An Application to Expand the Marble Arch European Geopark on an International Basis into County in the Republic of .

(Application submitted as a joint co-operative venture by both District Council in and Cavan County Council in the )

Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org An Application to Expand the European Geopark on an International Basis into in the Republic of Ireland.

(Application submitted as a joint co-operative venture by both Fermanagh District Council in Northern Ireland and Cavan County Council in the Republic of Ireland)

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Contents

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A. Marble Arch Caves European Geopark- Introduction 1 A.1. Name of the Region 1 A.2. Location 1 A.3. Description of the Proposed Expanded Marble Arch Caves European Geopark 1 A.4. Description of Management Partners 2 A.5. Marble Arch Caves European Geopark Organisation 2 A.6. Enclosures 2

B. Scientific Description of the European Geopark Territory 3 B.1. Introduction 3 B.2. Full Geological Description of the Area 3 B.3. List and Description of the Geological Sites 9 B.4. Details on the Interest and International, National or Regional Significance of these Sites 9 B.5. Current or Potential Pressure on the Geopark and these Sites 10 B.6. Current status in Terms of Protection of the Sites 10 B.7. Site Management Data 12 B.8. List and Description of Non-geological Sites 12

C. Arguments for Nominating the Region as a European Geopark 13 C.1. Analysis of the Region’s Economically Sustainable Geotourism 13

D. Management Structure 14 D.1. Marble Arch Caves European Geopark 14 D.2. Strategic Participants 15 D.3. Supporting Organisations 15

E. Description of Existing Geological Institutions and Activities 17 E.1. Geological Organisations 17 E.2. Educational and Scientific Activities 17 E.3. Marketing, Public Relations and Community Integration 24

F. Policies for the Protection, Enhancement and Economic Development of the Geological Heritage 25 F.1. Policies for the Protection, Enhancement and Economic Development of the Geological Heritage 25

G. General Information on the Territory 26 G.1. Economic Activity 26 G.2. Provision for the Protection of the Region 27 G.3. Analysis of the present status of protection of the region 27 G.4. Existing Facilities 27 G.5. Future Facilities Planned 27

H. Conclusion 29

Appendix 1 Complete Site List Appendix 2 Designations Appendix 3 Panels and Facilities Appendix 4 Publications Appendix 5 Map of Earth Science Review Sites (ESCR) within the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark in Appendix 6 List of the Irish Geological Heritage Sites for the Geopark in County Cavan Appendix 7 See Appendix 7 file on disc Appendix 8 Interpretative Panels at Proposed Geopark Sites in County Cavan Appendix 9 Finance

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A Marble Arch Caves European Geopark - Introduction

A1 Name of the region This proposed expansion phase of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark falls within the administrative boundaries of Fermanagh District Council in Northern Ireland and Cavan County Council in the Republic of Ireland.

A2 Location The Marble Arch Caves European Geopark is located in the northwest of the island of Ireland, approximately 2 hours drive west from and 2 hours drive northwest from . The international between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland forms the southern boundary of the existing Geopark and is also the boundary between the respective counties of Fermanagh and Cavan. The joint, respective geographical boundaries of both Fermanagh and Cavan are also the respective administration boundaries for both Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council. Maps are shown in Figures A2.1 to A2.2.

It should be noted that, unlike most other European countries, the public do not have the right to walk on private land in either Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland due to the specific public access and trespass laws that exist in both countries. The Councils must avoid giving the impression that some private land is included in the Geopark without the owners’ permission as this would create public resentment against the Geopark by including large areas of private land within it. Therefore, in accordance with the provision agreed by both UNESCO and the European Geoparks Network in relation to the September 2007 expansion of the Geopark within Fermanagh, a notional boundary encompassing all the Geopark sites in County Cavan is shown in Map A2.1. It should be noted that this boundary does not imply that all of the land within the boundary constitutes the Geopark as this is clearly not the case. It is not the intention of either Fermanagh District Council or Cavan County Council to impose the Geopark on private landowners without their agreement or to invite the public to walk on private land without the owner’s permission.

Of course, there are large geological, geomorphological and landscape features such as mountains, cliffs, lakes and moorlands on private land contained within the notional geopark boundary in Cavan. While the Geopark will not necessarily permit public access to these features many of them will be interpreted at a distance from viewpoints, on scenic drives, in publications and from vantage points on guided walks. In these regards the proposed cross-border Marble Arch Caves European Geopark is exactly the same as any other Geopark.

A3 Description of the proposed expanded Marble Arch Caves European Geopark All of the existing Marble Arch Caves European Geopark is in County Fermanagh, which is situated in the southwest of Northern Ireland bordering the counties of Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim and in the Republic of Ireland and Tyrone in Northern Ireland. Fermanagh is a largely rural county of 170,000 hectares and has a population of approximately 57,000. The existing Marble Arch Caves European Geopark (as at September 2007) covers more than 10% of county Fermanagh.

Fermanagh District Council developed Marble Arch Caves as a geotourism facility in 1985 and the caves are now established as one of the leading tourist attractions in Northern Ireland, having attracted over one million visitors from over 100 countries since opening. In 2001, Marble Arch Caves and the Mountain Park jointly became the first area in the to be awarded European Geopark status, which was followed in 2004 by UNESCO Global Geopark status when UNESCO extended its Geopark strategy on a worldwide basis. Fermanagh District Council made a successful application in February 2007 to both the European Geoparks Network and UNESCO, for a second phase expansion of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark in the west Fermanagh region of Northern Ireland.

County Cavan is situated in the north midlands of the Republic of Ireland, bordering the counties Meath, Monaghan, Leitrim, Westmeath and Longford in the Republic of Ireland and Fermanagh in Northern Ireland. Cavan and Fermanagh are both in the province of and both have been designated as a border counties for regional development purposes. Cavan is an inland county covering 189,000 hectares and is primarily a rural county, with only 16.8% of its population of 64,000 living in urban areas.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 1 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A Marble Arch Caves European Geopark - Introduction

Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council wish to apply, to both UNESCO and the European Geoparks Network, to expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark into West Cavan, extending from the highlands and dry lands of Cuilcagh Mountain to the lowlands and wetlands of in the centre of County Cavan. If this application is successful then this could be the first international cross-border Geopark anywhere in the World and thus, will provide a platform to create further social, economic, cultural and environmental benefits, which will be of strategic importance in the Irish Border Region. This international approach to developing the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark is a model of best practice for other regions of the world where countries share common . Given the recent history of conflict in Ireland, the cross-border expansion of the Geopark will be widely regarded as a symbol of hope for peace by people in other countries where conflict still exists.

Fermanagh and Cavan share a rich natural landscape featuring expanses of brooding, unspolit lakeland punctuated by breathtaking mountainscapes. The area stretches from the heart of the Cavan Lakeland, in the centre of Cavan with its internationally significant ribbed glacial moraines to the globally rare habitat of Cuilcagh Mountain in the west. Landscape character assessments have been carried out for the entire region.

Fermanagh and Cavan are renowned for their rich cultural identity and strong sense of community. The county towns of Cavan and are the two administrative centres within the proposed expanded Marble Arch Caves European Geopark. Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council in partnership with the vibrant Fermanagh and Cavan communities have adopted and maintained a responsibility to sustainable local development. This will be best achieved by addressing local issues with resilience and confidence, creating a sense of commitment and optimism for the future.

A4 Description of both Management Partners Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council will be the only management partners for the Geopark. Fermanagh District Council will continue to provide operational management expertise through the existing management team of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark. Other statutory and non-government organisations will contribute as appropriate to the development, conservation and marketing of the Geopark.

Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council are the statutory local government authorities for County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland and County Cavan in the Republic of Ireland respectively. Both councils have a responsibility to deliver a wide range of services including those necessary to the economic, social, and cultural life of the counties which involves the development of industry, tourism and business as well as social, arts and cultural affairs of each county.

Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council hope to secure the expansion of the current Marble Arch Caves European Geopark with the overall aim of harnessing the natural tourism potential of the area based on it’s rich geological heritage. The synergy created as a result of this enhanced Geopark will act as a key stimulus to further increase economic and community investment in a sustainable manner in the region.

A5 Marble Arch Caves European Geopark Organisation The Marble Arch Caves European Geopark will be responsible for the overall co-ordination and management of the Geopark. The overall Geopark will be overseen by a Joint Committee made up of senior representatives of Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council who will deal with the strategic direction of the expanded Geopark . A Geopark Management Unit made up of key staff from Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council will deal with management and development issues associated with the Geopark under the direction of the Geopark Manager.

A6 Enclosures Enclosure 1: Letters of commitment from the two cross-border Geopark management partners. Enclosure 2: Memorandum of understanding between Coillte and Cavan County Council. Enclosure 3: Letters of endorsement from the Geological Survey of Ireland and the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland. Enclosure 4: Letter of endorsement and accompanying report from the Limestone Research Group.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 2 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

Figure A2.1 Proposed Expansion of the Geopark into County Cavan

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A iueA2.2 Figure elgcladNngooia Sites Non-geological and Geological

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

Enclosure 1: Draft legal agreement for the cross-border Marble Arch Caves European Geopark

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

Enclosure 1: Letters of commitment from the two cross-border Geopark management partners

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

Enclosure 2: Memorandum of understanding between Coillte Teoranta and Cavan County Council

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

Enclosure 2: Memorandum of understanding between Coillte and Cavan County Council. Masterplan for Gateway Site - Burren Forest Property, Co. Cavan. See Appendix 7

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

Enclosure 3: Letters of endorsement from the Geological Survey of Ireland

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

Enclosure 3: Letters of endorsement from the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A Marble Arch Caves European Geopark - Introduction

Enclosure 4: Letter of endorsement and accompanying report from the Limestone Research Group

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A Geological features of significance in the proposed County Cavan expansion area for the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark

Professor John Gunn Director, Limestone Research & Consultancy Ltd Professor, School of Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham

Introduction I have been undertaking research on the Cuilcagh area since 1979 and strongly support the proposal to extend the Marble Arch European Geopark into adjacent areas of County Cavan. From 1998 to January 2001 I was a member of the Expert Panel assessing the heritage of the Republic of Ireland as part of the Irish Geological Heritage Programme. Twelve “Nationally important integrity sites” were identified including “IGH1-19 Western Cuilcagh (Co. Cavan)”. The site was recommended for NHA status and although that has not been achieved it is an indication of the geological significance of the area. I would highlight the following sites within the proposed Geopark extension area as being of particularly importance for their earth science interest.

The Burren The Burren is an upland site some 3km to the south of in Co. Cavan. It consists of several square kilometres of fifty-year-old conifer plantations, rough pasture and recently-deforested scrub that are about 250m above sea level. The underlying geology is the Dartry Limestone Formation, which is partially covered by glacial drift. The area contains important archeological features and classic karst landforms including sinking streams and a superb example of a dry valley that has been dissected by dolines. However, the most significant features are a series of pedestal rocks thirty of which were logged by Parry (2007) who made detailed observations on eleven.

Each feature comprises an erratic cap rock on a pedestal composed of the Dartry Limestone and usually bounded by vertical sidewalls. Cap-rock bulk ranges from about 1 to 4m? and the erratics were deposited at the end of the Killard Point Stadial, ca.13700BP. They are composed of pale-grey, medium-grained orthoquartzites that were almost certainly transported by ice from the northeast slopes of Cuilcagh where the Glenade Sandstone crops out.

Pedestal rocks are believed to form due to differential rates of weathering and/or where the cap- rock, which is relatively more resistant, acts as a protective covering while the surrounding land surface, which is relatively less resistant, is lowered by weathering and/or erosion. The cap rocks are thought to have played a dual role in protecting the pedestal crowns from dissolution. First, they have prevented soil from forming on the crowns by checking plant growth (the crowns are relatively dark and dry) and by sheltering them from inundation by arboreal litter (Ireland was covered in forest from ca.10000BP until ca.3000BP). Secondly, they have prevented rainwater (though not always dripwater) from reaching the crowns.

Globally, pedestal rocks are relatively rare landforms, being most frequent in limestone areas that were ice covered in the late Pleistocene. Occasional pedestal rocks are found elsewhere on Cuilcagh, and there are many examples on the Burren of . However, the majority of the pedestals in Clare have sloping sidewalls, typical of formation in an area devoid of soil, whereas those in Cavan have vertical sidewalls indicating formation beneath a soil/drift cover. Hence, they are of international importance.

Enclosure 4: Letter of endorsement and accompanying report from the Limestone Research Group

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A Geological features of significance in the proposed County Cavan expansion area for the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark

Garvagh Lough Garvagh Lough is a large (~ 600m long, 400m wide) lake about 1km south of the Burren. The lake is underlain by Dartry Limestone Formation which is the dominant karst lithology on Cuilcagh. Karst areas are noted for an absence of surface drainage and lakes are generally rare. Turloughs, groundwater-fed ephemeral lakes are an exception but most are found in lowland karst areas. This makes Garvagh Lough an unusual landform which is certainly of national significance. The lake receives drainage from a number of small streams some of which are -fed. It is not known whether there is any direct recharge into the underlying limestone or whether the lake bed has been effectively sealed by glacial sediments. However, it is known that a surface stream drains from the lake but sinks after about 300m at Pollnaowen.

