Gully erosion as a natural hazard: the educational role of geotourism

Abstract

Gully erosion is one of the greatest natural hazards in the loess areas of E. (Eastern) Poland. At the same time, permanent gullies are a major tourist attraction and can provide a basis for the development of geotourism. The study objective was to assess the possibilities of using the loess gullies for educational purposes. Detailed studies were conducted within the municipality of Kazimierz Dolny, an area with an extremely high concentration of permanent gullies. The questionnaire survey of students and tourists (nearly 300 surveys were completed) showed that the respondents' knowledge of geomorphology was limited, despite their familiarity with gullies. In most cases, they were unable to accurately identify the determinants of gully erosion, its negative effects and methods for preventing it. An assessment of the tourism and geotourism potential of the municipality made it possible to identify the sites (gullies) that can perform an educational function, with regard to gully erosion. The establishment of the Małopolska Vistula Gap Geopark, whose highlights will include numerous loess gullies, can pave the way for the development of geotourism.

The Potential of Permanent Gullies in Europe as Geomorphosites

“…Located within a landscape park and a planned geopark, the selected gullies are listed in Poland's Central Register of Geosites. These gullies are also characterized by various scientific (fossil gully from Bronze Age, active gullying, geological profiles, outstanding sunken lane) and touristic values (Zgłobicki et al 2015b).…”

“…A survey of visitors to these areas clearly shows that gullies cut in loess are the most recognizable and most highly rated of geomorphological heritage (Zgłobicki and Baran-Zgłobicka 2013). Another survey conducted among students of Maria CurieSkłodowska University in Lublin showed that more than 50% of them recently visited a loess gully (Zgłobicki et al 2015b). Despite a high rating of the gullies' values, their geotourism potential has not been properly used.…”

“…Thomas 2012;Hose 2013;Zgłobicki et al 2015b). A geosite is a geosphere feature of particular significance for understanding the history of the Earth (Reynard 2004).…”

“…Some studies indicate that permanent gullies in the upland regions of Poland are tourist attractions (Zgłobicki and Baran-Zgłobicka 2013). The geotouristic value of loess geoheritage, including gullies (Warowna et al 2016) and the educational possibilities (Zgłobicki et al 2015b), were also assessed. Gullies were also included in regional studies on geotourism (e.g.…”

“…They offer the first insight into the geodiversity of an area, help plan geotouristic routes and act as virtual guides. They should contain information about the scientific value of the site itself, as well as practical tips on getting there and around (Zgłobicki et al 2015b). Such databases are developed in some European countries, for example in Spain, Italy or Poland.…”