GEOPARKS -- INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR OUTSTANDING GEOLOGIC AREAS

The Global Network of National Geoparks consists of 59 geoheritage areas in 18 countries, mostly in Europe and Asia. A Geopark may consist of a single site, but often includes multiple publically accessible sites linked by one or more geologic themes such as paleontology, glaciation, or volcanism, or people’s uses of the land that are influenced by geology such as mining or winemaking. Geoparks assist local economies, particularly through geotourism, educate the public about geological heritage and the links between geology, ecosystems, and cultural and economic activities, and encourage increased geological knowledge through research. The Geoparks network is assisted by UNESCO, but is not a formal U.N. program. The U.S. is not yet a member. Many geologically significant areas in the U.S. are managed primarily by multiple-use agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service. Despite their geologic significance, such areas are generally not eligible for World Heritage designation because economic activities are allowed, even if they do not materially affect geologic resources. These areas, including some of the world’s most impressive geologic sites, could receive international recognition through the Geoparks program and substantially enhance public appreciation for geology. The National Park Service is working with the Geological Society of America to assess support for U.S. participation in the Geoparks network. Input on draft U.S. Geoparks program guidelines will be solicited from land managers and the geologic community. A multiagency proposal to join the international Geoparks program will be prepared for approval by the U.S. National Commission on UNESCO and the State Department. If approved, it will be submitted to UNESCO for ratification at the next international Geoparks Congress in April 2010. If the U.S. joins the Geoparks network, 2 Geoparks will be nominated and forwarded to UNESCO every other year. Local support from land managers and the public is required for a Geopark nomination; sites will not be pre-selected from Washington. Participation by the geologic community is essential for a U.S. Geoparks program to succeed. Geologists will be needed to help organize local support for Geopark designation, help prepare site nominations, and serve on the U.S. Geoparks committee.