As well as being an unusual example of a sink that drains a lake, Pollnaowen is the site of the first recorded water tracing experiment in Ireland as Hull (1878, p.172) notes that “Mr. S.B. Wilkinson proved by experimenting the truth of this statement, having thrown hay or straw into the little lough which, on disappearing, has come up in the waters of the ”. However, there is some doubt as to whom this experiment should be attributed to since Wilkinson and Cruise (1886) simply note that “people living in the district state that, on one occasion when sacks of chaff were emptied where the small river which drains the Lough disappears, after a short interval the chaff reappeared in the Shannon Pot”. Further confusion is added by the fact that Wilkinson and Cruise cite Hull as the source of their information! However, Gunn (1982) demonstrated that the water from Garvagh Lough does indeed flow to Shannon Pot, a travel time of 240m/h being recorded during a period of high flow. Local folklore also has it that Poteen (illicit pot-still whiskey) was once being brewed by the side of the stream which drains from Garvagh Lough. A sudden warning of the approach of Crown Revenue Officers led to the still being hastily dumped into the stream which washed it into the sink at Pollnaowen. A few days later, so the tale goes, the still was recovered intact from Shannon Pot!

Shannon Pot In addition to Pollnaowen the spring at Shannon Pot discharges water from a large proximal catchment (~ 12.8 km2, of which some sixty per cent is underlain by limestone; Gunn, 1996, 1997) and from a distal catchment that extends to Pigeon Pot on east Cuilcagh. These are almost 11km away in a straight line making this one of the longest tracing experiments in Ireland. The Pigeon Pots are within the boundary of the present Marble Arch Caves European Geopark so there is a clear hydrogeological linkage between the present Geopark and the proposed Geopark.

The rising pool is about 16m in diameter and has been explored by divers to a depth of -9.5m where water emerges from a 2m-wide, but impenetrably narrow, fissure (Elliot & Solari, 1972). The site has a particular hydrogeological interest in that the water rises through the Meenymore formation which is stratigraphically above the Dartry Limestone. Breaching of the Meenymore to allow water to rise at this point probably occurred relatively recently (in geological time) and it seems likely that there is a deeper underflow system although the point at which this water emerges is uncertain. Brown (2005) discusses this system using hydrochemical and sulphate sulphur isotopic ratios.

Despite being a geologically relatively recent landform the Pot has considerable cultural significance as the traditional source of The Shannon, the longest river in Britain and Ireland with a length of 280 km and a basin area of around 15,530 km2. There is a strong local tradition in the area that many hundreds of years ago, a terrible plague ravished the countryside claiming many lives. One day a Saint, wandering in the vicinity in search of drinking water, fainted. As he regained his senses, he could hear the trickle of water running from the Pot. He drank his fill and since then the spring has never gone dry!

Enclosure 4: Letter of endorsement and accompanying report from the Limestone Research Group

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A Geological features of significance in the proposed County Cavan expansion area for the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark

Although the Pot is the source of the surface stream that eventually becomes the Shannon, two unnamed streams may be proposed as the ‘true’ source of the River. Taking distance from the rising as the criteria, the stream which sinks at Pigeon Pot must be regarded as the source as it is the farthest known sink which feeds Shannon Pot (10.6 km in a straight line). Alternatively, if height above sea level is taken as the criteria then the highest flow in the catchment is an unnamed stream which rises at about 400m above sea-level on the slope of Tiltinbane on the western end of Cuilcagh Mountain. The stream follows a steep course down the mountain but bifurcates before sinking at Tullynakeeragh (in County Fermanagh) and at Pollahune (in County Cavan). Although small, the stream may be unique in having a sink in two different countries. Water tracing experiments (Gunn, 1997) have shown that the two sinks at Tullynakeeragh and Pollahune supply different branches of Shannon en route to Shannon Pot

The System This is the most recently discovered major cave system in Cavan-Fermanagh (Jones et al., 1997) and contains over 3.6km of both active and relict vadose and phreatic cave passages with a range of clastic sediments and . Scientifically it is of particular interest because although access for humans is by small and immature stream-sinks the trunk cave passage is clearly much older and large volumes of water have flowed through the system in the past. It is still uncertain whether the water flowing from the east Cuilcagh sinks to Shannon Pot flow through the cave. Although political boundaries have no geological relevance it is of interest that although the only entrance that is currently accessible to humans (Polltullyard) is in County Fermanagh the majority of the surveyed cave passage is beneath County Cavan.

Pollnagossan / Barran Rising System Pollnagossan is a complex, and as yet not fully explored cave that is entered where a stream from Tullygobban Lough sinks. It is of particular hydrogeological interest because of its proximity to the Shannon – Erne watershed. Water sinking some 300m to the south drains to Legeelan Upper Rising and thence to Garvagh Lough, Shannon Pot and the . However, the water sinking at Pollnagossan has been traced to the Barran Risings some 2.3km to the west. The stream from these risings flows to Upper Lough Macnean (passing through White Father’s cave en route) and eventually to the Erne.

White Fathers Cave The stream from the Barran Risings passes through three adjacent sections of cave passage en route to Upper Lough Macnean. These would originally have been part of a single conduit that has been breached by roof collapse and they provide an excellent example of a mature cave. They can also be explored from sink to rising, something that is relatively rare. The most upstream section (First Cave) is now only a short natural bridge; Second Cave is some 60m long; and Third Cave around 200m. The caves are also of importance for their speleothems and as bat roosts.

Swanlinbar mineral springs The above sites all form part of the west Cuilcagh karst in which the waters have a dominantly calcium - bicarbonate type chemistry. However, near to the east of Cuilcagh there are several heavily mineralised springs including Drumod and Mullan spa wells which discharges sulphur rich water and Uragh Spa that has a high concentration of magnesium. Their hydrogeology and geochemistry are poorly understood and will be the subject of future research.

Enclosure 4: Letter of endorsement and accompanying report from the Limestone Research Group

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A Geological features of significance in the proposed County Cavan expansion area for the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark

References

Brown L. 2005. Inception and subsequent development of conduits in the Cuilcagh karst, Ireland. Unpubl PhD thesis, University of Huddersfield.

Elliot J V & Solari R A. 1972. Shannon Pot. Group Newsletter N.S. 22: 10. Gunn J. 1982. Water tracing in Ireland: A review with special reference to the Cuilcagh karst. Irish Geography 15: 94-106.

Gunn, J. 1996. Source of the River Shannon, Ireland. Environmental Geology, 27, 110-112.

Gunn J. 1997. A brief summary of the karst of Cuilcagh Mountain. In: Jones, G. Ll, Burns, G., Fogg, T. & Kelly, J. (Eds.) The caves of Fermanagh and Cavan, The Lough Nilly Press, 60-61.

Hull E. 1878. Physical geology and . Dublin

Jones G. Ll., Burns, G., Fogg T. & Kelly J. (Eds.). 1997. The caves of Fermanagh and Cavan, The Lough Nilly Press.

Parry, B. 2007. The provenance of the Norber Erratics and the formation of post-Dimlington Stadial pedestal rocks with Carboniferous limestone pedestals in the , with special reference to Norber. Unpubl. PhD thesis, University of Huddersfield.

Wilkinson S B and Cruise.1886. Explanatory memoir to accompany sheet 56 of the maps of the Geological Survey of Ireland. Dublin: Geological Survey of Ireland.

Enclosure 4: Letter of endorsement and accompanying report from the Limestone Research Group

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section A

1. Clough Oughter Castle 2.

3. Glacial Erratic, Burren Forest 4. Marble Arch Caves

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section B Scientific Description of the European Geopark Territory

B1 Introduction The counties of Fermanagh and Cavan can be found in the northwest of the island of Ireland, straddling the international border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Dramatic cliffs, rugged rocky outcrops and upland blanket bog dominate the north west of the expanded Geopark area, whilst the landscape of south-east of the area gives way to gently rolling drumlins and flooded hollows. All of which are married together by the presence of the major lake systems of the Erne, MacNean and Oughter. The varied landscape of the expanded Geopark area is an expression of the area’s diverse geological history in an unspolit pocket of the Irish landscape.

Counties Fermanagh and Cavan are famous for their extensive networks of caves, with the Marble Arch Show Caves being the region’s main . The presence of abundant Carboniferous limestone has not only led to the development of fine caves, but also karst landscapes and rugged limestone cliffs. The undulating drumlins in the southeast of the area are home to some of the finest examples of glacial geology in the world, and also make an ideal place to appreciate the more gentle landscape amongst the rolling hills and secluded lakes.

B2 Full geological description of the area The oldest rocks in the area are found at Derrin Mountain where part of the Lough Derg Inlier is exposed. Rocks at this outcrop are Moinian in age and are mainly psammites. Structurally these form part of a large open NE plunging antiform known as the Lough Derg Antiform.

The oldest exposed sedimentary rocks in the area were deposited as a result of a marine transgression that advanced northwards during Lower Carboniferous times. The resulting , mudstones and shales formed as a result of a shallow-tropical sea that covered the entire area (Figure B1.1). An influx of sediments from a huge river-delta river system flowing from a region to the north of the current Geopark choked the shallow sea during the lower part of the Upper Carboniferous. The resulting mudstone, siltstone and sandstone can be seen forming sub-horizontal layers in the upland areas of Cuilcagh and Belmore Mountains.

Apart from minor igneous intrusions in the late Cretaceous to early Paleogene times there is no further evidence of geological events until the Quaternary (Figure B1.2). The known Quaternary glacial deposits are mostly of till (boulder clay) and are probably the products of the last (Midlandian) glaciation, although there is evidence of a previous glaciation, an unusual feature amongst glacial deposits as earlier features are usually obliterated by the erosive power of the ice. A great understanding of the movements of ice sheets during the last glaciation can be gleaned from the abundant glacial features of the expanded Geopark area including ribbed moraines and drumlins.

Following the retreat of the ice, warming of the climate and the postglacial rise of sea level, lakes formed in low lying areas, and deposits formed on higher ground.

As the overlying Upper Carboniferous strata were removed by erosion the limestones became exposed and surface landforms evolved. However, conduit inception began long before under confined conditions. Dating of speleothems has confirmed that the larger caves had reached a mature stage of development over 350,000 years ago. During the Quaternary successive ice advances scoured the area, although the summit of Cuilcagh is thought to have been a nunatak (ice free) during the most recent (Midlandian) glaciation.

A full geological map of the Geopark can be seen in Figure B1.3.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 3 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section B Scientific Description of the European Geopark Territory

Geological Units Each of the main geological units found within the Geopark will be discussed in turn.

2.2.1.1 Pre-Cambrian (Moinian) Rocks Lough Derg Group (Slishwood Division) rocks outcrops over a relatively restricted area in the west of County Fermanagh and form part of the Lough Derg Inlier, an area of pre-Dalradian basement rocks extending from Lower to Lough Derg. A good exposure of this group can be found in a small quarry within Tullchurry Forest on the northern shores of Lower Lough erne.

The Lough Derg Group comprises a succession of pale cream to buff coloured medium to coarse-grained siliceous psammites with minor plagioclase, muscovite and biotite. These psammites display a range of granoblastic and cataclastic textures. The succession also contains thin semipelite horizons. The psammite is generally flaggy or more massively bedded and commonly has a variegated striped appearance.

Pegmatite veins also occur throughout the Lough Derg Inlier. These are late-formed structures cross-cutting both the metasedimentary rocks and the metabasites. Pegmatite veins vary in width from cms to metres. Potash feldspar, quartz and muscovite are the most common constituent minerals. Locally the pegmatites are rich in potash feldspar (up to 64% modal K-feldspar, with 10% K2O in the whole rock). Up until the beginning of the 20th Century, K2O rich pegmatites were mined locally and used for the manufacture of fine porcelain in the nearby Belleek Pottery.

2.2.1.2 Carboniferous Rocks The Carboniferous succession of the Geopark can be divided into 2 groups: the predominantly Lower Carboniferous and the overlying .

In the Geopark the Tyrone Group comprises six formations of mainly limestone and shales. It overlies an unnamed basal sequence, not exposed within the area. The Tyrone Group contrasts with the overlying Leitrim Group, which consists mainly of shaly mudstones with subordinate sandstones.

The rocks assigned to the Leitrim Group consist of a complex interbedded sequence of supratidal, intertidal, deltaic and shallow-marine sedimentary rocks. The Leitrim Group is characterised by major and minor cyclicity.

Bedded limestones (Figure B2.1) are restricted to the Tyrone Group and mostly fall within the Glencar Limestone Formation and the Dartry Limestone Formation, although minor limestone beds are found elsewhere within the Tyrone Group. The older limestones (Glencar Limestone Formation) are dark-grey in colour and contain large amounts of mud, whilst the younger limestones (Dartry Limestone Formation) are pale-grey in colour. Most of the limestones contain fragmentary fossils (Figure B2.2) but there are horizons such as that at Legacurragh that contain significantly rich faunas of corals and brachiopods (see Fossils section).

Massive limestones are almost exclusively found within the Dartry Limestone formation although there are local occurrences of massive limestone mounds found within the Glencar Limestone Formation. They generally consist of up to 100m thick mounds of poorly-fossiliferous limestone but can also be found as parallel sheets of massive limestone. They are thought to have formed as mud-mounds on the Lower Carboniferous sea-floor. Due to the lack of bedding the limestone are resistant to erosion and often stand proud on the landscape where they are referred to locally as ‘reef-knolls’. These are commonly found along the Marlbank area of the Geopark, some of the best examples being at the Hanging Rock and Gowlan Quarry (Figure B2.3).

