GeoConference by ZRSVN

“Emerging new Geoparks in Europe – sharing knowledge & good examples”

November 20th to November 23rd 2012, Mežica, Slovenia

Book of abstracts

United Nations Educational, Scientiﬁc and Cultural Organization

Slovenian National Committee of the International Geoscience Programme

EMERGING NEW GEOPARKS IN EUROPE – SHARING KNOWLEAGE AND GOOD PRACTISE

CONTENTS Geoparks: a contribution for a smart, sustainable and inclusive growth of Europe

Professor PhD. Nicolas Zouros

Magma Geopark: The process of becoming a European- and Global Geopark supported by UNESCO What´s in it for you?

PROGRAM

Mežica, 20. – 23. november 2012

Pål Thjømøe

Linking geology between the Geoparks Carnic and Karavanke Alps across the Periadriatic Line

Professor PhD. Hans Peter Schönlaub

Arouca Geopark (Portugal)

18.00:

Registration

18.15:

Official Reception in Guesthouse Krebs (Gostilna Krebs, Podjunska ulica 4, Mežica)

PhD. Artur Abreu Sá

The Emilia Romagna Apennine Geopark Project Sara Gentilini, Mario Panizza

From the first steps to the establishment of the Geopark Karavanke

Wednesday: November 21, 2012 32

MSc. Suzana Fajmut Štrucl, MSc. Mojca Bedjanič, Lenka Rojs, MSc. Gerald Hartmann, PhD. Uroš Herlec, PhD. Walter Poltnig, Primož Vodovnik & Christian Varch

Geopark Idrija

Katja Fedrigo, Martina Stupar

9.00 – 9.15

Registration (Narodni Dom Mežica, Trg 4. Aprila 4, Mežica)

9.20 – 10.40

Intrductory speaches

Bojan Režun, Martina Stupar, Martina Peljhan, Mojca Gorjup Kavčič

»Kras Geopark in the Project KRAS-CARSO«

Tuesday: November 20, 2012

Mr. Dušan Krebel, Major of the municipality Mežica; MSc. Suzana Fajmut Štrucl, Director of Podzemlje Pece d.o.o. Mrs. Marjutka Hafner, General secretary of the Slovenian National Commission for UNESCO; PhD. Darij Krajčič, Director of the Institute of the RS for the Nature Conservation; Doc. PhD. Marko Komac, Director of the Geological Survey of Slovenia; President EuroGeoSurveys, Vice-President IUGS

Mrs. Mirka Trajanova, President of the Slovenian National Committee of the International Geoscience Programme Impressum Emerging New Geoparks in Europe – Sharing Knowleage and Good Practice, Geoconference, Mežica, Slovenija, 20 – 23. November 2012. Organized by Geopark Karavanke, Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, The Mežica lead and zinc mine as tourist mine and museum, Slovenian National Commission for UNESCO, Slovenian National Committee of the International Geoscience Programme, Geological Survey of Slovenia, Municipality of the Mežica, Geopark Idrija Organization committee MSc. Suzana Fajmut Štrucl, MSc. Mojca Bedjanič, Lenka Rojs, MSc. Gerald Hartmann, Mateja Kocjan, Christian Varch, Suzana Plohl, Špela Polak, Mojca Gorjup Kavčič, Phd. Karla Oder, Dušan Krebel, Primož Vodovnik, Martina Peljhan, Martina Stupar, Bojan Režun, Sebastjan Poljanec Scietific committee PhD. Uroš Herlec, PhD. Walter Poltnig Book of abstract Editors: Mag. Mojca Bedjanič, Mag. Suzana Fajmut Štrucl, Lenka Rojs Production: Argos Design: Jana Randl Printed by: Demat Edition: 100 copies Mežica, 2012

Representative of the Tourism and Internationalisation Directorate, Ministry of Economic Development and Technology; Mr. Stefan Visotschnig, Major of the municipality Bleiburg / working group Petzenland Phd. Richard Bäk – Regional government of Carinthia - Division 8, Centre of excellence environmental, water and nature conservation – Subdivision head, Geology and soil protection Representative of the Regional government of Carinthia – Division 3 Competence center regional development and municipalities MSc. Helmut Micheler – Tourist bureau of Lake Klopeinersee – South Carinthia

10.40 – 11.00:

COFFE BREAK

11.00 – 11.20:

PhD. Nickolas Zouros (University of the Aegean - Department of Geography, Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest; Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network Geoparks: A contribution for a smart, sustainable and inclusice growth of Europe

11.20 – 11.50:

Pål Thjømøe, Geopark Magma (Norway): Geopark Magma

11.50 – 12.20:

PhD. Hans Peter Schönlaub,Geopark Karnische Alpen (Austria): Linking geology between the Carnic and Karavanke Alps across the Periadriatic Line

12.20 – 12.50:

PhD. Artur Abreu Sá, “Arouca Geopark (Portugal): From giant trilobites to regional sustainable development and national recognition”

12.50 – 13.00:

BREAK

13.00 – 13.20:

Sara Gentilini, Emilia Romagna Apennine Geopark (Italy): Aspiring Emilia Romagna Apennine Geopark

Site visit in Geopark Karavanke

13.20 – 13.40:

MSc. Suzana Fajmut Štrucl, MSc. Mojca Bedjanič, MSc. Gerald Harmann, Primož Vodovnik, Lenka Rojs & Christian Varch (Slovenia/Austria): From the first steps to the establishment of the Geopark Karavanke

Thursday: November 22, 2012

13.40- 14.00:

Bojan Režun, Martina Stupar, Mojca Kavčič Gorjup & Martina Peljhan (Slovenia): Geopark Idrija

14.00 – 14.20:

Martina Stupar & Katja Fedrigo (Slovenia): Kras geopark in the project KRAS-CARSO

14.20 – 15.30:

LUNCH IN NARODNI DOM MEŽICA

16.00 – 18.00:

Visit of the touristic mine Mežica

Foto: Daniel Zupanc

Foto: M. Jeršek

8:00:

Departure from Narodni dom Mežica

8.30:

Info centre Topla - Visit and presentation

9.30 – 10.45:

Visit the coal-mining village Leše

Foto: Tomo Jerseničnik

11.15 – 12.00: The exhibition “Mati fabrika” in The Carinthian Regional Museum, Museum Ravne na Koroškem 12.00 – 13.20: Site visit in Ravne and lunch in guest house Lečnik 14.00:

Site visit of the Obir caves

16.30:

Health spa Bad Eisenkapel / Železna Kapla

19.00:

Returning to Mežica

Expert guidance during the trip will be covered by PhD Uroš Herlec and PhD Walter Poltnig.

Foto: Martin Vernik

Foto: Tomo Jerseničnik

Foto: Daniel Zupanc

Foto: Barbara Vidmar

Dušan Krebel, Mayor of the Mežica municipality

Dear conference participants, dear guests, Foto: Jani P. Foto: Jani P.

Foto: Jani P. Foto: Jani P.

Foto: Aleksander Rečnik

On 23rd November you are kindly invited to visit the Idrija Geopark to experience: the unique mercury heritage, the second largest mercury mine in the world, the oldest preserved mine entrance and the natural heritage. Follow the walking trail, sense the local atmosphere and taste local dishes.

Excursion programme: 10:00 11:00 12:00 12:45 13:30 15:00 17:00

Presentation of Mercury Ore deposit and Mine Collection (Administrative Building of the Idrija Mercury Mine) Lunch (cold buffet) Idrija Lace School Exhibition “Idrija – the cradle of natural sciences” (Idrija Municipal Museum) Anthony’s Main Road – tourist mine visit Walking the Trail of Idrija’s Natural Scientists, (the “Strug” tectonic window and the summer bathing spot “Lajšt” are optional) Dinner (typical local food at a local restaurant)

Foto: arhiv RŽS Idrija Foto: Jani P.

I am very honoured and pleased that the conference is taking place right here. We honestly admit that it is our great wish and goal to promote our Karavanke geopark as much as possible. As the organizers of this meeting have already put it, we also hope to further strengthen international cooperation between future geo-parks in Slovenia and partners from abroad on both a personal and institutional level. The premise that geo-parks are a solid basis for sustainable regional development was our guiding principle during the establishment of the Karavanke geopark. It includes thirteen local communities, two companies and numerous supporting institutions on both sides of the national border. The major partner of the project is the institution Podzemlje Pece d.o.o., which has been working very hard for the last fifteen years to build on the more than 340-year-long mining tradition of Mežica, and preserve the rich, natural and technical heritage that make the mine a known tourist destination in the region. The diverse tourist offer and visitors statistics are proof enough that the work of the institution has been successful, which undoubtedly forms a good basis for the reinforcing and promoting of the Karavanke geopark as a whole. The Mežica municipality is aware of the role the local community has to play in the further development of the Karavanke geopark, and we will strive for fruitful cooperation, since this is a huge common opportunity for the development of our local community, as well as of the broader region. I wish you successful work during the coming days of the conference, I hope you will feel at home in our region and let me already invite you today to come around again.

