Advances in Geoconservation in Cuba: Assessment of the Guaniguanico Range and Guanahacabibes Plain (Pinar del Río)

Abstract

The application of geoconservation concepts in Cuba is very recent, despite the wide body of knowledge accumulated through the study of Cuban geology. Recently, the establishment and consolidation of a National System of Protected Areas that stresses interaction with scientific institutions has greatly helped initiate geoconservation in Cuba. In this study, we review the geoconservation criteria used in the management of protected areas, their precedents and administrative framework. We sed the methodology proposed by Bruschi (2007) for the characterisation, assessment and management of geodiversity resources, and modified its criteria for use in selecting geosites. We have applied the methodology to assess the Guaniguanico Range and the Guanahacabibes Plain where 162 geositeswere defined. Of the 162 geosites assessed, 107 were at Viñales National Park, so it could be a potential area to become the first Caribbean Geopark.