Chert is common within the Dartry Limestone Formation of the Geopark where bluish black to brown and, more rarely cream chert occurs throughout the limestones. It occurs as variably shaped nodules but is most common as layers more or less parallel to bedding both within and between the limestone beds. Chert is particularly well exposed in the Boho Caves where it forms protruding ribs in the caves wall and also in the quarry face of Gortalughany Quarry (Figure B2.6).

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Figure B1.1 Artists impression of the expanded Geopark area during the Lower Carboniferous period

Figure B1.2 Artists impression of the expanded Geopark area during the last Ice Age

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Figure B1.3 Geology Map

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Figure B2.1 Bedded limestone found at Lough Figure B2.2 Photomicrograph of fragmentary fossils Navar Quarry within Carboniferous bedded limestone

Figure B2.3 Massive limestone found in Gowlan Figure B2.4 Sandstone exposure on Cuilcagh Quarry Mountain

Figure B2.5 Sandstone dyke within prodelta Figure B2.6 Chert beds exposed in face of mudstone Gortalughany Quarry

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Figure B2.7 Colonial corals found at Legacurragh Figure B2.8 The Blacksley Dyke exposed in the Owenbrean River

Figure B2.9 Photmicrograph of the olivine dolerite Figure B2.10 Exposure of the Garrison Sill dolerite Cuilcagh Dyke (intruded into Carboniferous bedded limestone)

Figure B2.11 The Whale Rock' glacial erratic Figure B2.12 Glacial erratic from the Burren Forest

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Figure B2.13 Glacial erratic from Legacurragh Figure B2.14 Blanket bog on the northern slopes of Cuilcagh Mountain at Legnabrocky

Figure B2.15 Cuilcagh Blanket Bog Figure B2.16 Limestone pavement at Legnabrocky

Figure B2.17 Pollnagossan Cave collapse doline

Figure B2.18 Pollasumera blind valley

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Figure B2.19 Lost Valley dry valley in the Burren Figure B2.20 Drumod sulphur spa just outside Forest Swanlinbar

Figure B2.21 Kilmore Cathedral holywell natural Figure B2.22 Whitefathers Cave spring

Figure B2.23 Boho Cave Figure B2.24 Pollnagollum Coolarkan Cave

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Figure B2.25 Glacially overdeepened valley now Figure B2.26 Flooded drumlins of Upper Lough occupied by Lower Lough Erne Erne

Figure B2.27 Slieve Rushen Figure B2.28 Satellite image of ribbed moraines in Mid Cavan

Figure B2.29 Landslips along the Bellavally Gap

Figure B2.30 Sandstone cliffs of Cuilcagh Mountain

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Figure B2.31 Cliffs Figure B2.32 Sandstone scarps at Lough Navar forest

Figure B2.33 Edouard Martel reclining on a limestone outcrop

Figure B2.34 Reconstruction of woolly mammoth

Figure B2.35 Bones of extinct Brown Bear

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Sandstone is more commonly found within the Leitrim Group, with sandstone being the main component of (but not restricted to) the Glenade Sandstone Formation, the Briscloonagh Sandstone Formation and the Lackagh Sandstone Formation. There is significant variation in the sandstones found within the Geopark, the majority being fine to medium-grained rocks (figure B2.4 and B2.5), and some such as those of the Briscloonagh Sandstone Formation contain evidence of cyclicity indicating their deposition within a fluviodeltaic setting. Many of the sandstones form significant features of the upland areas of the Geopark with the Glenade Sandstone Formation forming topographical ridges on the middle slopes of Cuilcagh Mountain and the Lackagh Sandstone Formation forms the cliffs of Cuilcagh Summit.

Mudstone, shale and siltstone are common throughout the entire Carboniferous succession in the Geopark and represent a variety of depositional environments. Within the Tyrone Group, the highly fossiliferous Benbulben Shale Formation is found directly below the Glencar Limestone Formation indicating its deposition in an offshore marine setting. Those from the Leitrim Group generally indicated deposition within a range of environments including supratidal and intertidal environments (Meenymore Formation), and deltaic and shallow-marine environments (Bellavally Formation). There is also evidence of deposition within a fluviodeltaic setting (Figure B2.6).

Fossils are common but not exclusive to the limestones of the Tyrone Group and also within some of the mudstones and shales for example, the mudstones of the Benbulben Shale Formation contain abundant remains of fenestellid bryozoa, brachiopods and large specimens of Siphonophyllia benburbensis. Many of the fossils found within the limestones are predominantly of a coral-brachiopod assemblage with fragmentary crinoids also present. There are, however, occurrences of bryozoa, bivalves and ammonoids found locally. There several sites that contain excellent examples of complete fossils such as the Legacurragh coral bed occurring at the very top of the Dartry Limestone Formation containing abundant in situ silicified Siphonodendron irregulare (Figure B2.7). Fossils are extremely rare within the siliclastic elements of the Carboniferous succession but can be locally found within the Glenade Sandstone Formation and are restricted to minute reworked shell fragments and crinoid debris. Plant remains are more common and consist of wood fragments of Calamite sp. in the sandstone and more fragile leaf remains in thin shales and mudstones.

2.2.1.3 Paleogene Rocks Several major basic dykes and a sill, intrude the Carboniferous and older strata within the Geopark. The dykes consist mainly of dolerite and form part of the Donegal- Swarm, which has a predominantly north-west - south-east trend. Intrusion took place during late Cretaceous and Palaeogene times when Ireland and north-west Britain were affected by north-east - south-west extension.

Blackslee Dyke The Blackslee Dyke (Figure B2.8) outcrops intermittently over 1km around the area of Lough Navar Forest. It is a syntectonic composite intrusion, which was emplaced during movement on a major north-west trending fault. The intrusion is 8-12m wide and although internal contacts are seldom clearly seen, its composite nature is reflected by the different degrees of weathering. The dyke itself is composed of massive dolerite often flanked by a basalt breccia containing many sedimentary xenoliths.

Cuilcagh Dyke The Cuilcagh Dyke (Figure B2.9) is composed of saponitically altered and zeolitised olivine dolerite. The intrusion is up to 17m wide and can be traced across the northern slopes of Cuilcagh Mountain for a distance of 9km. The Cuilcagh Dyke is consistent with the Cuilcagh Fault, which cross-cuts all other structural elements in the area.

Garrison Sill The Garrison Sill (Figure B2.10) is an olivine dolerite intrusion, which crops out over an area of 15km2. The sill varies in thickness from 30m to 5m and where exposed generally consists of a central section with crudely developed columnar jointing. The contacts with the country rock are often sharp and chilled.

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2.2.1.4 Quaternary Deposits Till (or boulder clay) is a heterogeneous deposit of a clay to sandy clay matrix charged with assorted rock clasts ranging in size from pebbles to boulders. These can be observed most notably along the Bellavally Gap and in the banks of the Owenbrean River. The majority of clasts consist of Carboniferous rocks. The thickness of the till is variable; on steep slopes above 200m it commonly forms a thin deposit, rarely exceeding 2m in depth, whilst in lowland areas over 7m of till has been recorded.

Erratics are boulders of rock that deviate from the size and type of rock native to the area in which they rest and have been carried to their current locations by glacial ice (Figures B2.11 to B2.13). Within the Geopark, erratics are commonly composed of sandstone and have been carried for several kilometres. Some of the best examples of such features can be seen within the Burren Forest

Peat deposits are common in the region and consist primarily of blanket bog, generally in the upland areas of the Geopark. The blanket bog is up to 4m thick, with extensive areas being found on the slopes of Cuilcagh (Figures B2.14 and B2.15) and Belmore Mountains. Blanket bog is a globally rare habitat so its abundance in the area adds to the international significance of the Geopark expansion area.

Scree forms as a result of the accumulation of angular rock fragments created by the ‘freeze-thaw’ action during periglacial conditions. Major scree-deposits are primarily confined to the north- and east-facing cliffs of Cuilcagh Mountain.

2.2.1.5 Karst landforms Surface karst (exokarst) landforms Karren and limestone pavement are produced as chemical weathering attacks the exposed Carboniferous limestone, of which there is in abundance in the Geopark. Karren features (etched ridges and grooves) can be found at several places including Legnabrocky whilst fine examples of limestone pavement can be found at Legnabrocky (Figure B2.16) and Killykeegan.

Dolines are enclosed depressions on limestone. There are six main types of which three; solution dolines, collapse dolines and suffosion dolines are present in the Geopark. Solution dolines form where limestone dissolution is focussed, commonly at a joint-intersection. Collapse dolines form where underground dissolution has formed a cavern the roof of which extends upwards by sloping and eventually becomes unstable resulting in collapse (Figure B2.17). Suffosion dolines occur where unconsolidated materials overlying limestone are removed underground via dissolutionally enlarge joints. Within the Geopark there are a number of unusual suffosion dolines formed where peat has been transported down into the underlying limestone.

Fluviokarst landforms: blind, dry and pocket valleys A characteristic of karst areas is the development of underground drainage systems and the resulting change in overground valley form.

Blind valleys terminate downstream at cliff faces where the river disappears into a cave system. There are several examples in the Geopark, including Monastir cliff where the Aghinrawn River sinks and Pollasumera where the Owenbrean River sinks (Figure B2.18).

The section of the Owenbrean River between its upper sinks and Pollasumera is a superb example of a valley that is dry for part of the year. There are also permanently dry valleys such as the Giant’s Leap within the Burren Forest (Figure B2.19) and Legacurragh dry valley.

Where a large spring emerges the downstream valley has a very sharp upper limit and is termed a pocket valley of which the Cladagh River is a good example.

Natural springs are common in the border area between Cavan and Fermanagh due to underlying limestone geology. Many of these springs are associated with different minerals and were once used as ‘spa wells’. Two notable sites are the village of Swanlinbar that has a concentration of spa wells (Figure B2.20) and the holywell at Kilmore Cathedral (Figure B2.21).

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Turloughs are defined as “A topographic depression in karst which is intermittently inundated on an annual basis, mainly from groundwater, and which has a substrate and/or ecological communities characteristic of wetlands”. Turloughs are rare and unusual landforms with one site, containing three turloughs in a hydrologically linked system, partly within the Geopark.

Underground karst (endokarst) landforms Cave passages are perhaps the geological feature that the Geopark is most famed for. The obvious example is that of the Marble Arch Caves system but other caves such as those at Whitefathers (Figure B2.22), Boho (Figure B2.23) and Pollnagollum-Coolarkan (Figure B2.24) are easily accessible. The Boho Caves are particularly notable as they are a fine example of a maze cave system where passage development has been strongly influenced by tectonic jointing. In addition to the accessible caves water tracing has proved an extensive network of conduits.

Chemical sediments (speleothems) are common within many of the caves in the Geopark. Good examples of , stalagmites, helictites, cave curtains, and rimstone pools can all be found within several of the caves.

2.2.1.6 Other landforms Marble Arch and Cuilcagh are best known for their caves and karst but the Geopark contains many other spectacular landforms.

2.2.1.6.1 Glacial Landforms Erosional landforms Lakes are an extremely important part of the Fermanagh and Cavan landscape with County Cavan alone claiming to have a lake for every day of the year. Many of the lakes have formed in overdeepened glacial valleys such as Loughs MacNean and Lower Lough Erne (Figure B2.25). Other lake systems such as Lough Oughter and Upper Lough Erne (Figure B2.26) are found in the hollows between glacially deposited drumlins as a result of flooding at the end of the last glaciation.

Depositional landforms Drumlins are subglacial accumulations of sediment whose long axes are aligned parallel to former ice flow. Individual drumlins form rounded, elongate hills and can be found in limited numbers in most areas of the expanded Geopark area. Drumlins however, tend to occur in fields such as those around the Lough Oughter and Upper Lough Erne (Figure B2.26) area which are part of a much larger drumlin field extending into Counties Meath, Monaghan and further east. The word drumlin is taken from the Irish word druim, meaning back or ridge. This is testament to the importance of Irish glacial geology in that the word drumlin is now internationally accepted glacial terminology.

Glacial Moraines are a general name given to material left behind as the ice retreated at the end of the last glaciation. They tend to be primarily composed of sands and gravels and are often quarried for economic purposes such as those mentioned at Slieve Rushen below. Good examples of such moraines form the landbridge that connects Upper and Lower Lough Macnean, and also form the eastern slopes of Slieve Rushen (Figure B2.27).

Ribbed moraines (or Rogen moraines) are subglacial landforms that form transverse to ice flow. They form elongate hills and look similar to giant current ripples. The eastern part of the expanded Geopark area around Lough Oughter and Cavan town, contains some of the largest ribbed moraines in the world, reaching up to 16km in length (Figure B2.28). In the expanded Geopark area the ribbed moraines have become ‘drumlinised’, in that drumlins have formed on top of the ribbed moraines. This allows for the study of more than one phase of glaciation, something not often recorded in glacial sediments.

