Panels promote Skye and Lochalsh Geology
A trail of interpretive panels throughout Skye and Lochalsh was unveiled today (Monday 18th September) by Highland Councillor Bill Fulton. Nine panels along the trail feature illustrated information about the importance of the geology of the area for people and wildlife.
Included in the trail are sites directly owned by The Highland Council and sites where The Highland Council has had management input over the years. The nine panels are located at: Kilt Rock, Lealt Gorge, Old Man of Storr, Scorrybreac, Coral Beach, Dun Beag near Struan, Calum Robertson Memorial, Kylerhea narrows, and the Plock of Kyle.
Information depicted on the panels describes the collision of ancient continents, explores the history of Skye Marble, highlights fascinating facts about where to find dinosaur footprints and a coral beach on Skye, and tells the story of diatomite from Lealt, once used in the manufacture of dynamite and exported to South Africa among other places.
Councillor Fulton, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Skye and Lochalsh Area Planning, Development , Europe and Tourism Committee said: “The geology of Skye and Lochalsh is one of the things that make this area unique with its magnificent landscapes created out of the bare rocks. This interpretation trail will not only be a great facility for the many tourists to our area but I am sure it will inform the locals too of our geological history.”
John Phillips, Skye-Lochalsh, Ross and Cromarty Senior Ranger, who coordinated the panels project said: “The opening of the “Secrets in the Landscape” trail is a great way to celebrate Scottish Geology Month and it will provide a lasting resource for the area. As a complement to our programme of guided walks and events that the Highland Council Rangers organise each year, the panels and leaflet will be available all year round.”
The series of interpretive panels and an accompanying leaflet were produced by The Highland Council’s Planning and Development Service with funding from INTERREG III B (a European Community fund, one of whose aims is promoting the environment and good management of cultural heritage and natural resources, particularly water) with additional funding from Scottish natural Heritage, HIE Skye and Wester Ross and The Highland Council.
Copies of the leaflet “Secrets in the Landscape – Dìomhaireachd na Cumadh-tìre” that accompany the trail are available in local Highland Council Service Points and Libraries or can be obtained by telephoning: 01471 822905.
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