Elevated reef at Folly Lighthouse, Portland

Dear Editor:

I seek to make correction to an article published in the Hospitality Jamaica section of The Gleaner of Wednesday, March 16, 2011. The article entitled 'Errol Flynn dock lines - March 2011' by Dale Westin seeks to promote local appreciation of our architectural heritage, encouraging persons to visit the Folly lighthouse. The writer, however, erroneously referred to the rock on which the lighthouse is situated as being of volcanic (igneous) origin. This is far from the truth.

The rock, sedimentary in origin, is documented on the published geological map (Sheet 14) of the Mines and Geology Division, as Elevated Reef. This material represents coral reef which has been exposed (either by uplift of the land or falling of sea level) in the recent geological past. It comprises coral and reef debris cemented together. The constant wave action on this mass has led to the rock being dissolved in some places, leaving resistant edges which are quite sharp and, as Mr Westin had recommended, requires proper footwear. With this in mind, if I may add, visitors to the lighthouse can also take the opportunity to see the reef material, a part of our geological heritage.

I congratulate Mr Westin on a very informative article and encourage him to continue the good work.

Yours etc.,
Suresh S. Bhalai
Mines and Geology Division
Min of Energy and Mining
Hope Gardens, Kingston 6