Examining the Spatial Variability of Geosite Assessment and Its Relevance in Geosite Management

Abstract Assessment is the initial step for experts on geoheritage and geotourism when designating geosites in a certain area. During this process, geologically interesting outcrops, formations places are examined with use of different criteria to see if they suitable geoconservation purposes. A quantitative assessment method—Modified Geosite Model (M-GAM)—was applied study area, which part Bakony–Balaton UNESCO Global Geopark Hungary. M-GAM uses weight factor (importance) that expresses opinion geotourists about 27 infrastructural, tourism scientific indicators. This was by questionnaires at nine At each site, we determined unique importance value, shows significant difference from site-to-site reflects opinions visitors geosite. The method originally aimed applying common during selected sites. While approach valid, demonstrated can be extended because weights spatially vary used draw conclusions geosite management. Practically, evaluation factors obtained way offers an individual development plan every site. current state improvement direction, level communication interpretability geo-objects also determined. In way, get more realistic strategy geosites.