2.2.1.6.2 Peat Landforms Extensive networks of pipes have developed in the peat deposits and are analagous to the solution conduits that form in limestones. Some have grown sufficiently large that they can be explored for several metres by humans – the criteria for a cave. Collapse of peat into the pipes has formed dolines and the entire landform assemblage is best referred to as pseudokarst.

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2.2.1.6.3 Mass movements Mass movements in peat Bog flows and peat slides are characteristic landforms in areas of upland blanket bog but are particularly well developed in the Geopark. They have been the subjects of extensive research and there are more published papers on the Cuilcagh peat mass movements than on any other peatland area.

Mass movements in rock Landslides are a common feature in the friable Carboniferous shale (mudstone) deposits of the lower slopes of Cuilcagh Mountain. These can be seen along the Hiker’s Trail of Cuilcagh Mountain and also along the Cuilcagh Touring route through the Bellavally Gap (Figure B2.29).

2.2.1.6.4 Cliffs and scarps Some of the finest cliffs and scarps in Ireland can be seen in the Geopark including the Cuilcagh summit ridge (sandstone) (Figure B2.30), the (sandstone) and Knockmore Cliff (limestone) (Figure B2.31). There are also a series of sandstone cliffs in Lough Navar Forest (Figure B2.32) that are particularly unusual because of their substantially undercut base and a number of ‘pocket’ features. These features are similar to ‘tafoni’ and to ‘honeycomb weathering’ cavities. At the time of writing it is thought these are the only examples of this type of weathering in the UK and Ireland.

2.3 Historical Significance The above ground and subterranean geology of west Fermanagh and west Cavan has been explored and interpreted by a number of innovative Earth Scientists since the 18th Century.

2.3.1 Cave Exploration Edouard Alfred Martel (Figure B2.33), one of the most eminent personalities in the history of or Cave Science, stayed at as the guest of the Earl of Enniskillen in the summer of 1895. Martel lectured in Speleology at the University of the Sorbonne in Paris and was in Ireland on a grand tour of the karst areas of Ireland. He spent some time exploring caves in west Fermanagh including Marble Arch Caves, Noon’s Hole, Arch Cave, Boho Caves and Coolarken Cave. In most instances, Martel was the first person to systematically explore these caves beyond the limit of daylight. He was particularly impressed by Marble Arch Caves, which he later described in his subsequent book (Irlande et Cavernes Anglaises 1897) and in his lectures as a striking example of a main river cave.

Prompted by a lecture from Martel in 1904, the Yorkshire Ramblers mounted expeditions to west Fermanagh in 1908 and 1912. The Ramblers carried out a comprehensive survey of Marble Arch Caves in 1908 proving the connection between Cradle Hole and the Grand Gallery and discovering Templebawn Cave in the Monastir Gorge. In 1912 they succeeded in making the first full descent of the challenging Noon’s Hole by negotiating its 100-metre depth using rope ladders. Sadly, many of the Ramblers were killed in action during the First World War so it was not until 1935 when the Club re-visited Fermanagh. On that occasion they made the major breakthrough into the imposing Skreen Hill series of Marble Arch Caves. Further exploration continued in west Fermanagh in the 1940’s, 50’s and 60’s culminating in the discovery of the majestic cave system – one of the most notable caves in the British Isles. These explorations were recounted over the years in various editions of the Yorkshire Rambler Club Journal.

2.3.2Quaternary Excavations Thomas Molyneux became famous when he was the first person to publish on the occurrence of the Giant Irish Elk in Ireland (now correctly renamed as the Giant Irish Deer) in 1697. He subsequently published findings from excavations of many other Quaternary mammals including the first find of Woolly Mammoth (Figure B2.34) remains in Ireland from Turbet Island in in 1715.

Thomas Plunkett from Enniskillen was an avid natural historian who had a great interest in the Fermanagh karst. He explored a number of caves in west Fermanagh among other finds discovering the bones of extinct Brown Bear (Figure B2.35), which are now displayed at Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre on loan from the National Museum of Ireland. Plunkett published his scientific reports in several journals including the Journal of the Royal Geological Society of Ireland 1876, Reports of the British Association 1877 & 1878, Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy 1870-79 and the Geological Magazine 1898.

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2.3.4 Modern Geological Research In modern times the hard rock and drift geology of the region has been subject to extensive field research and mapping by both the Geological Survey of Ireland and the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland. Extensive scientific research has also been carried out by both Irish and overseas universities. For example, the Limestone Research Group of the University of Birmingham (formerly of the University of Huddersfield), under the direction of Professor John Gunn, has been conducting scientific research into the caves, karst, underground hydrology and peatlands of the Cuilcagh Mountain region in both Fermanagh and Cavan area for over 30 years.

2.3.5 Mineral Spas The quiet town of Swanlinbar was at one time a thriving spa town due to the occurrence of several mineral spas in and around the town. Many spas such as the Uragh (magnesium), Mullagh (iron) and Drumod (sulphur) spas (Figure B2.20) had reputed healing qualities and people were encouraged to come to Swanlinar to take the water. The number of visitors to the town increased so much that the Spa Wells Hotel was constructed, sadly only the foundations of the hotel remain to this day. Famous visitors to the town included Henry Grattan, father of the Irish Parliament.

B3 List and description of the geological sites Please refer to Appendix 1 for a full list of geological sites. The location of each site can be seen in Maps A2.2.

B4 Details on the interest and international, national or regional significance of these sites It is sometimes difficult to classify the international significance of a particular geological site but in the case of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark a site of international significance has been taken as one that meets any of the following criteria:

1. Type locality for the description of a particular geological process, a particular rock type that has had international influence on geological science. 2. Type localities for fossils, minerals and /or chemical elements. 3. Extraordinary geological features / occurrences of international interest.

Using these criteria several sites of international importance have been identified, with the most significant of these being mentioned below.

• Cuilcagh-Aneirin Blanket Bog is an expansive area of upland blanket bog that is vital for the study of past climate change and is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna, but is also a habitat that makes up only 0.01% of the Earth’s surface. Much of this area is protected by European Law as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the European Union Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) whilst on the northern slopes of Cuilcagh Mountain parts of the blanket bog have been designated as a Ramsar wetland site of international importance.

• Roosky & Fardrum Turloughs are part of a complex of 3 turloughs that occur in Northern Ireland, the only occurrence of its type, with only 1 other being known from the United Kingdom. These ‘seasonal lakes’ are found in karstic limestone areas of the UK and Ireland and have no surface outflow or inflow. Turloughs host a very distinctive habitat of which this locality is the most northerly occurrence. These sites are protected as Special Areas of Conservation under the European Union Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC).

• Quarry is an example of a Waulsortian mud mound (described as Massive Limestone previously in this application). The international significance of this site arises from the fact that it sets the most northerly limit of the Waulsortian in western Europe. It is also the only known site of Chadian age in Northern Ireland and is home to the only occurrence of Chadian trilobites in the country. Despite its international significance this site is only protected under national law as it has been designated as an Area of Special Scientific Significance.

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• Mid Cavan Ribbed Moraines or Rogen Moraines as they are often known are part of the so-called ‘Drumlin Belt’ of north west Ireland. Although these features are also recorded from other glaciated areas in the northern hemisphere such as Sweden and , the ribbed moraines found in this area are of greater size (up to 16km in length) than any other recorded examples. The ribbed moraines of north west Ireland have been instrumental to the understanding of palaeoflow patterns of the Irish Ice Sheet. Numerous overlapping episodes of ice sheet evolution have now been identified with up to 4 phases being identified during the last glaciation.

Many sites in the expanded Geopark area are of national and regional significance and these can be seen in Section B6 as well as the sites mentioned above.

B5 Current or potential pressure on the Geopark and these sites The Marble Arch Caves European Geopark has extensive experience in accommodating large numbers of tourists every year whilst minimising the impact of these visitors on the surrounding environment. All tourism providers in the expanded Geopark area encourage visitors and recreational activities at many of their sites. These are being effectively managed to minimise the affect of increased visitors due to the Geopark expansion.

The current and potential pressures on the geosites are summarised below:

• Natural degradation and vegetation growth • Agricultural and other land management practices • Poor planning decisions • Overuse or misuse

These pressures are being controlled by careful management techniques including research, monitoring, conservation and maintenance. Liaison is ongoing on a regular basis among the statutory and non-government organisations with responsibility for the protection of the environment to ensure that areas and sites are effectively managed and maintained in a state of favourable conservation.

B6 Current status in terms of protection of the sites The table below outlines the statutory designated areas found within the expanded Geopark area. All of these sites are listed in Appendix 2.

Designation Number of Sites Ramsar Site 1 Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and proposed (cSAC) 8(1) Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) 10 National Nature Reserve (NNR) 6 Forest Management Unit (FMU) 7 Earth Science Conservation Review (ESCR) Sites 40 Forest Nature Reserve 6 Natural Heritage Area (NHA) and proposed (pNHA) 1(5) Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) 2 Rural Environmental protection Scheme (REPS) 1

In the Republic of Ireland FMU’s are managed by Coillte

Ramsar Sites are designated to stem the progressive encroachment on and loss of wetlands, both now and in the future to encourage the use of wetlands. The designation was adopted after the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitats held a meeting at Ramsar, in 1971.

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Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) designation help to conserve some of the finest ecological and geological sites of national importance in Northern Ireland. They are the responsibility of the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS), an agency of the Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland.

National Nature Reserves (NNR) are defined as an area of national importance for flora, fauna or features of geological interest or other special interest, which are reserved and managed for conservation and to provide special opportunities to study and research. The EHS declares nature reserves under the Nature Conservation & Amenity Lands (Northern Ireland) Order 1985.

Natural Heritage Areas (NHA) are designated under Section 18 of the Wildlife (Amended) Act 2000 in the Republic of Ireland to conserve and protect nationally important habitats, landforms, geological and geomorphological features. The Geological Survey of Ireland is currently compiling a list of geological / geomorphological sites in need of protection (see Earth Science Conservation Review Sites section below) through NHA designation. GSI provides scientific appraisal and interpretative advice on geological and geomorphological sites. GSI is also responsible for the identification of important sites that are capable of being conserved as NHA’s. The National Parks and Wildlife Service of The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government have the responsibility of designation and management of sites with appropriate advice from GSI. Approximately 20 sites have been identified in County Cavan so far.

Of the majority of geological sites not eventually selected for NHA designation, some are being promoted as County Geological Sites (CGS), which have no statutory protection, but may be included within County Development Plans.

Earth Science Conservation Review Sites (ESCR). Many of the geosites within the expanded Geopark area have been recorded as part of the Earth Science Conservation Review in Northern Ireland as sites of international or national or importance. ESCR involves the assessment of all earth science localities, both geological and geomorphological in Northern Ireland, which achieve at least national significance. Identifying these sites assists in their monitoring and management and will help to ensure the maintenance of scientific interest. ESCR’s are the responsibility of the Environment and Heritage Service. Although being identified as an ESCR site offers no legal protection, many of these sites have been assigned as ASSI’s, and many more are awaiting designation. For full site listings and descriptions see Apendix 5.

A similar review is currently being undertaken in the Republic of Ireland with the Irish Geological Heritage (IGH) Programme. This is a partnership between The Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. It aims to identify, document, and protect the wealth of geological heritage in the Republic of Ireland and conserve it against ever increasing threats, and also to promote its value with the landowners and the public see Apendix 6.

Forest Management Units (FMU) are well defined and demarcated land areas, predominantly covered by forests, managed on a long-term basis and giving a set of clear objectives specified in a forest management plan. In Northern Ireland, FMU’s are managed by the Forest Service Northern Ireland.

Forest Nature Reserves (FNR) are designated by the Forest Service Northern Ireland. They are not as significant as the National Nature Reserves in that they consist of habitats that are much more common, but they are nonetheless a valuable resource for conservation and education.

The Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) initiative is an agri-environment scheme operated by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Northern Ireland in compliance with EU conservation policy. ESA sites are predominantly aimed at habitat and wildlife protection, which is achieved by placing restrictions on potentially damaging farming activity so that agricultural practice is in harmony with nature. ESA sites also deliver valuable geological protection by prohibiting the removal of bedrock, loose boulders or drift deposits such as sands and gravels from farmland.

The Rural Environmental Protection Scheme (REPS) is the equivalent of ESA in the Republic of Ireland and delivers similar levels of protection.

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B7 Site management data Site management data is included with the full list of geological sites in Appendix 2.

B8 List and description of non-geological sites Below is a selected list of sites and their theme of interest within the Geopark area. Each of these sites has played a key part in the changing landscapes of County Fermanagh and County Cavan. A full list of these sites is included within Appendix 1.

