Submitted by doug.cole on Mon, 10/28/2013 - 10:19
Inventory Reference
GEO043
Formal Gradings
Grading
Grade IIIb
Grading Date
GradingComment

Geosite covering a 6 metre-thick sandstone capping the low southern cliff of the Agterste River. This sandstone displays a variety of sedimentary structures characterising turbidite deposition. The geosite is easily accessible and should be classified as a local heritage site. Grading by: DOUG COLE

Statement of Significance

The sandstone contains diagnostic sedimentary features of deep water turbidite deposition and forms the fourth submarine fan of the Permian Skoorsteenberg Formation. Although similar features can be seen in the same formation in other parts of the Tanqua Karoo, this geosite is easily accessible lying close to the roads to Sutherland via Ouberg and Verlatenkloof Passes. Modern day turbidites are only deposited in the ocean at depths greater than about 500 metres and this geosite enables one to see such deposits in the geological record.

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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