Abstract

BEATO BERGUA, Salvador; POBLETE PIEDRABUENA, Miguel Ángel  and  MARINO ALFONSO, José Luis. Proposal and Evaluation of Geomorphosites in Sierra del Aramo (Asturian Central Massif, Northern Spain). Invest. Geog [online]. 2020, n.101, e59866.  Epub Oct 02, 2020. ISSN 2448-7279.  https://doi.org/10.14350/rig.59866.

We analyzed the geomorphological heritage of Sierra del Aramo, located in the Asturian Central Massif (Cantabrian mountain range), in northwest Spain, just 20 km southwest of Oviedo, capital of the Principality of Asturias. Sierra del Aramo constitutes a mid-altitude calcareous range (Gamoniteiru Peak, 1791 m a.s.l. and Xistras, 1766 m a.s.l.); from the geological perspective, it is part of the Cantabrian zone, particularly of the Folds and Mantles Region. It extends along 15 km with an NNWSSE direction, separating the basins of the rivers Trubia to the west and Caudal to the east. The main objective of this research focuses is to list, select and evaluate the Sites of Geomorphological Interest (LIGm), or geomorphosites, to diagnose the condition and potential of these resources, which is essential for proper land-use planning.

The methodology used consisted of the application of several analytical approaches related to LIGms or geomorphosites, from which at least six successive phases are recognized. First, we conducted a geomorphological characterization and constructed a detailed geomorphological map at 1:25,000 scale. The second phase consisted in the listing and geomorphological classification of landforms into sets, units, and elements. From these, we selected the main LIGms to identify the most relevant landforms and sorted them according to locations or elements and into unique or representative, to establish the definitive list of LIGms. The fourth phase consisted of a detailed description of the core values of each LGIm or geomorphosite. Fifth, we evaluated each geomorphosite based on three values: intrinsic or scientific, added or cultural, and use and management. Finally, an overall assessment of the geomorphosites was conducted based on the score obtained, which supported their classification into three types: high, medium, and low value.

As a result of this research, we identified a rich geomorphological heritage was identified in Sierra del Aramo, namely morphostructural and karstic, composed of 4 sets, 17 units, and 27 elements. Six relevant geomorphosites are worth mentioning: Cuesta de Riosa, La Coruxeda-Las Xanas, Angliru, Gamoniteiro, Braña Linares, and Movimiento en masa de Bermiego; the first two obtained an outstanding score, while the others got a medium score. In general, all these geomorphosites are of exceptional aesthetic-landscape quality. In addition, accessibility to the six LIGms is very good, thanks to the network of regional and local roads (AS-228, MO-5, QU-6, RA-1, RI-5), tracks and trails, some of them cataloged (PR-143, G-106, G-109, G-207). These allow the conduct of the current economic activities, especially livestock ranching (mainly bovine for meat production) and outdoor leisure activities (walking, hiking, mountain ski), with limited impacts.

The potential for the use and management of the six geomorphosites is exceptionally high given the excellent conservation status of the traditional landscape and the high interest it motivates, both scientific-didactic and landscapeaesthetic. A high proportion of the area analyzed is part of Montes de Utilidad Pública (No.260, no.309), which would allow initiatives led by public administrations. In fact, these area ideal places for the implementation of projects addressing the interpretation of the geomorphological heritage for educational and geoturism uses. However, in order to avoid potential losses of the high heritage values of Sierra del Aramo, the flow of visitors and intensity of use should be properly managed through official regulations issued to preserve the natural heritage.

Keywords : Applied Geomorphology; Natural Geoheritage; Geomorphosites; Sierra del Aramo; Asturian Central Massif.