Number of Sites Site Prehistoric Settlers • Cavan Burren* (Figure B8.1, B8.2 and B8.3) • Aghanaglack Court Tomb (Figure B8.4) • Cuilcagh Cairn • Cushrush Island Mesolithic finds • Killykeegan stone enclosure • Moneygashel cashel • Ross Lough crannog

Christian Heritage • Boho churches • Drumlane Abbey (Figure B8.5) • Kilmore Cathedral holywell • Trinity Island • Inishmacsaint

Folklore • Cavan Burren*•Hanging Rock • Maggie’s Hole (Figure B8.6) • Maguire’s Chair (Figure B8.7) • Shannon Pot

Biodiversity • Annagh Lough • Cladagh Glen damp ash woodland (Figure B8.8) • Correl Glen nature reserve • Cuilcagh Mountain blanket bog • Doohatty Glebe • Garvagh Lough • Lough Naman bog nature reserve • Lough Oughter • Lurgan River wood (Figure B8.9) • Ross Lough nature reserve • Whitefathers cave

Agricultural heritage • Maguire’s cottage (Figure B8.10) • Lime kilns • Sweat houses (B8.11) • Lazy beds

Castles & fortifications • Castle Caldwell • Clough Oughter Castle (Figure B8.12) • Castle (Figure B8.13) • • Turbet Island • Cavan Burren*

* The Cavan Burren is a partially-forested ‘super-site’ that contains over 30 examples of archeological monuments and historical sites as well as a wealth of geological interest. It is therefore included in more than one category.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 12 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section B

Figure B8.1 The Calf House portal tomb in the Figure B8.2 Court tomb in the Burren Forest Burren Forest

Figure B8.3 Rock art at the Burren Forest Figure B8.4 Aghanaglack Court Tomb

Figure B8.5 Drumlane Abbey and graveyard

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section B

Figure B8.7 Maguire's Chair

Figure B8.6 Maggie's Hole (mid left)

Figure B8.8 Cladagh Glen damp ash woodland

Figure B8.9 Lurgan River Wood semi-natural woodland Figure B8.10 Maguires Cottage

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section B

Figure B8.11 Sweathouse at Gowlan Figure B8.12 Clough Oughter Castle

Figure B8.13 Monea Castle

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section C Arguments for nominating the region as a European Geopark

C1 Analysis of the region’s economically sustainable geotourism Fermanagh District Council together with Cavan County Council consider their proposals to extend the current Marble Arch Caves European Geopark to be of prime strategic importance. The Geopark expansion clearly fits well with regional and cross-border development strategies and with UNESCO’s ongoing development strategy for Geoparks. It is clear that the proposed territory is extremely interesting in view of the development activities linked to the area’s environmental resources and in particular its “geotourism”.

As clearly illustrated in section B of this application, the expansion area contains a very fine array of geological and geomorphological features of international, national and regional importance as well as a notable variety of ecological, cultural and historical sites. This proposed expansion provides an opportunity to create a unique product as a result of a new synergy that has been created between local authority partners on both sides of the Irish border. This synergy is creating multiple outcomes, not least the economic spin-off from inward tourism and local investment resulting from this shared venture.

The current Marble Arch Caves European Geopark in County Fermanagh makes a significant contribution to the regional economy through tourism and is used extensively for environmental education and countryside recreation. The proposal to expand the Geopark is a key element of Fermanagh District Council’s long-term tourism development strategy for County Fermanagh and also fits well with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s tourism development strategy based on “Winning Themes and Signature Projects”.

In order to improve the attractiveness of the proposed expansion area, Cavan County Council has carried out extensive works to improve existing well-used sites and to open up other sites through the creation of suitable paths and car parking. Sites have been enhanced with new interpretative panels and informative materials that enable the visitor to better understand and appreciate the outstanding natural, historical and cultural features of the area, see Appendix 8.

The Marble Arch Caves European Geopark and the proposed expansion area offer a wide and varied programme of events throughout the year. The visitor and tourist to the region can choose from many different types of high quality accommodation present such as luxury hotels, farmhouse bed & breakfasts, hostels and self-catering chalets.

Within the area the visitor and tourist can delight their taste buds with wonderful local produce of cheese, poultry, game, bacon, honey and mineral water. Visitors can experience fine dining in many of the award winning restaurants that pride themselves on the use of local ingredients, including Neven Maguires’s Macnean Bistro in Blacklion and the Old Post Inn in Cloverhill, both recipients of the Georgina Campbell’s Restaurant of the Year award.

Farmers showcase local produce at three Farmer’s Markets (Enniskillen, Cavan and Belturbet), in addition to many annual agricultural shows and fairs that are held throughout the region in the summer months.

Within the region there is a strong craft network that supports individual craftspeople in acquiring the business skills necessary to market their crafts. One of County Fermanagh’s major exports is Belleek Pottery and visitors and tourists to the region can view and purchase local crafts at the Butter Market in Enniskillen. Many of the craftspeople take advantage of the rich natural resources available in the region in the production of their wares.

The Marble Arch Caves European Geopark offers an experience showcasing the various elements (geological, naturalistic, cultural, gastronomic, people, etc.) that makes a visit to this region so unique.

The National Development Plan 2007 - 2013 for the Republic of Ireland places great emphasis on cross-border co-operation in tourism development, geosciences and other fields where the Geopark will have great relevance. The Geological Survey of Ireland has received limited funding under the National Development Programme 2007- 2013 to support initiatives in Geo-heritage and Geoparks. Application has been successful under this programme and financial support from the Geological Survey of Ireland is available to contribute towards the provision of appropriate professional geological expertise pending agreement with Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 13 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section C Arguments for nominating the region as a European Geopark

In addition, The National Development Plan 2007 - 2013 has made a financial commitment to market Ireland internationally as a tourist destination; with specific budget allocations for product development and infrastructure, training and human resources and cultural infrastructure.

County Cavan lies within the North West Tourism region but in comparison with other tourism regions, performance in the North West has been relatively poor largely due to the negative impacts and close proximity of the Northern Ireland conflict. In 2006, 89,000 overseas tourists visited county Cavan generating income of approximately €27 million. Angling has long been County Cavan’s major niche market but Cavan County Council has shown considerable foresight by working to widen the tourism appeal of the county. Following on from peace in Northern Ireland new niche markets are now emerging in Cavan in the areas of heritage, culture and environment. There are a number of regional tourism projects in the region including the Bréifne Project, Green Box, Erne Lakelands Tourism and Lough MacNean Tourism Initiative. Several of these projects are already stakeholders in the Geopark or have expressed a desire to contribute to its development.

Like Fermanagh District Council, Cavan County Council recognises that geotourism has the potential to make a significant contribution to the regional economy through Cavan’s internationally important geology and landscapes as well as their associated provision for tourism, conservation and education.

These natural resources and human resources are being used in a sustainable way to promote the economic, social, environmental and cultural development of the county.

Section D Management Structure: Management Partners, Strategic Participants and Supporting Organisations.

D1 Marble Arch Caves European Geopark: Management Partners The existing Marble Arch Caves European Geopark is managed by Fermanagh District Council. If this application is successful then the Geopark will be expanded on an international, cross-border basis from County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland into County Cavan in the Republic of Ireland. Fermanagh District Council will recognise Cavan County Council as its management partner within the cross-border Geopark under the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding. No other bodies or organisations will have any management or co-ordination responsibility for the cross-border Marble Arch Caves European Geopark.

The individual and joint responsibilities of both management partners are outlined below:

Fermanagh District Council (www.fermanagh.gov.uk) is the statutory local government authority for County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland including responsibility for tourism development in the County. Since 1985 Fermanagh District Council has been operating world-class geotourism facilities at Marble Arch Caves European Geopark. Fermanagh District Council has been the sole management authority of the Marble Arch caves European Geopark since 2001 and remains as the sole management authority for all parts of the expanded Geopark within County Fermanagh. Fermanagh District Council has an established track record gained from long experience in the management of the existing Marble Arch Caves European Geopark and has also been a very significant investor in the Geopark. In this context Fermanagh District Council will be the lead partner in implementing this application, and in assisting Cavan County Council as its joint applicant partner to collectively progress and develop the expanded cross-border Geopark.

Cavan County Council (www.cavancoco.ie) is the statutory local government authority responsible for the delivery of a wide range of public services in County Cavan in the Republic of Ireland, including the provision of infrastructure services as well as services necessary to the physical, economic, social and cultural life of the county which involves the development of industry, business and tourism as well as social, arts and cultural affairs in the county. Cavan County Council is the sole management authority for all parts of the expanded Geopark proposed within County Cavan.

The two Councils are jointly responsible for managing the common activities necessary to develop and maintain a successful international geopark. These activities include long-term budget provision, joint staffing, liaison, forward planning, strategic direction, development, events and marketing.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 14 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section D iueD1.1 Figure aaeetDiagram Management

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section D Management Structure: Management Partners, Strategic Participants and Supporting Organisations.

The overall Geopark will be overseen by a Joint Committee made up of senior officers and elected members of both Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council who will deal with the strategic direction of the expanded Geopark. A Geopark Management Unit made up of staff from Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council will deal with management and development issues associated with the Geopark headed by the Geopark Manager. Some members of the proposed Geopark Management Unit are already working across the entire proposed cross-border Geopark while the Unit as a whole will essentially deliver effective management across the entire cross-border geopark. The management structure for the expanded international Geopark can be seen in the diagram figure D1.1.

Other bodies and organisations have roles to play, where appropriate, in the operation and development of the Geopark as either strategic participants or supporting organisations. Typically these roles include nature protection and conservation, marketing, events, education, access to the countryside, etc.

D2Strategic Participants The expanded, international geopark is being achieved with the active strategic participation of two key organisations - The Forest Service of Northern Ireland and Coillte Teoranta (refer to hereafter as Coillte) the semi- state forestry agency for the Republic of Ireland. Both organisations are bringing geologically significant and strategically important areas of land into the Geopark. While these organisations are retaining ownership of their land they have agreed that both Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council can respectively use their land for appropriate Geopark activities and related purposes. Neither the Forest Service nor Coillte have direct management responsibility for the Geopark.

Forest Service (NI) (www.forestserviceni.gov.uk) is an agency of the Department of Agriculture & Rural Development of Northern Ireland and is the biggest landowner in County Fermanagh. It owns large areas of land in west Fermanagh, which are of great importance to the environment and to the timber industry within Northern Ireland. Many of these land areas were incorporated into the Geopark area following the successful outcome of an application in 2007 for the second phase expansion of the Geopark. Fermanagh District Council is working with Forest Service to carry out the necessary management, monitoring and maintenance of the access infrastructure contained within the expanded Geopark area.

Coillte (www.coillte.ie) is a commercial semi-state company owned by the Ministry for Finance and the Ministry for Agriculture and Food that manages the forests owned by the Irish Government. The Forest Service (of the Department of Agriculture and Food) is the body who administer forestry grants, approve afforestation proposals, and approve felling licences. Coillte owns over 1 million acres of land in the Republic of Ireland, most of which is forested. While timber is the principal product of Coillte forests they also provide a wide range of tourism products and services including forest recreation, hunting and fishing, and motorsports. There is a significant Coillte-owned forest in County Cavan in the proposed expansion area of the Geopark that incorporates the Cavan Burren. The Cavan Burren continues to be an operational forest but public access, recreational facilities and certain conservation aspects are being managed by Cavan County Council.

D3Supporting Organisations A number of organisations are supporting the aims and objectives of the expanded, international Geopark. While these organisations have no responsibility for the management of the Geopark, both Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council are working with them where appropriate to further the aims and objectives of the expanded, international Geopark. Some of these organisations are listed below:

Environment and Heritage Service (www.ehsni.gov.uk) is the UK government body responsible for managing Earth Science and Nature conservation within Northern Ireland. Among other functions it is responsible for designating, monitoring and protecting sites of both international and national importance in Northern Ireland. In addition the Environment & Heritage Service owns or manages several National Nature Reserves in the region, which are included within the existing Geopark. The Environment and Heritage Service retains management control of its property and offers appropriate geotourism and education activities and events within the Geopark umbrella.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 15 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section D Management Structure: Management Partners, Strategic Participants and Supporting Organisations.

The Geological Survey of Northern Ireland and the Geological Survey of Ireland both have a long history of working with the Geopark to promote geotourism and education. Both organisations continue to provide appropriate support to the Geopark and have an active interest in expanding the Geopark on a cross-border basis.

Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism is the official body responsible for the marketing and promotion of tourism in County Fermanagh and has an integral role in the marketing of both the existing and proposed cross-border Geopark. Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism operates from the main tourist information centre in Enniskillen, which is the capital of County Fermanagh.

Cavan Tourism is the official body responsible for the marketing and promotion of tourism in County Cavan and has an important role in the marketing of the proposed cross-border Geopark. Cavan Tourism works from Cavan County Council’s headquarters in the county capital of Cavan town and operates the main tourist information centre, which is located in the county library buildings.

The Heritage Council is tasked within the Republic of Ireland with proposing policies and priorities for the identification, protection, preservation and enhancement of the national heritage including architectural heritage, flora, fauna, wildlife habitats, landscapes, seascapes, wrecks, geology, heritage gardens, parks and inland waterways. The Council has a particular responsibility to promote interest, education, knowledge and pride in the national heritage. The Heritage Council is working in partnership with Cavan County Council within the expanded Geopark area.

The Field Studies Council is the leading environmental education charity in the United Kingdom. Their Field Studies Centre at in County Fermanagh is their first centre in Ireland and was established with both financial and lobbying support from Fermanagh District Council. The Derrygonnelly Field Centre regularly uses a number of sites within the Geopark for education purposes and is one of the key providers of environmental education within the Geopark.

The Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre is operated by the Western Education and Library Board, which is the central government body responsible for education in the western area of Northern Ireland. Gortatole OEC has a long-standing working relationship with the Geopark in delivering environmental education and makes widespread use of geopark sites in both Fermanagh and Cavan.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is the largest wildlife charity in Europe and has a long-term co-operative association with Fermanagh District Council through the Geopark. RSPB manage and/or monitor a number of environmental sites within the Geopark on behalf of Fermanagh District Council and have worked closely with the Council on a number of significant conservation projects. RSPB are providing essential advice on appropriate environmental conservation and habitat protection within the Geopark.

