Loch Gruinart, Islay
Geological Conservation Review site | GCR #2961 | Geomorphology | Coastal Geomorphology of Scotland
Scotland's geosites are chosen because of their local, national or international importance. Take only photos, leave only footprints: avoid causing any damage to this site. You can walk almost anywhere in Scotland without the need to ask permission or keep to paths, but you have a responsibility to care for your own safety, to respect people's privacy and peace of mind and to cause no damage.
This site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It is an offence to intentionally or recklessly damage the protected natural features of a SSSI, and this includes unauthorised sample collection.
The right of access does not extend to quarries, building sites or any land where public access is prohibited, or to the collection of geological samples.
Summary
SALTMARSH MORPHOLOGY
The saltmarshes within Loch Gruinart demonstrate particularly well the geomorphological attributes, loch-head and fringing saltmarsh type (a type confined to Scotland and Scandinavia). Developing in response to constricted tidal dynamics, the marshes display distinct, zoned drainage patterns. Saltpans are largely confined to the upper marsh; the creeks are linear and narrow. The saltmarhes not only form an integral part of the assemblage of coastal landforms on Islay, but are nationally important for studies of saltmarsh geomorphology.
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