See you in the Idrija Geopark on 23rd November

Foto: Jani P.

let me welcome you to the international geo-conference here in Mežica from the 20th to the 23rd November 2012. The goal is to exchange knowledge and experiences in the establishment of new geo-parks.

Foto: Dunja Wedam (STO) Foto: arhiv RŽS Idrija

Idrija Heritage Centre Ul. IX. korpusa 17 SI - 5280 Idrija Slovenija

T: +386 5 37 34 075 F: +386 5 37 34 089 E: info@geopark-idrija.si W: www.geopark-idrija.si

MSc. Suzana Fajmut Štrucl, director of Podzemlje Pece, d.o.o., lead partner of the Geopark project

Geoparks today and role of the National Commissions for Unesco Marjutka Hafner, general secretary of the Slovenian National Commission for UNESCO

Dear guests and partners of the Geopark project! The geological structure of the area between the Peca, Uršlja gora and Obir mountains – also known as the Eastern Karavanke region – is different from the geological structure of other Slovenian regions and also different from the majority of the Alps. Way back in the geological past, rocks formed here that contain rare minerals of special economic and aesthetic value. Their economic value led to mining on the slopes of the Peca, Uršlja gora and Obir mountains several centuries ago. And due to their aesthetic value, Mežica minerals, and other minerals from the region, have made it to numerous collections all over the world, thereby increasing the visibility of this area. It has been a long-known fact in Mežica that the area is exceptional due to its very lively past. However, people became even more aware of it when the mine was closed down. A decision was made to preserve and protect its rich natural, technical and cultural heritage. Moreover, opportunities were recognized for the development of new activities, as well as for further scientific and educational work. At the same time, the ideas of geology experts, led by Dr. Ivo Štrucl, Dr. Vladislav Placar, Dr. Stanko Busar and Branka Hlad, found important recognition. These experts believed that either a geological park should be created here or that geological hiking trails should be established, which could then be linked to trails around other geological wonders in Slovenia. After the tourist mine and museum were set up in Mežica, we started thinking about how to improve our activities and make our visitors stay longer in our region. We believed that the wider Peca area had serious potential for developing tourism, based on its natural wealth as well as its rich technical and cultural heritage. The initial idea was to establish a geopark in the Mežica mining area. At precisely this time, the European Geopark Network was created, defining the concept of a geopark. Based on these criteria, we decided to invite not only five Slovenian municipalities but also Austrian municipalities in the Peca area to join us in this enterprise. We believed that a cross-border geopark would enable us to achieve our goals more effectively, as well as strengthen cross-border cooperation. Today, five years after the idea of the common cross-border Karavanke geopark was born, I am pleased to welcome you all to this conference in Mežica. When we presented the idea to the mayors of municipalities from both sides of the border at the meeting of the working group called Dežele pod Peco (Regions under the Peca mountain), I could not have imagined that it would be embraced and that we would join our forces to implement the idea of a common geopark, cross-border cooperation, partnership and common sustainable development.

The idea for the establishment of the network of the areas where geological heritage may be preserved, studied and communicated – today we call them Geoparks – was originally initiated at the International Geological Congress in China already in 1997. Unesco, however, has been closely connected with this idea from the beginning and also contributed substantionally to its realization. The International Union of the Geological Surveys has been in close partnership with Unesco and consequently Unesco granted patronage and included the Global and European Network into its program as early as 2001, only one year after the first four Geoparks were connected. The Geopark Network was embraced by the Unesco - IGCP program at the international level and it is the National Committees of this programs to which the individual geoparks are mostly attached at the level of Member States. In Slovenia we have followed this example and representatives of the two candidates – the Karavanke/Karawanken Geopark and Geopark Idrija – are members of our National IGCP Committee. Such an arrangement enables the National Unesco Commission to render assistance and support to the project of candidature as well as cooperation of the Geoparks with other networks on national and international level. The already quite strong and important role of the National Commission is likely to be strengthened in the future. The Unesco General Conference discussed already in 2011 the possibility of closer and more formal relationship between Unesco and the Global Geoparks Network. The recent 190 session of the Executive Board also discussed this possibility. The majority of Member States spoke in favor of such possibility, since it could bring additional visibility and prestige to the network, and the network itself could benefit from experience from many networks of Unesco designated areas. National Commissions play an important role in bringing together governmental, public and private institutions and this is where we see our major role regarding the Geoparks. National Commissions are the platform where we can connect different intergovernmental and international programs (hydrology, man and biosphere) and networks (chairs, centers, Unesco schools). Although Geoparks are relatively young members of the wider Unesco family, they are very popular, publicly known and visible. As such, they have a lot to give and represent great potential for modern and innovative approaches in the field of sustainable tourism. The Slovenian National Commission was more than happy to play an active role regarding this network and is ready to contribute actively also in the future.

I hope that today’s presentation of good practices and our get-together will help us build new ties and generate many new ideas, which will strengthen and improve our future work.

Geological natural heritage PhD. Darij Krajčič, Director of Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for nature Conservation Mina Dobravc, Senior nature conservation advisor For ages, men and geology have been tightly connected. Geological phenomena, for example the relief, influences upon the soil type and quality, the vegetation, the water conditions and, consequently, also upon the life of humans, animals and vegetables. Rich soil and gentle slopes gave rise to agricultural landuse while hilly areas with ore deposits lead to establishment of mining settlements. Spa tourism emerged at areas full of thermal and mineral springs. Local geological characteristics influenced also the local building characteristics, e.g. the vault and other ornamental stones, roofs, etc. Precious metals and minerals deposits have attracted many occasional miners who scrambled for easy wealth. Natural resources related to geology have been used and taken an important part in economy, as mentioned above. Besides, natural scientists have been dealing with geological phenomena, processes and objects. The first notes on geological composition of Slovenian land were written down in 17 th century in the Janez Vajkard Valvasor’s work Slava Vojvodine kranjske (orig. Die Ehre dess Hertzogthums Crain). In 18th century, Joanes A. Scopoli wrote on mercury, and ore and minerals in the Idrijsko area, and Jožef Mrak worked out a simple geological map of Idrija and its surroundings, including the Idrija mine cross-cut already in 1765. We need to mention also Balthasar Hacquet who drew the first map of Carniola with mines and mineral deposit sites in 1778. We can thus conclude that the geological research in Slovenia goes more than 300 years back in history while from the archaeological findings and written antic sources we may estimate that stonecutting, mining and iron-ore mining have been existing here for over 2000 years. Evidences can be found in a number of place names, e.g. »roman quarry« of marble in Pohorje, of limestone in Podpeč and Podutik near Ljubljana and at other locations over Slovenia. We can see that »geology« is omnipresent with its many forms of appearance in almost any field of human’s subsistence. During the recent times, the ties among nature and humans have deepened in a sense that nature enables men to rest and relax, and to return to their inner essence. Nowadays people can also enjoy the beauties of nature instead of only (ab)using it. The geological processes, phenomena, features and various shapes (of stones and deposits) have built a unique outdoors exhibition where anyone of us can fully enjoy the diversity of geo-nature. To ensure that also future generations will be able to enjoy these natural beauties, Slovenia has declared the most valuable geological natural heritage as geological valuable natural features (GVNF). With this normative system we prevent the unique geological phenomena from damaging or devastation. Geological valuable natural features are parts of nature which are: unique, rare, typical, well-preserved, complexly linked, or important from the point of science or historical witness bearing, from the point of composition and shape of the Earth’s crust, its inner and surface processes, and from the point of Earth’s history and the evolution of life on Earth. In nature they appear as mineral or fossil deposits which are both very important and rare re-