The Bréifne Mountains Company (www.Bréifne.ie) is a private company limited by guarantee that was established as a cross-border initiative between the county councils of Cavan, Leitrim, Roscommon and Sligo (in the Republic of Ireland), Fermanagh District Council (in Northern Ireland), Cavan County Enterprise Board and the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland and the Geological Survey of Ireland. The aim of Breifne is to promote tourism based on the natural and cultural heritage of the region. Bréifne has acted as facilitators with regard to the proposed cross-border expansion of the Geopark and both Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council are working with Breifne, where appropriate, to source EU funding, to organise events and to carry out marketing activities linked to the Geopark.

There are a number of other organisations including the Green Box eco-tourism initiative, the National Trust, tourism providers, community groups, schools and voluntary organisations who can also play a role in supporting the aims and objectives of the Geopark.

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E1Geological Organisations There are several key geological organisations involved with research, education and conservation in the proposed expansion area of the Geopark.

Geological Survey of Northern Ireland (GSNI) (www.bgs.ac.uk/gsni) is on office of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for Northern Ireland (DETI). The survey is responsible for providing a wide range of geological advice and information in support of planning, land use and natural resource assessment. GSNI have had a long-standing relationship with both the current Geopark area and the expanded Geopark area, including providing staff and resources.

Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) (www.gsi.ie) is the National Earth Science Agency in the Republic of Ireland. It is responsible for providing geological advice and information, and for the acquisition of data for this purpose. GSI produces a range of products including maps, reports and databases and acts as a knowledge centre and project partner in all aspects of Irish geology. Both GSNI and GSI have a long history of working in partnership to promote the geological heritage of the island of Ireland.

The Limestone Research Group of the University of Birmingham (formerly of the University of Huddersfield) has been intensively engaged in various scientific studies in the Cuilcagh Mountain region of both Fermanagh and Cavan for most of the last thirty years. These ongoing scientific studies include cave science, underground and surface hydrology, peatland research and slope stability investigations. The Limestone Research Group has been employed by Fermanagh District Council as external environmental advisors since 1992. The LRG is headed by Professor John Gunn who is widely recognised as one of the World’s leading Cave Scientists. Professor Gunn has carried out a number of evaluation visits to natural history based World Heritage Sites on behalf of UNESCO.

The Speleological Union of Ireland (SUI) is the official representative body for cavers in Ireland and exists to encourage safe caving and to promote the conservation of Irish caves. The SUI organises training in conjunction with its sister body the Irish Cave Rescue Organisation in many of the caves in Cavan and Fermanagh and also produces a quarterly newsletter for cavers. (www.cavingireland.org)

Earth Science 2000 (ES2K) is a charity that was set up to promote the awareness of earth science throughout the island of Ireland. ES2K regularly distribute their information through the Geopark and also attend events and publish articles on any relevant Geopark activities that are being organised.

The Belfast Geologists Association regularly organise fieldtrips to the Geopark area often led by Geopark staff (Figure E1.1 and E1.2), as well as attending lectures and guided walks that are organised.

The has worked with the Geopark to provide temporary exhibitions to be displayed at the Geopark during European Geopark Week and during other special events. Representatives from the Geopark have also participated in the Ulster Museum’s Rocky Roadshow (Figure E1.3), which attracts over 2000 visitors over one weekend.

The National Museum of Ireland in Dublin has worked with the Geopark to provide permanent and temporary exhibitions to be displayed at the Geopark. Representatives of the Geopark have also spoken at the Museum during Heritage Week.

E2Educational and Scientific Activities Many activities have taken place in both the existing and proposed expansion area of the Geopark in recent times.

Research, information and education scientific activity Relevant General Publications McCabe, M. & Dunlop, P. (2006). The Last Glacial Termination in Northern Ireland. Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, Belfast.

Mitchell, W.I. (Ed.) (2004). Geology of Northern Ireland: Our Natural Foundation. Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, Belfast.

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Legg, I.C., Johnston, T.P., Mitchell, W.I. & Smith, R.A. (1998). The geology of the country around Derrygonnelly and Marble Arch. Memoir for 1:50,000 Geological Sheets 44, 56 and 43 (Northern Ireland). Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, Belfast.

Harney, S., Long, C.B. & MacDermott, C.V. (1996). Geology of Sligo - Leitrim: A Geological Description of Sligo, Leitrim and adjoining parts of Cavan, Fermanagh, Mayo and Roscommon, with accompanying Bedrock Geology 1:100,000 Scale Map, Sheet 7, Sligo - Leitrim. Geological Survey of Ireland, Dublin.

Recent Academic Papers Dykes, A.P. & Kirk, K.J. (2006). Slope instability and mass movements in peat deposits. In: Martini, I P, Martínez Cortizas, A and Chesworth, W (Eds.), Peatlands: Evolution and Records of Environmental and Climatic Changes. Elsevier, Amsterdam.

Yang, J. and Dykes, A.P. (2006). ‘The liquid limit of peat and its application to the understanding of Irish blanket bog failures’. Landslides.

Gunn, J. (2002). The UK’s first European Geopark. Earth heritage, 18, 18-20.

Kelly, J.G., I. Enlander, A.M. Kelly & T. Fogg (2002). The geological setting, hydrology and ecology of Roosky Turlough, Ely, Co. Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Cave & Karst Science, 29 (3): 105-110.

Clark, C.D. & Meehan, R.T. (2001). Subglacial bedform geomorphology of the Irish Ice Sheet reveals major configuration changes during growth and decay. Journal of Quaternary Science, 16 (5): 483-496.

Dykes, A.P. & Kirk, K.J. (2001). Initiation of a multiple peat slide on Cuilcagh Mountain, Northern Ireland. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 26, 395-408.

Dykes, A.P. & Kirk, K.J. (2000). Morphology and interpretation for a recent multiple peat slide event on Cuilcagh Mountain, Northern Ireland. In Bromhead, E, Dixon, R and Ibsen, M-L (Eds.), Landslides in Research, Theory and Practice (Vol. 1). Thomas Telford, London, 495-500.

Gunn, J. (2000). Karst catchment protection : The Cuilcagh Mountain Park initiative, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. In: Barany-Kevei, I & Gunn, J. (Eds.) Essays in the ecology and conservation of karst, Special issue of Acta Geographica Szegedensis, XXXVI, 121-133.

Meehan R.T. (1999). Directions of ice flow during the last glaciation in counties Meath, Westmeath and Cavan, Ireland. Irish Geography, 32(1): 26–51.

Limestone Research Group The Limestone Research Group of the University of Birmingham (formerly of the University of Huddersfield) has been intensively engaged in various scientific studies in the expanded Geopark area for most of the last thirty years. These ongoing scientific studies include cave science, underground and surface hydrology, peatland research and slope stability investigations. This work has prompted an impressive list of publications, articles, posters and lectures by Professor Gunn and others in scientific journals and at scientific conferences all over the world.

Groundwater Protection Scheme The Geological Survey of Ireland and Cavan County Council are currently undertaking a Groundwater Protection Scheme Project. The aim of the project is to preserve the quality of groundwater for drinking water purposes, for the benefit of present and future generations.

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Postgraduate Research There is currently one PhD being carried out in the expanded Geopark area by Mr Brian Parry (Geology & Oceanography) of the University of Huddersfield. His doctoral research is on the origin of limestone pedestals with particular reference to the Norber erratics. Previous PhD and MSc studies have looked at various aspects of the geology and environment of the Geopark area.

Environmental Education Several organisations are responsible for facilitating environmental education within the expanded Geopark area. They include:

Marble Arch Caves European Geopark (Figure E1.4), the Field Studies Council (Derrygonnelly Field Centre), the Western Education and Library Board (Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre), Fermanagh County Museum, Cavan County Council and The Heritage Council. Environmental education is aimed at the following groups:

• Primary and secondary schools • Universities • Adult education groups • Underprivileged youth groups • Professional organisations • Tourist groups • Retired groups • Youth groups • Field clubs

Some notable examples of educational activities within the Geopark are outlined below:

• The current Marble Arch Caves European Geopark offers formal environmental education programmes ranging from primary school children to secondary education. The Geopark is a named fieldwork destination for both the national curricula of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland due to the quality of educational facilities provided.

• Marble Arch Caves European Geopark hosted an environmental education workshop for the European Geoparks Network in April 2006 due to their high quality education products. This workshop was attended by representatives from a variety of European Geoparks.

• The existing Geopark area was chosen as a fieldtrip site for the Earth Science Teachers’ Association (ESTA) conference in September 2007. This was the first time that ESTA came to Ireland and is an indication of how highly valued Irish geology has become for earth science education.

• The existing Geopark area recently hosted staff from several Universities from both the UK and Ireland as part of a familiarization visit to encourage staff to choose the expanded Geopark area as a fieldtrip destination (Figures E1.5 and E1.6). Of the institutions that attended the trip, over half of them have already planned a return visit.

A selection of educational materials available for the Geopark area can be seen in the Publications Appendix (Appendix 4).

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Guided Tours Guided tours are held throughout the existing and proposed expansion area of the Geopark at various times throughout the year offering a variety of ways to see the Geopark, including walks, coach trips and 4-wheel drive safaris.

Tour Description Date Figure Geotrek 31 May 2005 E2.1 Geotrek 3 June 2005 Riverside Ramble 6 August 2005 Glacial Trail 13 August 2005 Myths & Legends Walk 20 August 2005 Fossil Forage - Children’s Walk 27 August 2005 E2.2 Heritage Open Day Guided Walk 10 September 2005 Highlands of Cavan Guided Tour September 2005 International Biodiversity Day Walk 3 March 2006 Fossil Tours - Family Walk 29 May 2006 Journey from the Bottom of the Sea 4 June 2006 Landscape & Livelihoods Walks 2, 9, 16 August 2006 Fossil Forage - Children’s Walk 27 August 2006 Heritage Open Day Guided Walk 9 September 2006 Alpine Cavan Guided Tour September 2006 Irish Geology Week Walk in the Cavan Burren 6 May 2007 E2.3 Dawn Chorus Walk in Killashandra 21 May 2007 Biodiversity Day Walk on Cuilcagh Mountain 22 May 2007 Biodiversity Day Walk in the Cavan Burren 23 May 2007 E2.4 World Environment Day Tour of Cuilcagh Bog 5 June 2007 Guided Walk in the Cladagh Glen (part of European Geopark Week) 9 June 2007 International Bog Day landrover tour 29 July 2007 Shannon Pot Walk 5 August 2007 Ely Lodge Nature Walk 12 August 2007 E2.5 Geopark Safari around Cuilcagh Mountain 2 September 2007 E2.6 Landrover track tour of Cuilcagh Mountain Park 8 September 2007 Limestone landscape walking trail 9 September 2007

Adult Education Courses These are currently run in conjunction with the Field Studies Council in Derrygonnelly with a course planned in conjunction with the Queen’s University of Belfast beginning in Autumn 2008.

Course Name Level Dates Geotrek Beginner 10-12 February 2007 & 26-28 October 2006 Fossil Focus Beginner 20-22 July 2007 & 2-4 March 2007 The Carboniferous World Intermediate 3-5 August 2007 & 2-4 November 2007 Beginners Geology Beginner Autumn 2008

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Family Events Family events are aimed at children and their families with the objective of encouraging them to find out a bit more about their natural heritage through fun and interactive activities.

Topic Venue Dates Fantastic Fermanagh Fossils Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre 2 May 2005 Geopark Treasure Hunt Cladagh Glen NNR 4/5 June 2005 Junior Geologists Weekend Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre 27,28,29 August 2005 Fossil Making Weekend Derrygonnelly Field Studies Centre March 2006 Rocky Roadshow Ulster Museum, Belfast September 2005 Fantastic Fermanagh Fossils (Fig. E2.7) Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre 1 May 2006 The Ice Age Experience Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre 8/9 July 2006 Junior Geologists Weekend Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre 26,27,28 August 2006 Golden Mile Competition Ballyhugh Arts & Cultural Centre January 2007 Fossil Fun Day Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre 7 May 2007 Family Biodiversity Day Cavan Burren 27 May 2007 Traditional craft day Ballyhugh Arts Centre 25 August 2007 Megalithic Mania Cavan Burren 26 August 2007 Correl Glen Scavenger Hunt (Fig. E2.8) Correl Glen nature reserve 27 August 2007 Heritage Week (Fig. E2.9 to Fig. E2.12)Throughout 25 Aug. to 1 Sept. 2007

Talks and presentations Talks are given by a variety of Geopark staff throughout the year. This is especially useful during the winter months when visitor numbers diminish due to inclement weather conditions so it is an alternative way of potential visitors finding out about the region.

