Posted on September 26, 2023
A series of fascinating new high-resolution images mapping out Cork’s coastline in stunning detail is in the process of being released to the general public.
Each Friday, commencing from September 15 last the images, produced by the INFOMAR (Integrated Mapping for the Sustainable Development of Ireland’s Marine Resource) will upload new maps to their website.
Their Blue Scale Map Series, a collection of 18 high-res bathymetric images measuring the depth of the seas around the Irish coastline, have been developed by a team of expert hydrographers and cartographers highlighting the topography of our coast in remarkable detail.
Bathymetric maps appear similar in style to three-dimensional topographic maps, which use lines to show the shape and high of features on land.
They can be used to help scientists determine where marine life lives, feeds and breeds. The data extrapolated can also be used to create maps of underwater habitats that assist in conversation and monitoring.
Established in 2006 INFOMAR, a joint initiative between the Geological Survey Ireland the Marine Institute, is currently the one of the largest and most comprehensive seabed mapping programmes in the world.
A spokesperson for the project said the ultimate aim being to map the entire 3,171km length of Ireland’s coastal seabed, which they said, “boasts some of the most unique and dynamic marine environments in Europe”.
“The Blue Scale Map Series is the culmination of more than a decade of work,” said the spokesperson.
“The ultimate aim being to map Ireland’s seabed and deliver a comprehensive baseline bathymetry dataset to underpin the future management of Ireland’s marine resource,” they added.
The firs pair of Cork maps detail the coastline around Bantry Bay and Mizen Head. Over the next three Friday’s maps of Roaringwater Bay, Galley Head and Cork Harbour will be released.
“The Blue Scale Map series offers a new and unique way not only to showcase the mapping effort to date, but also to visualize and communicate complex scientific information to the wider public,” said the INFOMAR spokesperson.
“As with all INFOMAR data, these high-resolution maps are available for free to download and have huge potential to communicate with local coastal communities and raise awareness on the importance of maintaining the health & integrity of our marine environment,” they added,
To view the maps already released and those set to be released over the coming weeks visit www.infomar.ie.
Bantry Bay:
Bantry Bay runs approximately 35 km (22 miles) from northeast to southwest into the Atlantic Ocean.
It is approximately 3 to 4 km (1.8 to 2.5 miles) wide at the head and 10 km (6.2 miles) wide at the entrance. Bantry Bay is a ria, a bay formed from a drowned river valley as a result of a relative rise in sea level.
It is a deep (approx 40 metres in the middle) and large natural bay, with one of the longest inlets in southwest Ireland, bordered on the north by the Beara Peninsula, which separates Bantry Bay from Kenmare Bay.
The bay has been witness to numerous shipwrecks over the years.
In 1981, while clean-up efforts using sonar sweeps for the ill-fated Betelgeuse were underway, the wreck of the French frigate La Surveillante, which had been scuttled during a storm north of Whiddy Island on January 2, 1797, was found.
The La Surveillante has since been mapped in high resolution by INFOMAR.
Mizen Head:
Mizen Head is traditionally regarded as the most southerly point of mainland Ireland, although Brow Head is the actual southernmost point, beating Mizen Head by only nine-metres.
The headland’s Irish name, Carn Uí Néid, means ‘cairn of Néid’s grandson, in reference to, a leader of the Fomorians in Irish mythology.
One of the main transatlantic shipping routes passes close by to the south and Mizen Head was, for many seafarers, the first (or last) sight of Europe.
To the south, the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, ‘Ireland’s Teardrop’, was the last landfall seen by many emigrants to America and one of Marconi’s first telegraph stations.
Mizen Signal Station holds an important part in the history of Safety at Sea communications and in 1931 the station became home to the first Radio Beacon in Ireland.
Roaringwater Bay:
Roaringwater Bay in west Cork is the southernmost bay in Ireland.
It is designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the Habitats Directive. The marine area is designated as a large shallow inlet and bay. The bay supports a variety of sub-tidal and intertidal sedimentary and reef habitats.
These include habitats that are sensitive to pressures which might arise from fishing and aquaculture, such as maerl (corraline algae), seagrass and kelp reefs.
Seven Heads:
The Seven Heads Peninsula, situated on the south-western coast, is a captivating region known for its rich maritime history and unique geology.
Maritime activities have long played a significant role in the region. The peninsula’s strategic location has made it an important maritime hub for centuries, witnessing trade, fishing, and maritime exploration. Its coastline is dotted with fishing villages that still retain their traditional charm, showcasing the enduring connection between the local communities and the sea.
Geologically, the Seven Heads Peninsula offers a fascinating tapestry, boasting dramatic cliffs, rugged headlands and hidden coves carved by the relentless power of the Atlantic Ocean.
The exposed rock formations reveal the area’s complex geological history, with layers dating back millions of years. From fossil-rich limestone to unique geological features, such as sea stacks and natural arches, the peninsula’s geology is a treasure trove for geologists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Cork Harbour:
Cork Harbour is a natural harbour and river estuary at the mouth of the River Lee.
Spike Island is centrally located within view of the mouth of the harbour and was part of a strategic military coastal defence system for the surrounding areas.
The main tributary to the harbour is the River Lee which, after flowing through Cork city, passes through the upper harbour (Lough Mahon) in the north-west before passing to the west of Great Island (Cobh) with the main channel emerging into the lower harbour past Haulbowline Island.
For conservation and navigation purposes, the harbour is often separated into ‘Upper Cork Harbour’ (following the River Lee from Cork city to the towns of Passage West and Monkstown) and ‘Lower Cork Harbour’ (separated from the upper harbour by Great Island).
The depth of the harbour has been measured at between four fathoms (7.3m) and 14 fathoms (26m).