cords on the formation of our landscape. Mineral deposits are classified as the mineral type of geological valuable features of nature. They can be surface (quarries, piles, sheer rocks – natural outcrops, deposits which showed up occasionally while excavating for building, etc) or underground (ore deposits, mines, Karst caves’ deposits). Fossil deposits, including deposits of coal and peat, are classified as the paleontological type. Natural geological phenomena like joints, thrusts, tectonic windows, mofetils, and gaseous springs are called tectonic type. Deposits and sediments belong to the petrologic type. Geologic (stratographic) profiles which show the evolution of rocks, their temporal distribution and the geological events are considered as the stratigraphic type of the geological valuable features of nature. The thermal and mineral springs, already mentioned above, belong to the hydro-geologic type of natural geologic phenomena. The classification of geologic phenomena into types is a base for their evaluation. Through the evaluation procedures, the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation’s (the Institute) experts determine whether a geological phenomenon reaches the valuable features of nature criteria, as according to the set of evaluation criteria for any geological type of natural geologic phenomena, which was prepared by the working group of the Institute’s geologists for every geological type of natural geologic phenomena. When characteristics of a single natural geologic phenomenon fit the evaluation criteria, the phenomenon is recognized as a candidate (proposed) geological valuable natural feature (GVNF). Yet there is still a long way before the geological phenomenon is actually admitted as a (new) GVNF. The Institute’s proposal has to be confirmed by the minister who is responsible for nature conservation, and the (new) GVNF has to be recorded into the Valuable features of nature registry. This is accomplished by the announcement of the Rules on determination and protection of valuable natural features in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia. The Rules are changed approximately every four years which consequently means that the number of valuable natural features in Slovenia changes every four years, too. Currently, there are 705 GVNF, or slightly less than 5% of all Slovene valuable natural features. The GVNF are unique, rare and typical geological phenomena in Slovenia of which some are better naturally preserved, and others worse; some of them are important also from the point of scientific research or from the point of their evidence giving. They represent our riches which we wish to keep for future generations. We preserve the GVNF by means of different protection measures which are implemented by national or local administration, depending on the valuable features of nature status. The Rules on determination and protection of valuable natural features (Official Gazette of RS, No. 111/04) gives protection and development guidelines which ensure the conservation of characteristics which give rise to the valuable natural features status of a certain geological phenomenon. A valuable natural feature can also be protected by giving it the status of a natural monument, a natural reserve or a strict natural reserve. Thus the guidelines which are prepared to control the treatment of the valuable natural features become regimes which determine the treatment of all activities over the protected area. But the GVNF can be protected also in other ways than those related to guidelines, regimes and other legislative protection measures. An excellent example is given by the concept of the geopark whose fundamental objective is to develop, test and spread the methods

to protect the (natural) geological heritage. Geoparks are typically areas with exceptional (geological) natural assets where local inhabitants interconnect with the intent to protect nature and care for the development of the countryside. Although the GVNF are the most important component, many other types of valuable natural features can be exposed inside a geopark, too, as well as the elements of the area’s cultural heritage. A geopark is a combination of the area natural and cultural heritage protection, tightly connected to the local community development, therefore it is also an economical opportunity. Interconnectedness, mutual respect and harmony of people with nature are of uttermost importance. This brings as back to the idea of connectedness of men and geology in our everyday’s lives. The point is that geoparks are primarily designed for local inhabitants, to give them opportunity to recognize and appreciate the value of their home landscape, to co-produce the geopark success story, and present it to visitors, who are eager to learn and understand the geological and other natural phenomena, and enjoy the geopark’s unique nature and its cultural heritage. Still, one of the fundamental duties of every geopark is the protection and preservation of the geological heritage.

Doc. Phd. Marko Komac, Director Geological Survey of Slovenia, President EuroGeoSurveys, Vice-President IUGS

In Slovenia, a geopark is not a legal nature protection category. Despite this, a geopark, by its function, does also represent a protection category. The European and the World Geoparks Network have quite rigorous rules for the geo-nature protection standards inside geoparks, as well as for the general principles of nature protection, and the sustainable development principles which have to base on local characteristics. In Slovenia, the Institute plays an important role in the geoparks’ establishment processes since we give nature protection guidelines, including the guidelines for the protection of GVNF. We take part also in the dissemination of knowledge and information on geoparks, and we help preparing the education materials for visitors (e.g. information boards’ texts, interpretation centres or points, workshops and classes, etc).

Indeed it might seem late, but better late than ever! In the last decade the geocommunity has efficiently organised itself in the Global Geopark Network and established numerous Geoparks around the world under the auspice of UNESCO and IUGS. Today there are 90 Geoparks from 26 countries from five continents officially registered in the Global Geopark Network and I’m confident that there’s a potential of at least one Geopark in almost every country around the globe. Being from a small country, full of natural beauties that are always admired by tourists, I’m proud to be included in the organisation of the conference “Emerging new Geoparks in Europe – sharing knowledge and good examples” that brings the best practice and know-how from already existing Geoparks to Slovenian and Austrian soil. The purpose of this event if far from trivial – two geoheritage areas have applied for the distinguished title of a Geopark – Idrija and hosting town of this conference, Mežica together with 12 municipalities from both sides of the Slovenian-Austrian border. Both towns were medieval mining centres, Idrija for the mercury and Mežica for the lead and zinc exploitation. During the golden era of mining industry in these two regions the development was enormous for those times and the result was the technological, educational and cultural blossom. Nowadays such legacy is called the technical and cultural heritage and where it is underpinned also by the geological heritage, it has a high potential to become a Geopark. As Geoparks are strongly linked to special geological features, the role of geologists and geoscientists on general is rather important. In the life of a Geopark our involvement is of continuous type, ranging from the preparation and evaluation phase to the outreach activities and the expert support during its operation. The involvement of geologist is for the experts themselves a rewarding task as they get the chance to promote the findings of their research, related to the Geopark, and they need to develop skills to communicate with non-experts and consequentially train themselves in the special kind of knowledge transfer, a simple enough to reach the general public. Hence such involvement brings benefits to the Geopark, to the community, to the society and to the science. Representing the last stakeholder I wish to emphasise that geologists will do our best to scientifically support the activities of the Geopark concept also in the future.

There are three geoparks proposals in Slovenia now: The Idrija Geopark, the Carst Geopark, and the Geopark Karavanke. The Institute takes an active part in establishing all three of them, mainly through projects. Thus we proactively help preserving geological and other valuable features of nature in Slovenia.

Literature: • M. Pleničar, B. Ogorelec, M. Novak, 2009: Geologija Slovenije, geološki Zavod Slovenije, Ljubljana. • Pravilnik o določitvi in varstvu naravnih vrednot, Uradni list RS 111/2004. • Vrednotenje geoloških naravnih pojavov (interno gradivo), Zavod RS za varstvo narave, 2012. • http://www.europeangeoparks.org/

Dear respected guests and colleagues, Almost every second child collects pebbles, rocks, minerals or knows the names of numerous dinosaurs for certain a period in her or his childhood. And the intrigue with geology doesn’t stop with entering the adulthood; the general public has always been fascinated by volcanoes, earthquakes, caves, interesting fossils and breath taking geomorphological features. Consequentially these facts bring me to the position of repeatedly asking myself the same questions such as: why have we, geologists only recently organised ourselves and started to officially promote our science; to explain in a simple yet interesting manner the value of geological heritage and the valuable massages it can bring to the modern society? Why have we waited so long? Was society not ready or we were self sufficient?

In the name of Geological Survey of Slovenia and IUGS I wish both applicants that their process of being accepted into the European Geopark Network and into the Global Geopark Network will be a successful one and that it would only represent the start of a flourishing tourist era in both regions. Good luck in your future endeavours!

IGCP supporting and promoting Geoparks Mirka Trajanova, Geological Survey of Slovenia, Dimičeva ulica 14, 1000 Ljubljana UNESCO forwarded the initiative for the International Geologic Correlation Programme (IGCP) in l969. Thus, the IGCP is a cooperative enterprise of UNESCO and the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS). It is active since 1972 and all this time it has been stimulating comparative studies in the Earth Sciences. After three decades of fruitful work, the “International Geological Correlation Programme” continued, as the “International Geoscience Programme”. Around 400 projects on geological problems of global importance were supported by the IGCP up to date. The aim of the IGCP is to better understand processes on The Earth and to treat, and research it is a unity. Countries all around the world joined the programme carried out through international projects. They were making efforts to study and understand factors influencing our environment. New approach to solving geological problems and searching mineral resources were developed and thanks to improved, and newly introduced research methods, the knowledge about our planet goes ahead with big steps. The only way that makes this possible is through the involvement of researchers of various profiles in the programme. Understanding the dynamic living rhythm of our planet by a wide community should be a base guarantee for reasonable, sustainable development. The IGCP especially promotes collaborative projects, which are of benefit to society, and capacity-building. Special emphasis is laid to the advancement and sharing of knowledge between developed and developing countries. The Scientific Board of the International Geoscience Programme (IGCP) supported a total of 29 ongoing projects and 5 new proposals in 2012. Seven projects will receive financial support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) through UNESCO. The main five topics are: Earth Resources: Sustaining our Society, Global Change: Evidence from the geological record, Geohazards: Mitigating the risks, Hydrogeology: Geoscience of the water cycle and Geodynamic: Control our environment. At this stage, none of the projects concerns directly geoparks but their findings can usefully be incorporated into further planning of geoparks development. The Slovenian earth scientists started to cooperate in the IGCP projects in 1978. They have taken part since then in more than 40 projects and in this way popularize Slovenian geology and contribute to the world’s heritage of geological knowledge. Initial projects treated mostly paleontological and biostratigraphic themes, but were subsequently widened to study of events and environmental geology on our territory, to the relationship between natural geological factors and health problems, biodiversity, climate change, and mineral and groundwater resources and their extraction. Such approach incorporates a wide range of geological and other sciences. Diversity and large amount of research works performed in the frame of the IGCP projects in Slovenia, to which young researchers contribute an important part, make the IGCP projects really interdisciplinary and international.

