What are Geoparks?
What are Geoparks?
Geoparks stands for:
Education
Science
Culture
Communication
Education and popularization of science play an important part within the broad range of educational activities happening in Geoparks for all groups of populations.
Geo-Science – and research based on geological settings, with back-up from academics - come naturally in Geoparks.
Cultural aspects within a Geopark, significant for regional identity, are living tangible and intangible components, and are an integral part of a Geopark; they are closely related to the landscape people live in.
A sound communication and PR strategy is an essential part of the Global Geoparks Network, and members are not just members of a list; membership means active communication between Geoparks across physical and political boundaries, leading to cooperation projects and true exchange.
Michigan’s Keweenaw seems to have all the elements of a Geopark, with exciting geology and spectacular scenery, which has led to an important history marked by diverse immigration and abundant wealth creation. There are a large number of associated attractions, linked by geology, and a history of cooperative outreach, geoscience, cultural and historic organizations.
Geopark examples
Lochaber Geopark, Scotland
Mining Geoparks
Geologic Mining Park of Sardinia, Italy
Arouca Geopark, Portugal
Copper Coast Geopark, Ireland
Geoparks
What are they?
Creating a Vision for North America
What is geopark tourism?
Geopark Members Worldwide
International Geographical Union
Where are they?
Geoparks in US
The Future of North American Geoparks
(powerpoint)
A Keweenaw Geopark?
According to Wesley Hill, Geological Society of America, Geoparks:
• Have destination identities similar to national heritage areas
• Are defined by geology of the landscape and transcend boundaries of protected areas
• Operate as a partnership of people and land managers working to promote earth heritage through education and sustainable tourism
• Are nationally or globally significant geologic areas