Topic Venue Date 2006 Geoparks & Conservation Marble Arch Caves April 1 European Geoparks Queen’s University Belfast May 31 Marble Arch Caves EG Field Studies Centre June 19 Geopark Fossils Marble Arch Caves June 27 Geopark Fossils Crossgar Primary School June 28 Geopark Geology Marble Arch Caves July 19 Celts & Christians Marble Arch Caves August 9 Families & Folklore Marble Arch Caves August 16 Marble Arch Caves EG National Museum, Dublin August 30 Marble Arch Caves Outreach International Geoparks Conference September 17 2007 Beginners Geology University of Ulster February 5 Future Geopark Expansion IGRM Coleraine February 24 Earth Science Careers University of Brighton February 26 Future Geopark Expansion Coillte March 20 European Geoparks Customs House, April 26

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Topic Venue Date 2007 Druids & Drumlins Johnston Library, Cavan May 3 European Geoparks Bush Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon May 13 Geology & Geopark Expansion Lough Navar Forest May 17 Geopark Information Evening Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen May 29 Geopark Information Evening Ballyhugh Arts Centre June 14 University Geology Field Studies Centre August 20 Geopark Expansion North-West Highlands European Geopark September 16 Marble Arch Caves EG Cabo de Gata European Geopark October 22 Marble Arch Caves EG Sierra Subbeticas European Geopark October 24 Geopark Expansion Sligo Institute of Technology October 28

Information Centres and Exhibitions The Geopark area has a number of sites where visitors can obtain information about the Geopark and the activities and sites that can be accessed. Several of these sites are Tourist Information Centres but there are also Visitor Centres and Heritage Centres that also contain information.

• Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre is the existing base for the operational activities of the Geopark. The Centre contains many detailed exhibitions on the natural and cultural heritage of the Geopark.

• Tourist Information Centres can be visited in both Enniskillen and Cavan and provide information on general tourist facilities as well as the Geopark.

• Cavan County Museum is located in the town of and contains information on the heritage of areas within the Geopark.

• Fermanagh County Museum contains exhibits and displays on all aspects of natural and cultural heritage within County Fermanagh.

• Market House and Blacklion Market House both provide information on the local heritage in those areas of County Cavan.

• There are several arts and cultural centres in County Cavan within the proposed expansion area of the Geopark including: Ballyhugh Arts & Cultural Centre, Belturbet Railway Station, and Community Council Office. All of these centres provide information on local heritage and often offer workshops on traditional arts and cultural activities.

• Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre has an interesting exhibition on the history of the pottery including the origins of the raw materials used in the craft.

• The Field Studies Centre in Derrygonnelly and Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre are environmental education establishments that offer accommodation as well as interesting displays on the local area.

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Temporary Exhibitions A number of temporary exhibitions have been on display at the Geopark and are scheduled for the coming months.

• Wild Trials Extinct. This exhibition is currently on loan from the National Museum Dublin. This exhibition examines a variety of animal species that once inhabited Ireland but are now extinct on the island but can be found elsewhere in the world at the present day. This exhibition was organized in conjunction with RTÉ, Ireland’s national television and radio broadcaster.

• Limestone Landscapes. This exhibition has been organized as an international cross-border project between the Environment and Heritage Service in Northern Ireland and the National Parks and Wildlife Service in the Republic of Ireland. It focuses on the international importance of limestone landscapes with particular emphasis on Ireland and has many references to the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark. It is currently on display at the ENFO Environmental Information Centre in Dublin and will be coming to the Geopark as part of International Year of Planet Earth.

Interpretation panels and leaflets There are interpretative panels at many of the key geosites within the existing and proposed area of the Geopark. A full inventory including examples of these can be found in Appendix 3.

There are a variety of leaflets associated with many of the geosites and trails. A full inventory including examples of these can be seen in the Publications Appendix (Appendix 4).

Trails Trails are an integral part of the Geopark. Lists of the existing walks and trails that can be found within the area are listed below. Many of these walks and trails have associated publications which are included within the Publications Appendix (Appendix 4). Directional markers are also an integral part of these walks and trails and images have been included for these which have been indicated accordingly.

Walk Cuilcagh Series Associated Publication Panel Activity (if applicable)

Walk Cuilcagh Series Walk Cuilcagh Walking (10 walks around Cuilcagh)

Explore Cuilcagh Explore Cuilcagh Touring Kingfisher Cycle Trail Kingfisher Cycle TrailSeveral Cycling The Cuilcagh Way The Cuilcagh Way Walking The (Fig. E2.13) The Cavan Way Walking Drumlin Drive Geopark Tours Touring Cuilcagh Geopark Tours Touring West Fermanagh Geopark Tours Touring Upper Lough Erne Scenic Drive Upper Lough Erne Touring 25 Walks in Fermanagh Walking in Fermanagh Walking Florencecourt Forest Trails N/AYes Walking Lough Navar Forest Drive (Fig. E2.14) N/AYes Touring Belturbet County Trail N/AYes Walking Belturbet Town Trail N/AYes Walking Canal Trail N/AYes Walking Swanlinbar Trail N/AYes Walking Shannon-Erne Waterway Waterway Waterway Directional Signs (Fig. E2.15 & Fig. E2.16) N/A Walking Killykeen Forest Walks & Trails N/AYes Walking

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 23 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section E Description of existing geological institutions and activities

E3 Marketing, Public Relations and Community Integration

E3.1 Marketing & Public Relations Marketing is key to the successful development of any geopark as it is of little use having a world-class facility if potential visitors are not aware of its existence. Marketing is also essential to raise public awareness of the aims and objectives of the Geopark and to create a local ‘sense of ownership’ of the Geopark whereby local people support the aspirations of the Geopark. The marketing of the cross-border Marble Arch Caves European Geopark will be carried out by the Geopark Management Unit with the support of national and regional tourism marketing organisations.

Over the past few years, the Geopark has received large amounts of Public Relations exposure through both the local and national media.

E3.2 Community Integration The Geopark has been integrated into the community through a variety of media as indicated below:

Fermanagh Integrated County Strategy Fermanagh District Council actively encourages community integration within all aspects of Council activity through its Community Development section. The Council operates a Community Relations Policy in order to encourage contact, co-operation and understanding between different members of the community.

County Cavan Development Board Cavan County Development Board (CDB) was established in April 2000 and consists of twenty-seven members drawn from Local Government, Local Development Bodies, the State Agencies and Social Partners. The objective was to prepare a comprehensive strategy for the economic, social & cultural development of County Cavan. In March 2002, the CDB launched its agreed Strategy, a ‘Shared vision’, for the Economic, Social and Cultural Development of the County. The strategy is divided into seven sections one of which is tourism within which the Geopark features heavily.

County Cavan Community Forum There are 28 members nominated to the Community Forum from the 4 Area Forums which exist in the district electoral divisions of Belturbet, , Ballyjamesduff & Cavan. To date there are 186 groups registered with the County Forum which is supported by the Community & Enterprise Office, Cavan County Council. In 2005 the County Forum established 4 sub-groups which include a culture & heritage subgroup which is involved with Geopark activities.

County Cavan Heritage Forum Cavan County Council recognises that its heritage has shaped and influenced greatly the communities and the people of the county. Cavan County Heritage Forum comprises statutory, local government, local development, landowner representatives and the community and voluntary sectors and are responsible for delivering Cavan County Councils Heritage Plan of which the expanded Geopark is an integral part.

Geopark Information Events Geopark information evenings have been held in both County Fermanagh and Cavan to provide information on the ethos behind Geoparks and how the local communities can get involved.

Press and other media The Geopark is regularly promoted to the wider community through widespread coverage in the Press, television and radio as well as in specific in-house or external publications.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 24 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section E Description of existing geological institutions and activities

E3.3 Tourism Integration The Geopark is integrated with many of the tourism strategies already in place for the region. The proposal for extending the Geopark is a key element of Fermanagh District Council’s and Cavan County Council’s long-term tourism development strategies and also fits in very well with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s tourism development strategy and Failte Ireland’s tourism strategies. The Geopark works closely with the following local tourism organisations:

• Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism • Cavan Tourism • Failte Ireland • Northern Ireland Tourist Board

Section F Policies for the protection, enhancement and economic development of the geological heritage

F1Policies The general concerns regarding the conservation of geological heritage have been outlined in section B of this application.

Both Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Councils have active remits to promote sustainable development based tourism. The Councils are using the Geopark to offer a unique product, which is spreading the benefits of European Geopark status within County Fermanagh and ultimately on a cross-border international basis into County Cavan capitalising on the synergy of a strategic partnership.

Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council wish to apply for the agreement of both the UNESCO and the European Geoparks Network to their proposal to extend the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark to include significant sites in West Cavan and Central Cavan. Together Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council will use the extended Geopark to create significant social, economic, environmental and community benefits in the Irish border region.

The objectives of this proposal are to use the expanded Geopark as a management platform to:

• Increase the geotourism and recreational potential of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark through increased social use of geological heritage, with the attendant conservation, economic and community benefits within the region; • Co-ordinate the continuing development of strategic walking routes, trails and other countryside recreational opportunities; • Further enhance the geodiversity, biodiversity and natural environments of the region including additional measures to conserve geosites and natural habitats where appropriate; • Provide improved opportunities for the social use of state forests and to enhance public enjoyment of the geology and natural landscapes of the region; • Develop knowledge and understanding of geology, related Earth Sciences, endangered habitats and associated environmental issues; • Raise public awareness of woodlands and the role of Forest Service and Coillte as major producers of sustainable timber products and as environmental management authorities; • Encourage enquiry through fieldwork and scientific research; • Promote, strengthen and stimulate interest and pride in the heritage and culture of the region. • Demonstrate how the peaceful resolution of conflict and the subsequent building of trust can open up opportunities for international co-operation based on sustainable development of the environment.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 25 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section E

Figure E1.1 Belfast Geologists Society at the Figure E1.2 Belfast Geologists Society visiting Geopark limestone pavement

Figure E1.3 The Rocky Roadshow at the Ulster Figure E1.4 Primary school environmental Museum education

Figure E1.5 University familarisation visit at the Figure E1.6 University familiarisation visit with Ben Burren Forest Aughlin in the background

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section E

Figure E2.1 Geotrek during European Geopark Figure E2.2 Fossil Forage childrens walk Week

Figure E2.3 Irish Geology Week guided walk in the Figure E2.4 Biodiversity Day walk in the Burren Burren Forest Forest

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section E

Figure E2.5 Tree-hugging' as part of Geopark Figure E2.6 Geopark Safari at Tullydermot Falls Nature Walk in Ely Lodge Forest

Figure E2.7 The Ice Age Experience

Figure E2.8 Geopark treasure hunt

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section E

Figure E2.9 Family Biodiversity Day Figure E2.10 Traditional arts and crafts day at Ballyhugh Cultural Centre

Figure E2.12 Heritage Week 2007

Figure E2.11 Heritage Week 2007

Figure E2.13 The Cavan Way Directional Sign

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section E

Figure E2.14 Lough Navar scenic drive map

Figure E2.15 Directional signs in the Burren Forest Figure E2.16 Tullyhaw Heritage Trail directional sign

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section G General Information on the territory

G1 Economic Activity Sustainable economic development is the lifeblood of community building. Modern day economic development objectives focus on building strong inclusive communities supported by adequate services. Economic development is considered to be of primary importance in the achievement of making the Marble Arch European Geopark a better place in which to live and work.

Counties Fermanagh and Cavan are heavily dependent on the agricultural sector and have a long tradition in food and agribusiness industry such as meat, milk and poultry processing. Sustaining a vibrant healthy economy within the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark will:

• attract people to live and work; • encourage companies and employers to invest in the Geopark area; • generate investment in infrastructure, research and development, housing, sports and recreational facilities, education and training; • support sectors such as agriculture by identifying value added-processing opportunities and providing alternative employment to those unemployed and underemployed within the Geopark area; • create employment.

It is quite evident from the Cavan Tourism Strategy (2007) that the continuing development of County Cavan as a professional, organised and accessible tourism destination synonymous with an unspolit environment and excellent fishing, walking, food, culture and heritage is of paramount significance to the region. One of the major objectives of the Strategy is to significantly increase overseas tourist numbers to County Cavan.

Research indicates that the consumer wants an authentic experience to feel rejuvenated and relaxed whilst reconnecting with nature and in so doing be mentally stimulated. Given the above the proposed Geopark expansion clearly fits well with UNESCO’s ongoing strategy for Geoparks. The proposed cross-border expansion of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark provides powerful evidence that Geoparks can successfully use their UNESCO Geopark status to create further development opportunities that are of great significance to their regions.

Within Fermanagh and Cavan there are a number of existing tourism strengths: • Strong accommodation base • Heritage & Culture • Restaurants / gastronomy • Angling • Scenery of mountains, forests and lakes • Walking • Access • Conference facilities • Crafts • Greenbox - green accommodations • Environment

Whilst Cavan suffered declining visitor numbers and bed nights in recent years largely due to the negative impacts and proximity of the Northern Ireland conflict; future growth is forecast and there is significant under-exploited potential, particularly regarding opportunities in the cultural heritage, educational and recreational sectors.

The proposed cross-border expansion of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark has significant strengths, particularly regarding opportunities in the cultural, heritage and recreational sectors for both visitors and residents based on the environmental attractions of the area. The return visitor potential associated with the Marble Arch Caves and Lough Oughter, for example can be maximised by more joint marketing and the

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 26 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section G General Information on the territory

development of other facilities with this environmental theme. The attractions of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark and the marketing that supports it can also compliment the exceptional surrounding environment and activities and attractions such as the Cavan Burren, the Shannon Pot and other geotourism attractions in Cavan.