significantly, in a great part thanks also to the research results of the IGCP granted projects. Understanding how The Earth system works is the first step in defining our relationship to it. It is not all the same how we protect nature, extract enormous quantities of raw materials for our needs, plan our settlements, how much energy we are using for all our activities, and how we understand climate changes. For this reason capacity building in the earth sciences needs to take place at all levels. Fortunately, human care for the environment and preservation of its still “healthy” regions are gaining importance. In this context, geoparks play an important role, including in their programmes not only geoheritage, but natural and cultural heritage as a whole and first of all, they help to spread awareness of every individuals responsibility to the nature. The IGCP adopted the Global Geoparks idea with increasing number of Member States. One of the main reasons was that Geoparks combine conservation, sustainable development and community involvement. As a cover organization, UNESCO started to be active in this area in 1999. Then, Geoparks initiatives were proposed as a UNESCO programme, getting an ad hoc support. They are coordinated through a Global Network of National Geoparks. The Global Geopark brand is a voluntary, quality label. It is not a legislative designation, therefore the heritage sites within a geopark should be protected under local, regional or national legislation. A Global Geopark is a unified area with geological heritage of international significance where that heritage is being used to promote the sustainable development of the local communities. National geological heritage initiatives benefit from their membership in a global network through exchange and cooperation. The members are committed to work together, exchange ideas of best practise and join in common projects. The purpose of all this is to raise the quality standards of all products and practises of a Global Geopark. Up to now, the Global Geopark Network has 89 members in 27 countries, together comprising 90 registered geoparks. There is still no one from Slovenia among them, but the two geoparks, we will visit these days, are well on the way to join the list. The First International Geoparks Conference was held in Beijing, in 2004. Recently, 11. Conference of European Geopark Network was held in the Arouca Geopark in Portugal from September 19th to 21st, 2012. Four new geoparks (from China, Hungary, Indonesia and Spain) were admitted by the Global Geoparks Network Bureau. At this occasion, representatives from Slovenia presented the trans-boundary Karavanke Geopark and the Idrija Geopark. Their admittance was postponed at the moment. The Slovenian IGCP National Committee strongly supports development of geoparks on our territory, though the financial support is symbolic. Establishment and spreading of geoparks areas is one of the best ways to connect human society at all levels and to protect and present our geological heritage to local and international public. Geoparks will make strong links between geological heritage and all other aspects of natural, cultural and intangible heritages of the area. At the end, I wish a lot of success to the Conference and many fruitful conclusions, which will help geoparks Karavanke and Idrija to join the Global Geopark Network.

In the last decade or two, the awareness of human impact to the environment increased

Mr. Stefan Visotschnig, Major of the municipality Bleiburg / working group Petzenland

Cross- border Geopark Karavanke – vision for sustainable development of the borderland Phd. Richard Bäk

Ladies and gentlemen, With great pleasure i welcome you in the name of the workinggroup Geopark Karavanks – Petzenvalley, and ofcourse also in the name of the neigbourhood municipality Bleiburg/ Pliberk, here in Mezica to the first international konference in our Geopark Karavanks. Working group of Geopark Karavanks is an bilateral network of municipalities, and was founded in the year of 2005 (on the ocassion of EU-membership of Slovenia) as former working group of Petzenvalley (Petzen is our common main mountain). In the begining 4 austrian and 5 slovenian municipalities fouded this working group. The main aim is to define common development potentials an to establish tehm in form of common projects. So we tried to establish in our network of municipalities one common priority for our region, to get one common orientation for our crossborder area. We found our common priority in etsblishment of our crossborder Geopark. In The meanwhile the working group is increasing to 13 municipaliteis, 4 more municipalities will become new members til the end of the year 2012. And therfore we also rename the working group from Petzenvalley to Geopark Karavanks. All municipalities fulfill the principals and priorities of Geopark in all caseses. We understand our Geopark as a common crossborder region, which concerns to lokal, national and european possiblilities and problems. Results and aims of our geopark work shall enable an better development of our common living area. We try to make our complicated geology visable not only for tourists, also for local people, in special for our schools and kindergardens. But we also want to have actual diskussions with experts on open questions and also on consequences from our geological situation to our cultural and living area – and out from an actual natural disaster, to minimize the threat of natural disaters, to establish common warningsystems and to coordinate immediate measseures in case of desasters.

The mountain chain forms the natural border between Slovenia and Carinthia, province of Austria, but does not divide the region: The common cultural heritage is evidence of a common history in the past. The mining tradition on both sides led to institutions which are responsible to reminder on the coal, iron and lead mining which supported the process to Geopark foundation. The miners of Hochobir discovered natural cavities with dripstones which document the karst phenomena in the carbonate rocks dominant in the Karavanke. The cavities are filled in the deeper part of mountains with karst water used as drinking water in the region. Because of the relevance of the water resources hydrogeological studies has been done in the last decades and a cross border commission has been founded between Slovenia and Carinthia with the target to protect the treasure for the future. A further result of studies was the knowledge of “secrets written in stones”. Mining history and the secrets imprinted in stones are the potential for touristic use and education in geological processes. With understanding of geological processes the acceptance for measurements to secure the geological and geomorphologic heritage will increase within the inhabitants of borderland. In this way the Geopark Karavanke will be an important institution for future protection of a unique landscape formed by geological processes – tectonic, glacial, karst geomorphological activities and erosion – and of the resources of “blue gold”. Because of the importance of protection the local government of Carinthia assists the Geopark and the subdivision geology, part of the department environment, water and nature protection will engage in the expert council as an adviser for geological affairs.

We understand our Geopark also as instrument for regionalpolicie to develop our crossborder living, cultural and economic area. In our Geopark karavanks we protect, use, feel and respect our geology. Ist a great pleasure for us to welcome you here in our Geopark, let me thank you, everybody of you for your comming. In the name of all municipalities of geopark i want also say thank you to the national comitee of UNESCO Slovenia, to be an strong partner of our iniciative, and for your support and possibility to organize these konference. Thank you to all of you, I hope you will get here great experiences and that we can welcome you once again in our Geopark.

GEOPARKS: A CONTRIBUTION FOR A SMART, SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH OF EUROPE Professor PhD. Nicolas Zouros1 1 University of the Aegean - Department of Geography 81100 Mytilene Greece Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest 1

Corresponding author (nzour@aegean.gr)

Keywords: European Geoparks Network, Earth heritage, sustainable developement

The European Union adopted a multifaceted strategy called “Europe 2020” for sustainable growth and jobs for the next decade, designed to help Europe come out stronger from the world’s worst economic crisis since the 1930s. The objective of Europe 2020 is to develop: • smart growth (education, knowledge and innovation) • sustainable growth (a resource-efficient, greener and more competitive economy) and • inclusive growth (high employment and economic, social and territorial cohesion) This vision of Europe’s social market economy for the 21st century is built on a partnership between the European Commission and the Member States. The European Geoparks Network The European Geoparks Network (EGN) established in 2000 by four territories, with the support of E.U., has been expanded to include, as of September 2012, 52 territories across 18 European countries. EGN aims to protect geodiversity, to promote geological heritage to the general public, as well as to support sustainable economic development of geopark territories, primarily through the development of geo-tourism. Through Geoparks operation important geological sites gain worldwide recognition and benefit through the exchange of knowledge, expertise, experience and staff among Geoparks. Since 2004, through a formal agreement with the UNESCO (former Division of Earth Sciences), the European Geoparks Network acts as the European sector of the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) which has been expanded, as of October 2012, to include 92 territories (52 in European geoparks Network, 38 in Asia and Pasific Geopark Network and 2 in America) across 28 countries, which are Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, China, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, UK and Vietnam. The European Geoparks Network adopted a common logo which is registered in all European countries, contributing over time to creating a common image of quality, linking the enhancement of European Earth heritage with sustainable development. After one decade of successful establishment, the European Geoparks Network (EGN) represents today a growing European network of excellence, including territories with significant geological heritage facing a series of new challenges towards their operation as effective tools for the implementation of the E.U. strategy for a smart, sustainable and inclusive growth leading to economic and social local development.

Geoparks evaluation procedures In order to measure the progress made in each territory and to achieve high quality standards in Geoparks operation and services provided to visitors, the EGN/GGN established an evaluation procedure for all new applicants for membership in the EGN/GGN. EGN/GGN membership is limited to a period of 4-years after which a revalidation procedure leads to the renewal or not of the membership. The revalidation follows similar procedures as the evaluation. Applications after submission need to be checked and reviewed by the Network. IUGS is carrying out a desk top evaluation on value of geological heritage. Evaluation missions are undertaken by two Geopark experts who are sent to the applicant territory to evaluate the application and to discuss the application with the relevant national and local authorities as well as stakeholders and local communities. Furthermore, the evaluators are also requested to make comments on the integrity and future management of the proposed Geopark. These recommendations have been, in many cases, critical to strengthening the success of applications in the long run. EGN/GGN membership review takes the form of a revalidation process involving the submission of a revalidation dossier and progress assessment document. An inspection visit is carried out by two evaluators from two different countries from the revalidating Geopark, nominated by the GGN Bureau and UNESCO. The revalidation process involves an examination of progress in geological heritage protection and promotion within the geopark as well as the development of sustainable economic activity within the territory. However it will also take into account the geopark’s degree of active participation in common activities with the network members. A quantitative assessment methodology is performed to assign a numerical value to the main elements in the operation of a Geopark. As a result of this evaluation/revalidation process Geoparks can present concrete and measurable results in all EU strategy components. Geoparks and sustainable development Geoparks contribute significantly to smart growth by developing, experimenting and enhancing innovative methodologies for preserving the European geological heritage and supporting the development of scientific research in the various disciplines of Earth Sciences through the Geopark’s management plan which is the main tool for the operation of a Geopark. Geoparks are operating as open air classrooms to improove public knowledge and raise public awareness on climate change and natural hazards (earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, landslides, liquefaction phenomena). Geoparks became also excellent environmental education destinations with efficient and well organized educational activities implemented in open air parks, thematic museums and interpretation centres.

