Dunaskin Glen
Also within
Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Palaeozoic Palaeobotany | Favourable | — | 2015-03-17 |
| F2 | Upper Carboniferous [Namurian (part) - Westphalian] | Favourable | — | 2009-02-20 |
Geology & landscape
Geological Period: Carboniferous · Rock Type: Ironstone, Millstone Grit
Landscape processes: Volcanic / Igneous
Description
DUNASKIN GLEN Dunaskin Glen, lying just over 3km to the north west of Dalmellington, is nationally important for its sequence of Upper Carboniferous sediments and Palaeozoic Palaeobotanical interest. The Upper Carboniferous sediments include the best exposure of the Millstone Grit and Coal Measure series in western Scotland. Teshenite sills and a volcanic plug have partly intruded these sediments. The sediments provide outstanding geological interest as a guide to the unusual development of Lower Coal Measures in this coalfield. The Palaeozoic Palaeobotany interest of the site is linked with the Dalmellington Blackband Ironstone layer, which is well exposed at Dunaskin. It is the junction between ‘C’ and ‘D’ palaeobotanical floral assemblages (identified by Dix) associated with this layer that adds to the geological interest of the site.