Frequently asked Questions:

What are the benefits of Geoparks to us in the Keweenaw?

The main benefit is: it makes international tourists aware of the significance of the area, that it ranks with Geoparks they know in Europe, China and other areas where Geoparks are big attractions.

It also makes a way for the international significance to become better known in North America, even by or own teachers and students.  We live in a place which truly merits global status. 

And if we can be one of the first ones in North America, it will help us even more!

Who manages Geoparks? 

Local people, through an organization like the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce. It might managed in a way similar to the Copper Country Trail scenic byway.

Are there restrictions mandated that wouldn’t occur otherwise? 

There could be restrictions if we agreed through local democratic means that they were necessary, but we already have the main sites preserved by national parks, state parks, county parks, land trusts and private interests.

What does the United Nations have to do with this initiative?

The UNESCO association ensures the designation have an international, worldwide significance, similar to World Heritage Sites (The Statue of Liberty is  is a World Heritage Site) or International Biosphere Reserve (Isle Royale is one of these).  This might encourage more foreign tourists to come.

Download:

2009 Panel Discussion: Geoparks--Creating a vision for North America

George Wright Society