Geoparks support sustainable growth through geotourism development based on Earth heritage resources that define the identity of each territory. Geoparks develop a range of tourist infrastructures to serve their visitors. A Natural History Museum or Interpretation Centre lies at the core of their infrastructures becoming a key factor in attracting visitors. Open air parks and interpreted geosites within the Geopark territories are attracting thousands of visitors each year. Another main infrastructure for each geopark is the network of pathways linking the different sites of interest. Equipped with information panels that explain the various geosites, these footpaths link the interpreted geosites, visiting parks, wetlands, sites of natural beauty and ecological value, as well as cultural monuments and other sites of interest throughout the Geopark. Along the main roads leading to the Geopark area, informative panels and road signs direct visitors towards the Geopark and demarcate their borders. Geoparks also establish information centres to inform visitors about the geotouristic and educational activities. Geoparks replay also to the request of an inclusive growth by creating new jobs directly and indirectly. But what is even more important for the employment in the area is the number of other job opportunities which are created in tourist enterprises, small hotels, guest houses, restaurants and other activities connected with the increase of tourist flow in the Geopark area. Several other local artisans, such as makers of handicrafts and ceramic fossil casts are permanent collaborators with the Geopark. Geoparks also collaborate closely with women’s agrotouristic cooperatives and local organic food producers to offer their visitors the opportunity to taste and buy local food products (pasta, organic vegetables, wine, liquors, traditional sweets and marmalades etc). Geoparks promote quality local products, food and drinks bringing local producers and potential customers together. In this way Geopark visitors experience not only the rich natural heritage of the area and sites of high ecological and aesthetic value, but also the culture, tradition, and local production of the region. References European Geoparks Magazine. Issues No 1-9. Published by the European Geoparks Network. Mc Keever P. & Zouros N. 2005. Geoparks: Celebrating earth heritage, sustaining local communities. Episodes vol. 28, No 4, p. 274-278. Mc Keever P., Zouros N., Patzak M. 2009. Global Network of National Geoparks. World Heritage No 52, 54-59. Zouros N. 2004. The European Geoparks Network. Geological heritage protection and local development. Episodes vol 27, No 3, pp 165-171. Zouros N., Mc Keever P. 2008. European Geoparks – Tools for earth heritage protection and sustainable local development, in: European Geoparks (N. Zouros ed.) Published by the European Geoparks Network, ISBN 9789607646910, p.15-30. Zouros N. 2012. Measuring progress in European Geoparks: a contribution for a smart, sustainable and inclusive growth of Europe. 11th European Geoparks Conference. Arouca. Portugal 19-21 September 2012. Abstract Volume.

Magma Geopark: The process of becoming a European- and Global Geopark supported by UNESCO What´s in it for you? Pål Thjømøe 1 1 2

Manager Magma Geopark AS post@magmageopark.com Geology Department, University of Aarhus, 8000 Århus C, Denmark jrw@geo.au.dk

Magma Geopark (MGP) is located one hour caror train-journey southeast of Stavanger. The geopark straddles the boundary between Rogaland and Vest-Agder Counties, but is mainly in Rogaland County. The Rogaland Anorthosite Province and its contact metamorphic envelope form the geological core of MGP, but the geopark borders follow the administrative boundaries of the municipalities Bjerkreim, Eigersund, Flekkefjord, Lund and Sokndal with a total area of 2329 km2. MGP is a joint-stock company specifically established to meet the requirements for a European Geopark set by the Global and European Geoparks Network. This company is mainly owned by the municipalities and counties, but private companies and investors also have shares. The Geopark holds workshops in the fields of education, art, business development, geology and the establishment of centres and exhibitions. There are about 350 geological scientific publications from the area. When an area or region wants to become a European geopark, they must show how the geopark will make a difference to regional development in their area. This is usually a decisive argument when funding authorities - local, regional or national - provide the necessary financial support to establish and operate a geopark. For us in Magma Geopark this has meant that we have been asked to document what the implications will be for our existing businesses, and how many new jobs we will help to create. These are difficult questions!

MGP is located in a country and an area that succeeds in substantially achieving its goals for regional development. Our region, however, has not experienced the same positive development. The population growth rate is too low, and young people that leave to study elsewhere often stay outside the region after completing their education. How can Magma Geopark make a difference? What’s in it for the people living in MGP? Many of our sites are already frequented visited by the local population and tourists. Many of the local summits are the targets of a “Top –Tours” outdoor organisation and are often visited. Our localities are usually where people meet MGP and they are visual representations of the content and philosophy of the geopark. Our trips and localities help get people out of their chairs and into the fresh air. The economic gain from this is difficult to calculate, but it is very important. Sick leave is a major problem in Norway, and there is a growing awareness in the population of the need to keep fit.

Our region needs more people educated in science and mathematics. Through MGP we have set ourselves the goal to inspire more young people to choose these subjects. We also note that hotel capacity in our region needs to be improved. There are plans for two - perhaps three - new hotels and we think that Magma Geopark, with our localities and activities, will help those who are considering building a hotel to reach a positive decision. We think that MGP can make a difference in several areas.

Linking geology between the Geoparks Carnic and Karavanke Alps across the Periadriatic Line Professor PhD. Hans Peter Schönlaub; Geopark Carnic Alps 1

Past Director, Geological Survey of Austria Center for Geosciences, Austrian Academy of Science

The Periadriatic Line divides the Karawanken Alps into a northern part (Northern Karavanke Alps) which belongs to the Eastern Alps and a southern part (Southern Karavanke Alps) as part of the Southern Alps. In the Geopark Karavanke Alps there are from north to south additional structural elements which which closely match those in the Geopark Carnic Alps: Karavanke Geopark

Carnic Alps Geopark

1) Northern Karavanke Foreland 2) Northern Karavanke Alps Mesozoic Mesozoic of Gailtal Alps (“Drauzug”) 3) Eisenkappel Paleozoic (Diabase Unit) ?? 4) Eisenkappel Granite Nötsch Granite 5) Eisenkappel Crystalline Complex Gailtal Crystalline Complex 6) Karavanke Tonalite Gailtal Tonalit 7) Seeberg Paleozoic Carnic Alps Paleozoic 8) Southern Karavanke Mesozoic Carnic Alps Mesozoic Post-Variscan alpine history in eight steps 1. The Triassic Period (251 – 199.6 m. y.) – growing reefs This interval of time was characterized by growing reefs due to increasing production of lime in association with rich and diverse organisms (corals, bivalves, brachiopods, ammonoids, porifera, algae etc.) living on a shallow marine shelf where extended reefs developed particularly in the Middle and Upper Triassic, as well as lagoons and deep water realms. Continuous subsidence over some 50 m.y. resulted in more than 3000 m thick sediment accumulation. Paleogeographically, sedimentation occurred on a passive continental margin with wide shelf area extending across the Apulian Promontory as part of African Plate. 2. The Jurassic Period (199.6 m. – 145.5 m.y.) – a new ocean is forming During this Period the Penninic Ocean newly formed between Africa and Europe. At the same time marine sedimentary basins subsided differently due to a highly mobile crust. Limestone sedimentation was restricted to submarine swells, clayish and marly sediments deposited in deeper parts. The paleogeography was characterized by the breakup of Pangaea and the opening of the Atlantic Ocean and subsequently of the Penninic Ocean some 165 m.y. ago. The sedimentation of the later Limestone Alps took place on the northern part of the Apulian Promontory which was separated from the Helvetic Shelf on the other coast, i.e., thge European Plate by the Penninic Ocean. Simultaneously the Tethys Ocean started shortening.

