Exciting news this week for the Bonavista Peninsula.
The Discovery area has been designated an UNESCO Global Geopark.
A portion of the Bonavista Peninsula, including Bonavista and Port Union, have been recognized for their unique geological and cultural features.
A research team comprised of Newfoundland and British researchers found a perfectly preserved impression of a creature—Haootia Quadriformis—in the area in 2008.
It’s believed to be the earliest known preserved example of muscle tissue. That fossil is now on display at The Rooms.
Chair of the Geopark Board of Directors and Bonavista Mayor, John Norman says the Geopark designation includes ten geosites.
They contain infrastructure including trails and benches, while there are dozens of other sites that will be announced over the coming years. Some other sites will never be opened to the public and will remain research sites because of their sensitivity.
The Fundy area of Nova Scotia also received UNESCO Geopark status.
2/2 From an idea over a decade ago to the international designation today – through world class geology, arts & culture, history and heritage, our region’s commitment to place brought us here today. Thank you so much for your continued support.
Image: Haootia quadriformis fossil pic.twitter.com/jaBzCdB75G
— Discovery Global Geopark (@DiscoveryGEONL) July 10, 2020
