Royal Alberta Museum - Criteria used to Measure Geological Significance

Criteria used to Measure Geological Significance Text Image

Because this evaluation is based on numerical scoring only, a feature may rank as less significant than what would commonly be expected by the geological community. This happens because a feature may not rate high on all criteria and so result in a lower average score. In these cases, the judgement of a qualified earth scientist should take precedence over the simple numerical score arrived at in the evaluation.

Criterion #1 - Rarity

Geologic features are evaluated on the basis of their abundance relative to similar features within the province of Alberta. The evaluator should be aware that the visibility of a feature and/or the amount of effort that has been expended studying it can bias the perception of abundance.

• unique (only 1 in province) (scores 20)

• rare (less than 5) (scores 10)

• moderate occurrence (5-10) (scores 5)

• common occurrence (over 10) (scores 1)

Although these values are arbitrary, clearly defined numbers will result in a more objective and therefore comparable response between evaluators.

Criterion #2 - Quality

A geologic feature is evaluated according to how well it measures up to the "ideal" or "textbook" example of its type, and how easily its characteristics are discerned. A high quality feature need not necessarily be complete. However, what is present must be one of the "best" of its kind in Alberta.

• low (only a specialist could recognize it, feature not chosen for illustrating example) (scores 1)

• moderate (scores 5)

• high (textbook quality, all features easily discerned) (scores 10)

Criterion #3 - Degree of Completeness

A feature is evaluated according to the extent to which the characteristic attributes are present. A feature is considered to be geologically significant if it is complete and has value in terms of scientific research and on-site study. An incomplete geological feature may be the result of natural or human activities.

• low (less than 20% of expected characteristics are present, although what is present may be of high quality (scores 1)

• moderate (scores 5)

• high (greater than 80% of expected characteristics are present) (scores 10)

• not applicable (N/A)

Criterion #4 - Scientific/Professional Significance

Known geological sites or features that are formally recognized are of greater value than similar features that have not yet been studied. Recognition increases the potential to add to our understanding and knowledge and provides opportunities for scientific research, education, and on-site study.

• no recognition (scores 1)

• moderate recognition (1-2 references) (scores 5)

• high recognition (scores 10)