3. The Lower Cretaceous Period (145.5 – 100 m.y.) – birth of the Alps This time was characterized by the widening of the Penninic Ocean through production of new oceanic crust, upon which the “Bündner Schiefer“ (schistes lustrès) were deposited. The intracontinental subduction within the Austroalpine (Eastalpine) tectonic unit some 135 m.y. ago caused shortening and tectonic subdivision of the Austroalpine into a lower and upper tectonic unit with formation of the Austroalpine nappes – the birth of the Alps! Paleogeo-graphically the breakup of Pangaea continued and the Adriatic Promontory separated from African Plate. As a consequence the Adriatic Microplate started an independent drift. 4. The Upper Cretaceous Period (100 – 65.5 m.y.) – start of the Alpine Orogeny While the Adriatic Microplate approached Europe, the Penninic Ocean started closing. The consumption of the ocean was responsible for the simultaneous formation of an accretionary wedge and the change from the former passive to an active continental margin. In the Penninic Ocean oceanic lithosphere and its sediment cover (= flysch-type Bündner Schiefer/“schistes lustrés“) deformed into Penninic nappes. Around 90 m.y. deeper crustal levels were affected by Eo-alpine high p/t metamorphism which, however, affected less distinctly the upper tectonic units including the areas covered by limestones. The upper nappes formed shallow Austroalpine sedimentary basins which were subdivided by islands with deposition of Gosau sediments. 5. The Paleogene Period (65.5 – 23 m.y.) – end of the Penninic Ocean Approx. 50 m.y. ago the Penninic Ocean was completely closed. Until some 40 m.y. ago the southern margin of European Plate was subducted under the Austroalpine orogenic wedge forming the Helvetic and Subpenninic nappes, respectively. During this process the Variscan granites transformed to orthogneisses and a temperature-controlled “youngalpine“ metamorphism known as “Tauernkristallisation“ occurred. Between 40 and 30 m.y. ago the slab break-off of lithospheric plate resulted in the ascent of hot melts between Austro- and Southalpine units, i.e. along the Periadriatic Line, which crystallized to granites and tonalites in the crust and volcanoes on the surface, respectively. Also, the Adriatic Plate started south-directed thrusting while the crust underneath the central Alps thickened. As a consequence, some 30 m.y. ago isostatic adjustment movements started in the central Alps with slow uplift. Paleogeographically, the Austroalpine changed to a landscape with hills east of Brenner and low mountains to the west. 6. The Paleogene Period (65.5 – 23 m.y.) – Molasse Basin is formed Beginning in the Eocene a foreland basin (“Paratethys“) gradually subsided due to the superimposed load of the overriding Alps on the European Plate. It was gradually filled until some 15 m.y. with debris from the rising Alps and the Bohemian Massif. The basin contains a rich animal and floral heritage. The paleogeographic situation is characterized by the shallow marine sedimentary Molasse Basin of the Paratehys surrounding the rising Alps.

7. The Neogene Period (23 – 2.4 m.y.) – the rise of the Alps to an orogen The general North-South shortening resulted in an indenter of the Southern Alps some 20 m.y ago into the Central Alps. Simultaneously a rapid East-West lithospheric extension and stretching in Pannonian Basin occurred. The extension was accompanied by the development of a system of lateral displacements north and south of the Alpine chain which resulted in a lateral extrusion of the Eastern Alps against the Pannonian Basin. Due to normal slip faulting the central part of Eastern Alps thinned and exhumation of Hohe Tauern started 15-13 m.y. ago. However, internal deformation continued and Alpine fissures formed. Within the Alps several intra-Alpine Molasse Basins formed. The uplift of the Alps occurred approx. since 10 m.y. ago with rates of some 5 mm/y, later slowing down to 0.5 mm/y.

• anticlockwise rotation of the Adriatic Plate continues today with movements of some mm/y triggering seismicity in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. references KRENMAYR, H. G., Red.(2002): Rocky Austria. Eine bunte Erdgeschichte von Österreich. – Geol. B.-A., 1-64. FROITZHEIM, N., PLASIENKA, D. & SCHUSTER, R. (2008): Alpine tectonics of the Alps and Western Carpathians. In: McCANN, T. (ed.), The Geology of Central Europe, vol. 2: Mesozoic and Cenozoic, 11411232. SCHUSTER, R. & STÜWE, K. (2010): Die Geologie der Alpen im Zeitraffer. – Mitt. Naturw. Ver. Steiermark, 140, 5-21. STUEWE, K. & HOMBERGER, R. (2011): Die Geologie der Alpen aus der Luft. – Weishaupt Verlag Gams, pp. 1-288.

8. Present-day surface and subsurface geology

Present day geological N – S section of the Eastern and Southern Alps from Traunsee in Upper Austria to Bohinjsko jezero in Slovenia (after Froitzheim et al. 2008, Schuster & Stüwe, 2010, Stüwe & Homberger, 2011, 2012).

In conclusion, the major steps of Alpine plate tectonic evolution are the following: • The Adriatic Plate was part of the African Plate until the Cretaceous (“Adriatic or Apulian Promontory“) • subsequently the Adriatic Plate broke up and started to drift independently • while the Austroalpine unit was detached from the Adriatic Plate during the Lower Cretaceous, the Southalpine was sheared off in southern direction during the Paleogene • today the Austroalpine and Southalpine units are part of the Alpine orogenic wedge which is overlying the plate boundary of the European and Adriatic Plate in the subsurface

Arouca Geopark (Portugal): from giant trilobites to regional sustainable development and national recognition

Phd. Artur Abreu Sá

Scientific Coordinator Arouca Global Geopark; Department of Geology, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Ap. 1013, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Geosciences Centre of University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, 3000-272 Coimbra, Portugal. asa@utad.pt

The paleontological work carried out by a scientific Iberian team, since 2004 in the Canelas quarry (Arouca, NW Portugal), has highlighted an important geological heritage mainly related with the Middle Ordovician “giant trilobites”. The construction in 2006 of the Geological Interpretation Centre of Canelas (CIGC), supported by funds of the European LEADER+ Programme and the Ardósias Valério & Figueiredo Ltd. Co., was the first step in conserving this heritage and bringing it to a wider audience. This new reality led towards the creation of a European Geopark, an initiative with important local political and public support. The main aim was to highlight the geological importance of Arouca territory and use it as the basis for creation and delivery of a local sustainable development strategy, backed-up by a strong management structure and working with others to generate external resources supported by European funding programmes. These objectives were achieved in April 2009, with the confirmation of this territory as Arouca Global Geopark, under the auspicies of UNESCO. As Geopark, alongside the protection and promotion of the geological heritage, one of the main pillars is the idea of all-embracing participation of local communities in the development of the territory. The ultimate goal is that local communities are able to develop, sustain and live in their territory with a sense of ownership for it and that it is developed in ways which assert its regional identity. In this sense, the giant trilobites assumed a role as an engine of the local territorial development strategy. As example, in 2006 coinciding with the inauguration of the CIGC, local people began

to sell cinnamon butter cookies in the shape of trilobites. Later, in 2008, the Municipality of Arouca inaugurated a “Monument to the Trilobites”, placed in a roundabout on the access road to Canelas. Today this monument is emblematic of the territory encouraged the people of Arouca Geopark to assume a sense of ownership towards the giant trilobites and thereby believe in their importance and the need for their protection. Since then there were many events and activities in the territory, which had the trilobites as theme. These include exhibitions of painting and sculpture, school activities, popular initiatives, scientific and tourist activities, development of local handicraft products, the creation of a “Trilobite restaurant” or the use of trilobites in the Carnival parade of schools, among others. The image of the trilobite has been used as a signifier for, and visual identity of, the territory at tourism fairs, like BTL (Lisbon), FITUR (Madrid) or ITB (Berlin). These images and the products behind them have proved attractive to tour operators. In successfully managing a Global Geopark, and in delivering a development strategy that actively includes the local communities, the Arouca Geopark Association has become a good example of this new form of sustainable development based on geological heritage of international significance, actively supported by UNESCO. Through highlighting the importance of “giant trilobites” and making case for its conservation, it was possible to improve the awareness of local and national politicians and generate their support for the creation of the Arouca Global Geopark. So, after four years of intense work, with tangibl outcomes resulting for many initiatives, the nickname given to the Arouca Geopark by Richard Fortey, the world-renowned expert on trilobites – the “Geopark of the giant trilobites” – is seen to convey the essence of the place. Today the municipality of Arouca is nationally known and referred to as “the land of trilobites”, which has grown in importance as a positive signifier for the area and which even overrides well-known elements of Arouca’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

The Emilia Romagna Apennine Geopark Project Sara Gentilini, Mario Panizza Gal Appennino Bolognese, Dott.ssa Sara Gentilini, Via Siena 240, Vergato (Bo), sara.gentilini5@gmail.com Modena and Reggio Emilia University,Earth Science Department,Largo Santa Eufemia 19, Modena. mario. panizza@unimore.it Keywords: European Geoparks Network, Geoheritage, Geotourism, Geodiversity.

