Heritage Geology of Pennsylvania

Heritage geologic features are recognized special places of intertwined geology and landscape. Heritage geologic features may include unique or exemplary outcrops, scenic views, or other geologically significant features that together represent the geologic diversity of the Commonwealth. Such features may be classified into different types that may be enjoyed, studied, and appreciated by all. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Geological Survey, is striving to promote the awareness, appreciation, and conservation of such outstanding geologic features by documenting their presence.

The Survey participates in the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program (PNHP), formerly known as Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory. For more information about Pennsylvania’s efforts to preserve its natural heritage, visit the PNHP web site.

PNHP is a partnership between:

• the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy,
• the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and
• The Nature Conservancy;

and in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

For an example of how the program works with geologic features, see our web page on the relocation of the Swatara Gap fossil locality.

For information regarding geologic features and PNHP, contact Jim Shaulis of the Pennsylvania Geological Survey at 717–702–2037.