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14/08/2013
NI Geological Garden Completed
A new geological garden in Crawfordsburn Country Park, Co Down, has been completed, showcasing the story of Northern Ireland's geological development over the last billion years.
The park consists of 12 large rocks, each from a different geological period, placed along a meandering trail to tell the story.
Environment Minister Mark Durkan said: "For its size, Northern Ireland is amongst the most geologically diverse areas of planet earth. Nearly all the geological time periods are represented here over almost 1bn years of Earth's history. In that time, what is now Northern Ireland has experienced an enormous range of environmental conditions including erupting volcanoes, hot deserts, warm tropical seas and glaciers.
"A walk through this wonderful geological garden at Crawfordsburn is a walk through time and space. Using the expertise of geologists, the rocks themselves provide information on the conditions in which each rock was formed, while the associated planting includes examples of trees and other plants related to those from known fossils. I urge people to come and take a look at this fascinating garden and follow its journey through the distant past."
The garden also includes an artificial limestone 'pavement' to represent the story of Northern Ireland's cave and limestone landscape features.
Another section includes the use of stone in society, past and present, and features the latest addition to Northern Ireland's archaeological record, a constructed Neolithic dolmen or portal tomb.
(IT/JP)
The park consists of 12 large rocks, each from a different geological period, placed along a meandering trail to tell the story.
Environment Minister Mark Durkan said: "For its size, Northern Ireland is amongst the most geologically diverse areas of planet earth. Nearly all the geological time periods are represented here over almost 1bn years of Earth's history. In that time, what is now Northern Ireland has experienced an enormous range of environmental conditions including erupting volcanoes, hot deserts, warm tropical seas and glaciers.
"A walk through this wonderful geological garden at Crawfordsburn is a walk through time and space. Using the expertise of geologists, the rocks themselves provide information on the conditions in which each rock was formed, while the associated planting includes examples of trees and other plants related to those from known fossils. I urge people to come and take a look at this fascinating garden and follow its journey through the distant past."
The garden also includes an artificial limestone 'pavement' to represent the story of Northern Ireland's cave and limestone landscape features.
Another section includes the use of stone in society, past and present, and features the latest addition to Northern Ireland's archaeological record, a constructed Neolithic dolmen or portal tomb.
(IT/JP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