The Emilia Romagna Apennine Geopark Project promoted by the Gal Appennino Bolognese. Gal Appennino Bolognese is a mix public-private Company in charge of the Leader plus European fund management, by the Emilia Romagna Region, together with other 4 Gal. The Leader plus programme is a Fund in the agricultural field to promote undeveloped areas with several kinds of actions through its main instrument: the Local Action Plan an investment plan for 15 million Euros (2007-2013). Since last Leader programme, the Gal Appennino Bolognese has been invested resources to valorise the geological heritage through several local actions, in collaboration with other Local Institutions and private companies. Several initiatives have been carried out: the implementation of the geological education paths in Sasso Marconi, the setting of the “Geoagritur”: geotourism database, etc. Since 2009 a new idea approached to Gal Appennino Bolognese: create a cultural system underlining the importance of the geological heritage of the Apennines taking in consideration the natural, cultural and gastronomic elements. The features organized together in order to follow specific criteria can create a local approach suitable to be recognized from UNESCO as a Member of the European Geoparks. From 2010 the efforts in that sense have been increasing through several actions at local, National, European and International levels. Gal Appennino Bolognese attended to European and International Meetings in order to improve its competences in Geoparks, exchange good practices and share experiences. During this year the project had obtained new approval by the Board and several public and private institutions and private person have been involved. A dossier was prepared to present the Bologna Apennines as a candidate for enrolment in the list of European Geoparks. The area selected is a portion of the Emilia territory,

to which the concept of geodiversity has been previously applied (Panizza and Piacente, 2008). Geodiversity (Panizza, 2009) is defined as: “the critical and specific assessment of the geological features of a territory, by comparing them in a way that is both extrinsic (with other territories) and intrinsic (with the territory itself). It takes into account the level of their scientific quality, the scale of investigation and the purpose of the research”. In the case of extrinsic geodiversity, the area selected can be considered as an exemplary case in the Apennines owing to its typical geological features: it is in fact an educational example for illustrating tectonic evolution, stratigraphic sequences and lithological peculiarities in this chain compared with other mountains in the world. On the other hand, intrinsic geodiversity concerns first of all the complexity and variety of geomorphological features: LGM glacialism, karst landforms in the gypsum formation, the spectacularity of badlands and high frequency of landslides, which are also a sort of outdoor laboratory for investigations on their hazard. Other characteristics of intrinsic geodiversity are related to mineralogy (e.g., baritine, which Goethe defined as “phosphoric stone”), or petrography, such as the ophiolites (known also as the “Devil’s stones”) or palaeontology, including some specific types of fossils. Finally, it can be observed that, considered from the standpoint of geodiversity, the territory of the Bologna Apennines shows a multifaceted and complex image, depending on the various points of view of scientific observation. In order to carry out a thorough territorial analysis, it is therefore of paramount importance to first choose the goals of our investigations and, consequently, the most appropriate conceptual and methodological path also for applied purposes. REFERENCES Panizza M. (2009) - The Geomorphodiversity of the Dolomites (Italy): A Key of Geoheritage Assessment. Geoheritage, 1: 33-42. Panizza M. & Piacente S. (2008) - La geodiversità e una sua applicazione nel territorio emiliano. Il Geologo, 29, 35-37. -http://www.europeangeoparks.org

FROM THE FIRST STEPS TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE GEOPARK KARAVANKE

Due to the lively fault and thrust tectonics that pushed the Savinjske Alps and Karavanke upwards, and due to the glacial and karst geomorphic processes and erosion, a unique and interesting relief has developed in the area between the Peca and Košuta. The surface of the Karavanke geopark is mostly hilly and mountainous terrain, interlaced with river valleys along the Drava, Meža, Mislinja and Bela rivers and the Podjunska valley in the northern part of the Karavanke geopark.

MSc. Suzana Fajmut Štrucl *, MSc. Mojca Bedjanič , Lenka Rojs , MSc. Gerald Hartmann3, PhD. Uroš Herlec4, PhD. Walter Poltnig5, Primož Vodovnik6 & Christian Varch7 1

Podzemlje Pece, d.o.o., The Mežica lead and zinc mine as tourist mine and museum, Glančnik 8, Mežica, Slovenia, 2 Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Regional Unit Maribor, Pobreška cesta 20, Maribor, Slovenia, 3 LAG (regional cooperation) – Regionalkooperation Unterkӓrnten, Klagenfurterstrasse 1, 9100 Völkermarkt, Austria 4 Department of Geology, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 12, Ljubljana, Slovenia, 5 Joanneum Research Resources - Institute for Water, Energy and Sustainability, Dep. Water Resources Management, Elisabethstrasse 16/II, Graz, Austria, 6 RRA Koroška, Regional Development Agency for Koroška, Meža 10, Dravograd, Slovenia 7 Obir-Tropfsteinhöhlen, Hauptplatz 7, Bad Eisenkappel / Železna Kapla, Austria *S. Fajmut Štrucl (suzana.fajmut@cpm-gm.si) Keywords: Karavanke/Karawanken Geopark, cross-border geopark, Slovenia, Austria

The Karavanke geopark is located in the Eastern Karavanke area between two Alpine peaks that rise above 2,000 metres: the Peca and the Košuta mountains. The basis of the geopark is its location in the geologically varied area between the Alps and the Dinarides. It includes a part of the south-eastern Alps (parts of the Karavanke mountains, KamniškoSavinjske Alps, Strojna, Kozjak and Pohorje as well as Komelj). Its administrative border follows the borders of thirteen municipalities, five on the Slovenian side (Črna na Koroškem, Mežica, Prevalje, Ravne na Koroškem, Dravograd) and eight on the Austrian side (Zell/Sele, Gallizien/Galicija, Bad Eisenkappel/Železna Kapla, Sittersdorf/Žitara vas, Globasnitz/Globasnica, Bleiburg/Pliberk, Feistritz ob Bleiburk/Bistrica pri Pliberku, and Neuhaus/Suha). The geopark covers 977 km2 and has a population of 50,378 inhabitants.

Libeliče

Muta

Strojna

Vuzenica

Feistritz ob Bleiburg/ Bistrica nad Pliberkom Peca/Petzen 2125

Hochobir/Obir 2139

Koschuta/Košuta 2133

Seebergsattel/ Jezerski vrh 1216

Olševa 1930

Uršlja gora 1699

Smrekovec 1577

The Karavanke mountains were formed during the second phase of the Alpine orogeny, which began in the Eocene period and continues today. Pressure between the European and Adriatic (a part of the African plate) tectonic plates and the counterclockwise rotation of the latter caused the lateral eastward displacement of up to 250 kilometres of the northern limb along the Periadriatic Lineament fault zone, creating Hiking in the Kararavanke geopark (Photo: Langs) a divergent multi-nappe »flower structure« perpendicular to the Periadriatic ligament. The northern part of the root zone consists of Permian–Triassic intrusive breccias that are composed of gabbro and sienite. The southern zone consists of Oligocene tonalite intrusions. The oldest metamorphic rock in the core zone between the magmatic rocks has been altered due to contact metamorphic processes. Intensive simultaneous volcanism has left a sequence of pyroclastic rocks on the surface. In the northern part of the Karavanke geopark, which belongs to the European plate, a whole range of ultra high-grade to lowest-grade metamorphic rocks is exposed. They were created in a regional metamorphosis during the collision of continental plates. The southern and northern wedging nappes are composed of shallow-water – mostly platform – carbonate sediments from the Ordovician and Eocene periods that contain numerous fossils from the vast Paleo- and neo-Tethys oceans. When the Karavanke were pushed upwards, clastic sediments were formed at their northern foothills. The Peca area is world-famous for its epigenetic lead-zinc mineral deposits in carbonate rocks and for its extraordinary early diagenetic zinc-lead stratiform mineral deposit in Topla. Above that, glacial, fluvial and karst geomorphic processes have created the exceptionally picturesque topography. A summary of Poltnig, W., Herlec, U. et al, 2010: Full geological description. ZRSVN. Ljubljana, p. 207

In the area of the Karavanke geopark, 48 geosites have already been registered, and 14 of them are categorized as geopark localities. The most important geosites of the Karavanke geopark include: one of the three richest deposits of Carnian crinoids in Europe;

Dobrova pri Dravogradu and Mežica as type localities of the minerals dravite and wulfenite respectively; the Mežica deposit, famous after its long mining tradition, which is also the richest European deposit of the world-famous mineral wulfenite; The mineral dravite, which was first The world-renowned mineral wulfenthe lead-zinc ore discovered in Dobrova pri Dravograite (orange) on calcite (Photo: M. deposit in Topla, du (Photo: RRA Koroška archives). Jeršek). unique in its creation; the Obir caves as the most beautiful karst caves in Austria; visible evidence of the boundary between the Adriatic and the Eurasian plate – the so-called Periadriatic ligament; evidence of volcanic activity in the Smrekovec mountains and in the Obir gorge; and numerous mineral water springs, etc. Due to the varied geological basis, exceptional habitats have developed in the Karavanke geopark area, which are home to rare and even endemic plant and animal species.

include different workshops for school children, public debates, openings and presentations of exhibitions, open-door days, guided visits, trips and excursions, workshops etc. With the help of these events, we were able to present the rich geological, natural and cultural heritage of the Karavanke geopark. Educational contents are of central importance for us. Under the slogan “It’s fun, it’s educational and no chore,” we organize geo-workshops for children in kinA canoe ride through a mine (Photo: J. Suhadonik, Delo) dergartens and schools as well as training courses for their teachers and guides in the Karavanke geopark. In connection with this, we have created different educational programmes for different target groups (Geo-adventures; the Mysterious world of rocks, minerals and fossils; geo-project days; an international exchange; guided visits to geo-localities and other natural and cultural heritage sites of the Karavanke geopark, etc.). We also published the first Karavanke geopark newsletter and presented the geopark at numerous fairs and EGN conferences.

