Figure 1. Secretary General of the Global Geopark Network (GGN) Guy Martini looks closely at fossilized wood in Tohupo Village, Bongomeme District, Gorontalo Regency, Tuesday (11/7/2023). He was impressed that fossilized wood was embedded in the ground, which appeared after being eroded by the river flow. (Photo: Isam)
GORONTALO REGENCY, Kominfotik – The fossil wood site in Tohupo Village, Bongomeme District, Gorontalo Regency, has attracted the interest of Secretary General of the Global Geopark Network (GGN) Guy Martini. He was impressed that fossilized wood was embedded in the ground, which appeared after being eroded by the river flow.
The Tohupo wood fossil, estimated to be around 23 million years old, is thought to have been buried due to volcanic activity. Its existence is about 10 meters from a total cliff height of 40 meters.
"This site needs further study, and we have international specialists (related to fossil wood). This will be an extraordinary attraction for the geopark,” said Martini during his visit Tuesday (11/7/2023).
To protect this unique natural heritage, he hopes the government and residents will continue preserving it. It is done by not destroying or taking part of the existing wood fossils.
"Residents must be the protectors of this site, don't let anyone take it and take it home," he added.
The man from France is sure that a lot of ancient wood still has turned into stone around the site. According to him, this condition is a potential for research, tourism, and economic development of the local community.
Guy Martini explained that there are only a few geosites in the world with such unique fossil wood as in Tohupo. He said Thailand, Greece, and Japan also have duplicate sites with their uniqueness.
The visit of the Secretary-General of GGN was accompanied by a team from the Indonesian Ministry of National Development Planning Gorontalo Province, the Aspiring Geopark Team, and the Gorontalo District Government will be the fourth day of the visit. Apart from the Tohupo wood fossils, Martini also saw geothermal at Pentadio Resort, Limboto Lake, and the Bantayo Poboide traditional house or traditional house in Gorontalo Regency.
Reporter : Isam