Doultons Claypit SSSI EarthCache

This cache has been archived.

Geocaching HQ Admin: It has now been over 30 days since Geocaching HQ submitted the disabled log below and, unfortunately, the cache owner has not posted an Owner maintenance log and re-enabled this geocache. As a result, we are now archiving this cache page.

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Hidden : 1/9/2013
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
2.5 out of 5

Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:


This is the first Earthcache placed in Saltwells Local Nature Reserve in Dudley.

The listed co-ordinates take you to the viewing point at the top of the Claypit, or as it is locally known the Marl Hole.

The route down to the claypit is to the right of the interpretation panel where there is a stile next to the field gate.
Please be careful walking down to the bottom as the path is steep and in the winter the paths at the bottom can become very wet so suitable footwear is recommended.

To claim this cache there is no need to climb the rock face; all answers are visible from the footpath.

Doulton’s Claypit is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its geological exposures. This is due to having one of the best exposures of the Productive Coal Measures in the South Staffordshire Coalfield. High cliffs show a section through the rocks of the Middle and Lower Coal Measures, laid down during the Carboniferous Period about 310 million years ago. These include river and lake deposits, as well as several coal seams. Views of the local South Staffordshire Coalfield measures can be seen on the southern slopes and to the east Silurian Fireclays form the impressive cliff faces.

Originally mined for coal, Doulton’s claypit became a site for clay extraction in about 1870.The claypit was quarried until the 1940’s by the Royal Doulton Company and the arising clay was moved by ‘tubs’ from the pit to the canal siding at Brewin’s cutting . From here it was shipped to the Potteries to be made into sanitary ware.

The interest in Doulton’s Claypit does not end with the geology and industrial history. Since quarrying ended, natural succession has taken place and today the Claypit is home to a wide range of wildlife.

In order to claim this Earthcache you will need to visit Doulton’s Claypit at the above co-ordinates but Question 1 could be answered in the comfort of your own home.

So to claim this Earthcache please Email me the answers to the following questions:

1) What is the difference between the terms erosion and weathering?

2) What evidence of weathering processes, if any, can be seen in the Claypit? Describe what you can see.

3) What evidence of erosion can be seen? Describe what you can see.

We hope you enjoy this Earthcache and your visit to Saltwells LNR but please don't post your answers in your log.

All feedback greatly recieved and feel free to post photos of your visit.

Cache placed by Saltwells LNR Warden Service.

Additional Hints (No hints available.)



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