G2 Provision for the protection of the region At present all of the core land areas of the geopark and all of the geosites are either owned, leased or subject to suitable agreements negotiated by either Fermanagh District Council or Cavan County Council -the local authorities - and are managed either by the local authorities or by other governmental organisations and are therefore subject to a high level of protection. In addition there are various other international and national designations that protect many of the Geosites that have already been discussed in Section B6.

G3 Analysis of present status of protection of the region See Section B6.

G4 Existing Facilities A comprehensive listing of the existing facilities can be seen in Appendix 3.

G5 Future facilities planned

Development Plan: The original Marble Arch Caves European Geopark, as recognised by both UNESCO and the European Geoparks Network in 2001, operated within the wider economic development strategies and policies of Fermanagh District Council such as the Fermanagh Economic Development Strategy 1995-1999 or the People in Place 2010: Fermanagh Integrated County Development Strategy. The Geopark continues to function successfully as the most important element of Fermanagh District Council’s tourism infrastructure both in terms of visitor numbers and as a flagship for the wider tourism industry of County Fermanagh.

The recent September 2007 expansion of the Geopark within Northern Ireland by Fermanagh District Council, in conjunction with both the Forest Service and the Environment and Heritage Service, takes in 18,000 hectares of public land and allows the benefits of the Geopark to be spread over a much larger geographical area of County Fermanagh. Fermanagh District Council is working with these two government bodies to maximise the development potential of the expanded Geopark.

The proposed cross-border expansion of the Geopark, featuring Fermanagh District Council in partnership with Cavan County Council, is more modest in terms of the area of new land it can bring to the Geopark in comparison to the September 2007 expansion. However, the cross-border expansion is strategically important because it offers significant development benefits in terms of the economy, the environment and community relations. To a large extent these potential benefits arise from the positive impacts of peace in Northern Ireland, which is bringing with it important opportunities for cross-border co-operation in regard to sustainable development. Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council both recognise the benefits of cross-border co-operation and good neighbourliness and both Councils regard the Geopark as an ideal mechanism for integrated sustainable development in both counties.

It should be noted that the Irish Border region, including Fermanagh and Cavan, is presently a focus of international attention as a role model of reconciliation following decades of conflict. The region is also attracting major development funding, intended to facilitate reconciliation and regeneration processes, from international bodies such as the European Union and the International Fund for Ireland. Regeneration is of great importance given the negative impacts of many years of conflict. For example, the Republic of Ireland’s National Development Plan 2000-2006, Border Midlands and West Operational Programme (2.12 Co-operation with Northern Ireland) states that “It is generally recognised that these areas in Northern Ireland and the Border counties in the South (the Republic of Ireland) represent some of the most socially disadvantaged areas in both parts of the Island (of Ireland) and that their potential to develop has been significantly handicapped due to the manner in which the Border has constrained their development potential”.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 27 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section G General Information on the territory

With all this in mind, Fermanagh District Council is the Lead Partner in an active application, presently under consideration for major development funding in excess of €5M, under European Union INTERREG IV funding administered by the Irish Cross Border Area Network. Cavan County Council is one of the other key partners in the proposed INTERREG IV project, which is designed to facilitate integrated management, tourism, environmental and educational development strategies in the Border region with the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark as the central component. The INTERREG IV project fits well with a number of development strategies such as the National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020, which is a long-term planning framework that identifies spatial investment and development priorities intended to achieve balanced regional development within the Republic of Ireland.

The development objectives for the proposed cross border Geopark are as follows:

1. Ensure that the benefits of the Geopark are recognised and understood and contribute to regional development.

2. Highlight existing and potential links between the Geopark and the local economy, the environment and communities.

3. Encourage sustainable practices and demonstrate these in the activities of the Geopark.

4. Encourage appropriate joint working and cross-sectoral co-operation in meeting the objectives of the Geopark.

5. Support skills training and education programmes that assist the Geopark in meeting its conservation objectives or that promote wider awareness of the environment.

6. Promote environmentally and economically sustainable land management practices that maintain landscape character and quality.

7. Promote the concept of an integrated approach to sustainable development in the region.

8. Help to conserve local culture and traditions and promote a sense of place.

9. Bring about greater local ownership of environmental objectives and encourage fuller involvement in the Geopark’s activities.

10. Establish a sound information base and monitoring arrangements that will allow the Geopark management partners to evaluate the effectiveness of the Geopark’s actions.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 28 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Section H Conclusion

As this application dossier illustrates, the proposed cross-border expansion of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark contains an impressive array of geological heritage features in addition to fine archeological and ecological sites of interest. The proposed cross-border expansion area of the Geopark has been functioning as a de facto geopark for some time; the enhancement of existing natural heritage sites and the development of a diverse range of activities, outreach and environmental educational programmes has taken place across the region.

Fermanagh District Council and Cavan County Council have harnessed the potential of the natural resources this area has to offer to further the social, environmental, economic and cultural sustainable development of the proposed expansion area of the Geopark. Residents of the wider Geopark and the surrounding area have been actively participating, together with the Geopark partners, in the functioning and development of the Geopark in redefining the value of the region’s heritage and cultural revitalisation.

The proposed expansion of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark can be placed within the wider strategic context of conservation of the natural and cultural heritage that the area presents and will compliment the already functioning Geopark. This will create a stronger connection between geodiversity and the wider heritage in the protection of the natural resources and supporting the ever-increasing demand for an alternative source of tourism. The proposed expansion of the Geopark will help to integrate the socio-economic development opportunities of the area through different activities that will be best achieved by addressing local issues with resilience and confidence, creating a sense of commitment and optimism for the future.

If requested the applying Marble Arch Caves European Geopark will supply the Coordinating Unit of the European Geoparks Network with any further detail on the application submitted in this dossier.

Contact:

Mr. Richard Watson Manager Marble Arch Caves European Geopark Marlbank Florencecourt County Fermanagh Northern Ireland BT92 1EW

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 0044 28 66 348855 Fax: 0044 28 66 348928

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland 29 Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 1 Complete Site List

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 1 Complete Site List

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 2 Designations

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 2 Designations

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 3 Panels and Facilities

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 3 Panels and Facilities

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

Killykeegan Resource

Environmental Courses

Marble Arch Education Resource

Uni Field Trip

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

Geoparks 2006 Flyer

Geopark Summer Events 2006

European Geopark Week

European Geopark Week

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

European Geopark Week What's On Cavan

Geopark Summer Events 2007 What's On Fermanagh

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

GSI Education Monaghan-Carlingford Memoir.tif

Geopark Fossils

Derrygonnelly-Marble Arch Memoir

Burren archeological Survey >

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

Cavan Archaeology Inventory

Regional Guide Northern Ireland

Landslides in Ireland

Karst of Ireland

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

Cavan Touring Foldout Explore Cuilcagh

Cavan, Leitrim, Monaghan Tour Breifne Erne Waterway

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

Cavan Touring

Cuilcagh Tours

Four Counties Touring

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 4 Publications

Cavan Way

Kingfisher Cycle Trail

Cuilcagh Map

Walk Cuilcagh 25 Walks in Fermanagh

Cavan Touring

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 5 Map of Earth Science Review Sites (ESCR) within the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark in County Fermanagh

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 6 Map and Description of Irish Geological Heritage Sites within the proposed Extension of the Geopark into County Cavan

Irish Geological Heritage Programme

The Irish Geological Heritage (IGH) Programme is a partnership between The Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. It aims to identify, document, and protect the wealth of geological heritage in the Republic of Ireland and conserve it against ever increasing threats, and also to promote its value with the landowners and the public.

GSI provides scientific appraisal and interpretative advice on geological and geomorphological sites. GSI is also responsible for the identification of important sites that are capable of being conserved as Natural Heritage Areas (NHA).

The National Parks and Wildlife Service of The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government have the responsibility of designation and management of sites with appropriate advice from GSI.

The programme started only in the last few years and has evolved with examination of the inventory and protection processes operating in other European countries (including the active participation with colleagues in the European Association for the Conservation of the Geological Heritage, ProGEO).

The geological heritage of Ireland is considered and evaluated within an overall framework of sixteen themes:

IGH 1 - Karst (completed) IGH 2 - Precambrian to Devonian Palaeontology (completed) IGH 3 - Carboniferous to Pliocene Palaeontology (in progress) IGH 4 - Cambrian-Silurian IGH 5 - Precambrian IGH 6 - Mineralogy (in progress) IGH 7 - Quaternary (in progress) IGH 8 - Lower Carboniferous IGH 9 - Upper Carboniferous and Permian IGH 10 - Devonian IGH 11 - Igneous Intrusions IGH 12 - Mesozoic and Cenozoic IGH 13 - Coastal Geomorphology IGH 14 - Fluvial and Lacustrine Geomorphology IGH 15 - Economic Geology IGH 16 - Hydrogeology

Each theme considers specific aspects, such as stratigraphy, sedimentology, structural geology, volcanic rocks, etc. Each theme addresses all aspects of the particular geology involved, but some sites may be considered within two or more themes.

Under the IGH Programme, expert panels were set up for each theme, resulting in an indicative list of sites worthy of more detailed assessment within the relevant themes. This is a response to the present urgent demands for information for development projects, Environmental Impact Statements and planning.

The site lists are now undergoing a final assessment, with individual Site Reports being written by various panel experts, currently for the IGH6 Minerals and IGH7 Quaternary themes. The site reports will then be followed up by fieldwork to assign boundaries.

Of the majority of geological sites not eventually selected for NHA designation, some are being promoted as County Geological Sites (CGS), which have no statutory protection, but may be included within County Development Plans. Many counties have now adopted County Geological Sites into their development plans, and are promoting their interest through Heritage Plans.

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 6 Map and Description of Irish Geological Heritage Sites within the proposed Extension of the Geopark into County Cavan

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 6 Map and Description of Irish Geological Heritage Sites within the proposed Extension of the Geopark into County Cavan

Theme Site No: IGH1-36

Site Name: Western Cuilcagh Sheet No: 1:50,000

Summary Description: Extensive area of upland karst with evidence for pre-glacial karstification, extensive glacial modification and post-glacial reactivation of karst. Tertiary igneous intrusives exert a significant control on karstification and karst drainage. Karst springs and sinks are controlled by both upper and lower contacts of the host limestone sequence in different catchments.

IGHI Theme - Primary: IGH1 Karst

Theme Site No: IGH16

Site Name: The Shannon Pot

Sheet No: 1:50,000

Summary Description: spring, source of the River Shannon

IGHI Theme - Primary: IGH1 Karst IGH16 Hydrogeology

Theme Site No: IGH16

Site Name: ,

Sheet No: 1:50,000

Summary Description: artesian well. Unusual chemistry

IGHI Theme - Primary: IGH16 Hydrogeology

Theme Site No: IGHI - 49

Site Name: Pollprughlisk, East Cuilcagh

Sheet No: 1:50,000

Summary Description: Pollprughlisk is part of an integrated system of fracture controlled vertical caves connected by bedding controlled horizontal caves and is one of the best examples of this geomorphological feature in Ireland. The part of the system in Northern Ireland has been evaluated for its scientific interest.

IGHI Theme - Primary: IGH1 Karst

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 6 Map and Description of Irish Geological Heritage Sites within the proposed Extension of the Geopark into County Cavan

Theme Site No: IGH 14

Site Name: Lower Lough Erne

Sheet No: 1:50,000

Summary Description: drowned morainic landscape

IGHI Theme - Primary: IGH14 Fluvial / Lacustrine

Theme Site No: IGH 7

Site Name: Mid-Cavan

Sheet No: 1:50,000

Summary Description: ribbed moraines

IGHI Theme - Primary: IGH7 Quaternary

Theme Site No: IGH9

Site Name: Cuilcagh

Sheet No: 1:50,000

Summary Description: Namurian

IGH Theme - Primary: IGH1 Karst, IGH8 Lower Carboniferous, IGH9 Upper Carboniferous

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 8 Interpretative Panels at Proposed Geopark Sites in County Cavan

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 8 Interpretative Panels at Proposed Geopark Sites in County Cavan

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 9 Finance

Letter of Financial Commitment from Cavan County Council

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org Appendix 9 Finance - Fermanagh District Council Budget for Geopark

Fermanagh District Council

Fermanagh District Council provides the operational budget for all aspects of the existing Marble Arch Caves European Geopark such as salaries & wages, maintenance, publications, marketing, equipment, insurance, etc.

Fermanagh District Council will continue to provide the long-term budget commitment needed to support the operation of the proposed cross-border Geopark elements within county Fermanagh’s and its share of the cost of the common actions necessary to support the proposed cross-border Geopark will be met from annual Geopark budget allocations.

Indicative figures for current and projected budget allocations for the Geopark by Fermanagh District Council are given below in € euros:

2007 -08 2008 -09

Marble Arch Caves 792,000 798,000

Cuilcagh/Geopark 182,000 185,000

Other 34,000 40,000

TOTAL 1,008,000 1,023,000

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Republic of Ireland.

(Application submitted as a joint co-operative venture by both Fermanagh District Council in Northern Ireland and Cavan County Council in the Republic of Ireland)

An Application to Expand the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark on an International Basis into County Cavan in the Rep. of Ireland Обработено от Хинко www.hinko.org