Objects of geological interest (rocks, fossils, sedimentary structures etc.), unlike those of other disciplines, are generally static and don’t tend vary with the seasons. Fossils and outcrops in our area are well documented and are available in published literature. A list of the important publications is given below. 

Having said that, rock outcrops do significantly change as a result erosion, cliff falls, modification of beach and scar geomorphology, and new access to known localities. Also, sadly, access can become restricted and/or impassable and instances of these should also be recorded. Passing information of these occurrences to our membership in a timely manner (i.e. before erosion or foraging collectors remove or destroy them) is very important.

Identifying specimens or geological features that members have observed or collected is an important role of the Geological Recorder. The more information they can provided the better. If possible the specimen of a rock or fossil should be shown to the recorder as many identifying features, such as grain size and mineral composition, can only be identified with a hand lens.

In the rare case that a member finds something really unique and/or extraordinary (giant dinosaur footprints for example) it may be advisable to seek expert advice. In this case it is essential that the types of data described below are recorded. The geology curator at Whitby Museum should also be notified.

Location: grid reference and/or What3words

Site specific location: address or feature and your location when observing the outcrop or finding the specimen. When taking photographs, e.g. standing 10 meters SW, feature running N to S. Weather and tide condition. Where the fossil or rock was found (in the cliff, in the scar, loose in a pebble bank or on the beach). If possible a photograph of the specimen in situ before it was collected. Geological formation (if known).

Access to location (if applicable): Route to outcrop, height of the tide, potentional hazards (e.g. traversing boulder fields, crossing rivers, tide cut-off points, and must include a warning not to approach cliff faces if appropriate), transport options (parking, bus stops etc).

Observer: Surname, first name

Date: day, month, year

Photographs: 1. close-up, 2. wider landscape of larger geological features and site where the fossil/rock was found. 3. different angles of feature, 4. name of photographer.

Scale (depending on size): ruler, coin, hammer, person or building, or just a guess.

Comment: Some background on why you collected this specimen or took a photograph, what you found interesting, and what in particular you want to know about it.

These are not purely academic titles, but provide excellent guides to the geology and palaeontology of North East Yorkshire including details of excursions to some of the most interesting localities. They up to date with geological science and provide sources of further information. 

The BGS Geology Viewer has been designed to provide geology enthusiasts and the general public with bedrock and superficial geology maps of Great Britain. This can be accessed and downloaded as an app at: 

Hard copies of geological maps at 1:50,000 scale can also be viewed and ordered from this site.