New Geoheritage App reveals Forest’s Geology

A new app has been launched by Foresters’ Forest to help us explore and learn more about the amazing geological heritage found beneath our feet in the Forest of Dean.

This new app introduces the story of the rocks (the geology) underlying the Forest of Dean and that in turn shape the heritage of the Forest. The story is told through 10 self-guided walks, plus introductory sections about the rocks, ‘deep time’ history and Freemining. As you explore the trails, your location will be tracked on the map using the GPS built into your mobile device. When you near a point of interest, the GPS triggers information explaining the site.

The Geoheritage app can be downloaded for free through the Apple and Android app stores.

Geoheritage App screen – Devils Pulpit Walk

Other apps produced for Foresters’ Forest include Hidden Heritage of the Dean, Coleford’s Hidden Heritage and, coming soon, Cinderford’s Hidden Heritage.

Julie Godfrey, of Foresters’ Forest, says:

“It has been delightful to see the app evolve. It includes lots of fascinating facts, some hidden gems within our Forest, and an abundance of photos and images capturing both the beauty of our landscape, the industrial heritage and what lies beneath. The Forest has a complex geological history, with some of the oldest rocks in Gloucestershire, and these have massively influenced the landscape, history, culture and economy of the local area. The app, once downloaded onto a smart phone or tablet, can be used from anywhere, either whilst out on one of the self-guided walks, or simply from the comfort of your armchair. Take a look! Like me, you may be amazed!”

The Geoheritage app has been created for Foresters’ Forest, with National Lottery Heritage funding, by Mike Brooks of the Gloucestershire Geology Trust, and Brooks Designs. Mike is an enthusiastic amateur geologist with a professional background in graphics and software, producing apps for the Apple and Google stores since 2011.