The purpose of this report is to develop a method to evaluate and compare geological sites. It is hoped that the proposed evaluation procedures will lead to better recognition and understanding of the significance to Alberta's earth science sites.

In Alberta, the main criteria for recognizing and designating significant natural areas have been biological rather than geological. Little consideration has been given to preserving geological features. This is unfortunate because Alberta is famous for its geological beauty and diversity. It also figures significantly in the petroleum-based economy and contributes to an extremely successful tourism industry. The province has thousands of excellent outcrops illustrating an extensive geologic record and many varied rock structures and land forms. Many of these outcrops demonstrate geological processes and are often highly fossiliferous. Most geological sites are either unrecognized and poorly understood, or are being damaged or destroyed by human and natural processes. More effort is needed to encourage the preservation of Alberta's geologic heritage and to enhance the educational value of sites for the visiting public.

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