Geology goes into cyberspace

Information about Britain's most important Earth science sites can now be accessed from a database within JNCC's website. The Geological Conservation Review (GCR) database is used to manage basic data for each GCR site, of which there are more than 3,000. The sites were selected for around 100 categories (called GCR 'Blocks') encompassing the range of geological and geomorphological features of Britain. Detailed accounts of the sites listed in the database are being published in the 43 volumes of the Geological Conservation Review Series, although it is anticipated that in the future these accounts will also be available in a digital format.

 

Users of the database can search for information in various ways, for example by name, geographical location, or geological context (GCR Block). Definitions and details of the GCR blocks used in the initial GCR site selection process are also available. The database can be found at www.jncc.gov.uk/earthheritage/gcrdb/background.htm

 

As the publication of the GCR Series nears completion, JNCC is embarking on a review of the GCR site 'register', which may result in proposals for new sites and suggestions for deletions. The database will reflect this review, and will be updated whenever new sites are proposed and accepted, or reviewed and removed.