment. English Nature onslaught soon led to the To reinforce this service, and to ers Bob King first became fascinated by worked to assemble one of the most has set up three task groups to tackle reappearance of the Hampole Beds avoid duplication of effort and rocks as a result of his father's extensive and finest contemporary the main problem areas. and the underlying Hampole mistakes, a 'RIGS starter pack' is interest in natural history. As a lad, collections of British minerals, which A coastal group are advocating the Discontinuity, and to the filling of a being produced. The pack, which The Russell Medial he took enquiry specimens to now forms the core of the collection use of natural defences and new large skip that had kindly been should be available in January 1993, Leicester Museum, where he was at the National Museum of Wales in techniques, such as managed retreat, provided by Leeds City Council. will provide guidance on the survey, inspired by the late H H Gregory. Cardiff. A protege of the late Sir instead of hard engineering options, The site has now been adopted by recording, selection and notification of The Russell Society celebrated its Under Gregory's direction, he began Arthur Russell, he founded the to minimise environmental damage the school, and its condition \'V'ill be sites - much of which will be based on 20th anniversary this year by reading geology at London Russell Society, and was the first and stem the current loss of valuable monitored regularly. An illustrated the experiences of the more developed establishing a new international award University. He joined the army in editor of its journal. Bob is presently coastal habitats. interpretative information board groups. - the Russell Medal. The medal will 1941, and upon returning home to curator of the John Moor An estuaries group are promoting prepared by Leeds City Council, in Additionally, a RIGS newsletter, be presented on an occasional basis to his farming roots, still dealt with Countryside Museum in Tewkesbury, comprehensive management of conjunction with English Nature, Exposure, will provide an effective individuals judged by the society to enquiry specimens passed to him at where he is building a second estuarial activity, and aim to facilitate from information supplied by Denys means of communication between have given outstanding service in the the local museum. Bob later joined collection of minerals. the production of management plans Smith (the author of this article) has groups and an excellent medium for field of mineralogy. The society is a the Department of Geology at As Dr R F Symes of the Natural for 80 percent by area of England's been erected - and paid for by the delivering earth science conservation to body of amateur and professional Leicester University, playing a major History Museum and President of the 80 estuaries by the end of the City Council. Although it doesn't the wider conservation community. mineralogists which encourages the part in the subsequent success and Russell Society said when presenting decade. necessarily follow that tipping Mini The first issue was published in study, recording and conservation of development of that institution, where the medal to Bob King "there really If marine conservation is to catch tyres onto an SSSI will always result December. mineralogical sites and material. he remained on the staff for over 30 could be no finer recipient in the first up with its terrestrial counterpart, the in an overall improvement, on this If you would like further The first award, made in August years. year of this award".• creation of a national network of occasion it certainly had that effect.• information about RIGS in England, -28 29- or wish to contribute an article to these classic and internationally away with it. diverting the River Feshie. Since such could be mitigated if the river were Exposure, please contact Carol renowned sites, but have to balance I have been involved in a study of proposals had wide reaching allowed to develop a natural course Graham, RIGS Support Officer, this with the needs of sheep farming these spectacularly well preserved implications, not only for the within a \vide, defined flow corridor. RSNC The Wildlife Trusts and managing a red deer herd for shrimps during the course of my geomorphology of the alluvial fan at Overall, the full report from IOH, Flood Partnership, The Green, Witham sporting income. The most sensitive doctoral pursuits. I am deeply upset at the Spey-Feshie confluence, but also Alleviation in Upper Strathspey: Park, Waterside South, Lincoln LN5 time of year in the estate's calendar is the blatant manner in which this rape for internationally important biological Modelling and Environment Study, 7]R. Telephone (0522) 544400; Fax the stag season and the start of the of our natural heritage has taken place. ecological interests in the River Spey identified a range of moderate to severe (0522) 511616.• hind season, which runs from 1 July to Is there no way to preserve and protect and Insh Marshes SSSI, a impacts on the conservation interests of the end of October. Responsible our valued sites. for future scientists multidisciplinary study was the region from the proposals. The RIGS· Lothian takes access outside this period by visitors is with a new technique or a new commissioned from the Institute of results of this work were reported at a up the challenge much preferred. Should you be approach? I hope we can find an Hydrology (lOH) to assess the impacts. public meeting and, currently, details of planning to lead a geological party to answer soon which will put a stop to As part of this work, Drs Werritty and a revised scheme are awaited from the Lothian Regional Council convened Mull, it would be appreciated if you such activities. This kind of Brazier undertook to assess the landowners. a meeting to discuss setting up a could telephone the estate's factor at destruction makes it more difficult for geomorphological implications. Their RIGS scheme for the area. All four the West Highland Estates' office on the serious amateur, or honest report developed the work of the earlier Pant-y-lIyn error district councils, along with the British (0631) 62218. By complying with professional, to discover the wonders study and concluded that regrading the Readers of Earth science conservation, Geological Survey, Edinburgh these wishes, your return will always of our geological heritage." River Spey would be the least damaging 31 may have spotted the scarcity of Geological Society, Scottish Wildlife be welcome on Mull. option to the geomorphological interest ornament in Figure 2 (page 4) of the Trust and