The Karavanke geopark was established in 2012. It is managed by a cross-border partnership that includes two Geopark Centres (Podzemlje Pece d.o.o., turistični rudnik in muzej in Obirske jame), local communities and supporting institutions in the field of natural and cultural heritage protection and regional development. The Karavanke geopark is currently looking into a more appropriate and ideally suitable legal and formal form of operations, which would enable an even more successful and continuous activity of the geopark.

In the coming months, we plan to set up a range of new information and interpretation boards, and create educational trails in the Karavanke geopark area as well as prepare even more tourist packages, signpost the area and strengthen cooperation with the local population. This will contribute to the success of the Karavanke geopark, to the protection and promotion of geological and other heritage, as well as to its visibility, and it will, of course, increase the number of visitors to the area.

Cave “decor” in the Obir cave (Photo: D. Zupanc).

It’s fun, it’s educational and no chore - workshops for children. (Photo: M. Antonić)

Numerous activities are organized within the framework of the Karavanke geopark that enrich the offer of the two geopark information centres. One of them is the annual Week of the Karavanke geopark, which was organized for the second time this year, and is mainly targeted at the local population. There have been other events for various target groups and all activities have been offered in both Slovenian and German. These events

Geopark Idrija Bojan Režun1, Martina Stupar3, Martina Peljhan1, Mojca Gorjup Kavčič2 1

Idrija Mercury Mine, Ltd. – in liquidation, Bazoviška 2, 5280 Idrija, Slovenia, bojan.rzs.idrija@s5.net, martina.rzs.idrija@s5.net 2 Municipality of Idrija, Mestni trg 1, Idrija, Slovenia mojca.gorjup-kavcic@geopark-idrija.si 3 Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Regional Unit Nova Gorica, Delpinova 16, 5000 Nova Gorica, Slovenia martina.stupar@zrsvn.si

The mercury mineralization containing cinnabar and native mercury in Idrija is known worldwide. After 500 years of mining, a decision to close the mine was made in 1987 due to economic and environmental causes. Despite the decision on its shutdown, some parts of the mine have remained accessible, as it is necessary to carry out constant supervision in mine shafts and galleries in order to ensure the safety of the town of Idrija. The long history of mining has had a significant impact on economic development, social life, science, technology and culture in the Idrija region. The extremely rich geological histories, cultural and natural heritage of the Idrija region have encouraged geologists, nature conservation experts, and the municipal authorities to establish the Idrija Geopark. The Idrija Geopark Initiative was presented for the first time in 2007 at the European Geopark Network Conference in Scotland, which became a cornerstone for understanding the »geopark idea«. A decision to establish the Idrija Geopark was finally made, and only a few months later a cooperation team was formed by Idrija’s mayor. One of the key reasons why this idea has developed was also our cooperation with partners from the Portuguese Arouca Geopark and the Norwegian Magma Geopark. Exchanging ideas and practices at the very beginning of a geopark’s establishment is absolutely imperative. Some good practices introduced at the very beginning of our effort have been realised.

One of our challenges will be how to incorporate their contributions into the Geopark on the one side, and how to realise their expectations regarding the Geopark on the other. At the moment, the Partners Group unites more than 30 partners from the public and private sectors, such as schools, sports and cultural associations, tourist farms, museums, local authorities, area managers, etc.; and the enormous interest shown has not begun to decrease. In future months, we have planned many activities for children and numerous promotional activities, and are resuming the interpretation of natural heritage and the formation of thematic trails, all with the participation of the geopark’s partners. This truly highlights the power of the support given to the Geopark, and what partners can achieve if they are given the right support. Our work is ongoing within the entire range of the team’s activities relating to the promotion and recognition of the Geopark.

Since 2007, the local authorities have devoted many efforts into the establishment of the geopark. In 2008 and 2009, concrete steps were taken in connection with inventory, thematic trails, evaluation of geoheritage, educational programs, research study, etc. In July 2010, the Idrija local community approved the local decree establishing the local institution “Idrija Heritage Centre” and its internal unit, the Idrija Geopark. On the basis of an inventory of geological heritage and the implementation of systematic protection of geological heritage, the outstanding richness, unique mineralisation, and the complex geological structure of the surrounding area were recognised as an internationally important geo-site. This process is, however, extremely complex and requires the preparation of a wide range of documents, analyses and information. After the geopark’s official establishment and its intensive promotion among the local inhabitants, there has been a considerable increase in the number of partnerships and expressed ideas. From the very beginning, numerous activities have been carried out with local partners. For example, projects with the Idrija Mercury Mine, exhibitions with the Idrija Municipal Museum and the Idrija Lace School, cooperation between primary and secondary schools, universities, the creation of thematic trails, etc. Our partners are well aware of the significance of the Idrija Geopark, and they have their own original ideas.

»Kras Geopark in the Project KRAS-CARSO« Katja Fedrigo1, Martina Stupar2 1

Katja Fedrigo, team manager of the project KRAS-CARSO, E-mail: katja.fedrigo@sezana.si Municipality of Sežana,Partizanska cesta 4,6210 Sežana, Slovenia 2 Martina Stupar, B .Sc. Geology , E-mail: martina.stupar@zrsvn.si, Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Regional Unit of Nova Gorica, Delpinova 16, 5000 Nova Gorica, Slovenia

The amount and variety of natural and cultural sites which are recognized by the existing systems and programs may lend themselves well to efforts which seek formal recognition as a Geopark. The scientific part of the study for Slovenian part of Karst has already been done and will be representing in the presentation.

Key words: geological heritage, karst conservation, economic development

The strategic project KRAS-CARSO (Co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund funding and national funds in the context of cross-border co-operation Slovenia–Italy 2007-2013), with the full name of Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Territorial Cohesion, is being carried out within the territory of Karst and promotes sustainable territorial integration of a homogenous area of Karst as one of the most important cross-border zones between Slovenia and Italy. The aim of the project is to carry out activities which will provide sustainable management of natural resources and territorial cohesion with joint strategies at a transnational level. One of those activities is also activity “Assessment of the potential implementation of geopark in Karst”. The objective of this activity is to find out if the establishment of a geopark in Karst would represent a solution to keeping the natural characteristics of the area while promoting socio-economic development. For this purpose the activity envisages the elaboration of the Feasibility Study on Establishing a Kras Geopark. That will be researched in the study with an analysis of the possibilities and ways of its establishment. Study is divided into three parts: professional part, participatory part (verification of the degree of acceptance or inclination – political inclination, inclination of the local population and the other local stakeholders to geopark in Karst) and economy part. A geopark is defined by UNESCO in its International Network of Geoparks program as “a territory encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance, not only for geological reasons but also by virtue of its archaeological, ecological or cultural value”. Many of the resources that exist within the Kras region suggest the notion of a »geopark« as a method to collectively implement the components of nature conservation. The Kras region has long been known as a unique natural feature which contains rare geological, geomorphological features, cultural heritage and landscapes, as well as represents a “hot point area” for biodiversity. Due to its overall value on the one hand, and risks and threats to the karst systems on the other, an effective protection of the karst areas as well as economic development is required. It is crucial to understand the concept of geoparks. These natural and cultural features need to be placed in context within defined Geopark Kras. The karst and the region Karst in Slovenia also achieved its reputation through the fact, that the word kras-karst has had an international meaning for a region possessing the same features. The most excellent protected karst area in Slovenia is The Regional Park Škocjanske Jame also put on the UNESCO’s world heritage list in 1986. The big frequency and diversity of karst features and a huge amount of scientific researches done on the Slovenian karst phenomena, outlines its importance for the karst science.

Geological map of Kras (B. Jurkovšek,Gelogical Survey of Slovenia)

Projekt KRAS-CARSO sofinanciran v okviru Programa čezmejnega sodelovanja Slovenija-Italija 2007-2013 iz sredstev Evropskega sklada za regionalni razvoj in nacionalnih sredstev. Progetto CARSO-KRAS finanziato nell’ambito del Programma per la Cooperazione Transfrontaliera Italia-Slovenia 20072013, dal Fondo europeo di sviluppo regionale e dai fondi nazionali. Project KRAS-CARSO / Sustainable management of natural resources and regional cohesion cofinanced by the Crossborder Cooperation Programme Italy-Slovenia 2007-2013, by the European Regional Development Fund and national funds.