Submitted by doug.cole on Tue, 10/29/2013 - 09:19
Inventory Reference
GEO048
Formal Gradings
Grading
Grade IIIb
Grading Date
GradingComment

Geological section along the eastern bank low cliff of the Gamka River, 28 km south of Leeu Gamka. This covers the steeply-dipping (45 - 85 degrees) Abrahamskraal Formation and forms the holostratotype. The site corresponds with the base of the formation where mudstone and subordinate sandstone conformably overlie the sandstone-dominated Waterford Formation. A holostratotype is an essential component of a defined stratigraphic unit and this locality should be classified as a local heritage site. Grading by: DOUG COLE

Statement of Significance

The base of the Abrahamskraal Formation holostratotype is well-exposed. Mudstone containing calcareous nodules interbedded with sandstone showing fining-upward sequences and small symmetrical ripple marks overlies the Waterford Formation characterised by sandstone showing coarsening-upward sequences and large symmetrical ripple marks and less common mudstone. The boundary between the two formations represents a change from a subaqueous into a subaerial palaeoenvironment.

Significance criteria
Significance Categories
Understanding Natural or Cultural Heritage
Sphere of Significance
Local
Level
Medium
Significance Categories
Research, Teaching or Benchmark Site
Sphere of Significance
Local
Level
Medium
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