Scottish Natural Heritage, Feshie update of the Feshie fan. Channelisation and article entitled Pant-y-llyn - the first were represented at the inaugural Rape of our natural Since the last account in Earth diversion of the River Feshie would be Welsh turlough? The figure is repro meeting, which was chaired by Dr J science conservation) 29, Dr Alan significantly more damaging, but this duced below in its complete form. Sheldon (Lothian Regional Council's heritage Werritty and Dr Vanessa Brazier from Simplified geology of the Pant-y-lIyn area. Ecologist). A considerable degree of Neil Clark from the Hunterian the University of St Andrews have 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 enthusiasm was shown for the RIGS Museum, University of Glasgow, completed a commissioned research 0 0 0\ 0 0 concept by all concerned. It was 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 writes of an alarming discovery made report entitled The Geom01phology, ~~ 0 agreed that recognition of important during a recent visit to the East Devastation of the Chinese Bay Shrimp Conservation and lvfanagenzent of the 0 0 0 \~ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Bed. sites in local plans is essential and that Lothian coast. River Feshie SSSI. This report is based 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (Photo by Neil Clark) o \t 0 quality control to ensure an acceptable "Recently, I had occasion to visit on a thorough audit and mapping of 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 \..n1". standard must be an integral part of the scenic coastline between the geomorphology of the site and 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0r 0 0 0 0 August 1992. One track had large \~ the process. So RIGS are spreading Yellowcraigs and Gullane, East provides a framework for a 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 treads similar to that of the rear wheel o \ 0 b in Scotland and we are now looking Lothian. My interest in this area was of a tractor, or digger. The other constructive and practical approach to 0 0 0 0 0 0 for a second region to take up the o 0\, not confined solely to the aesthetics of treads were from a narrow wheel its management. 0 ~I 0 0 0 0 0 challenge. the vista, however, but draws also on similar to that of a trailer, or the front The main body of the report specific scientific endeavours. The wheel of a tractor. It was not until I contains an evaluation of the A plea on behalf of the unique early Carboniferous Cheese noticed the devastation at the shrimp environmental impact of a range of Ben More Estate Bay Shrimp Bed is in an SSSI and bed that I guessed the link. Someone actual and potential threats to the crops out on the foreshore here. The had used a digger to remove the bed, geomorphology, and recommendations .. - Isle of Mull N bed has now gone. The overlying and possibly another vehicle to carry for management that are compatible The Ben More Estate on the Isle of strata have been ripped off and the remains away. The professional with effective conservation of the Mull, lying between Loch na Keal, discarded, and over 10 square metres approach to the removal of the rock scientific interest. The conservation Loch Ba and Glen More, boasts a of the shrimp bed removed. caused me to worry that perhaps value of particular features and areas range of sites of international Tyre tracks in the sand are a similar activities were in progress at within the SSSI are reviewed. The importance for geology. There are strange occurrence on the beaches other supposedly protected local sites. important concept of geomorphological four SSSIs wholly or partly within the here. I noted these on my walk on 8 Thankfully, it appears that only this sensitivity is developed and provides estate's marches. These are Ben site has been destroyed. the basis for assessing impacts on the site. The sensitivity of a More-Scarisdale, Gribun Shore and I have learned recently that a small v Crags, Cruach Choiredail and Allt amphibian was discovered in a loose geomorphological system is its capacity ~'"~~'-- Molach. fragment of the shrimp bed by an to \vithstand externally imposed ~~c~ There are several types of igneous amateur collector. Immediately, much change. The sensitivity of active LCM intrusion on the estate, of which the became clear. The site had obviously components of the site are assessed in ~ LCM Loch Ba felsite ring-dyke is the most been attacked in the hope of terms of the predicted impacts that \ important. This intrusion was the first discovering another, or more, of these human activities have on water and LCM \ LCM and most perfectly preserved ring-dyke rare animals. The problem of sediment discharges and, therefore, on \ to be recognised and represents an discovering the perpetrator of this act channel behaviour. Tables of probable internationally established standard of vandalism remains a difficult one. responses to potentially damaging Carboniferous Devonian example. Subsequently, during the Ice operations are presented for both ~ Conglomerates, sandstones Was it an unscrupulous professional? I LCM I Coals and shales Age, erosion associated with glaciers Was it an over enthusiastic amateur? active systems and relict landforms. Lower Coal ~ and siltstones Conservation management strategies Measures ... which covered the Mull area produced We may yet find an answer. One { I LCM I Sandstones ('Farewell Rock') a series of channels and hollows in the thing is clear, whoever it was knew are evaluated for different parts of the basalt on the shores of Loch na Keal. exactly where to dig and how to clear site and attempt to reconcile hazard 'Middle Shales' Hercynian faults These structures, known as 'p-forms', the site efficiently. mitigation and effective conservation. Millstone {D " Following completion of the report, Grit Series § are the best known examples of their Luckily, there is a witness who may 'Basal Grit' o Pant-y-llyn 'turlough' type in Britain. be able to help further. There are revised proposals were tabled to The estate's owners are pleased to several other lines of investigation alleviate the flood hazard at the River 'i\i!.ain Limestones' ~ Quarries have geologists and others to visit which will be followed up also, but Spey-Feshie confluence, and up valley Limestone along the River Spey. These involved Series {D The southern flanks of Ben More from unscrupulous individuals cannot be 'Lower Limestone Shales' the Coladoir River. allowed to destroy scientifically two options - regrading and realigning (Photo by Patrick Cashman) valuable and irreplaceable sites and get the River Spey, or channelisation and -30 -31