ABSTRACT Sensitization workshops as an exampleof education for geoconservation of geological sites of the "Quadrilatero Ferrifero" Geopark, MinasGerais State: The project of implementation of pilot geological sites in the Quadrilátero Ferrífero Geopark, supported by the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG), involved workshops to raise awareness surrounding communities. The objectives were: (a) to introduce concepts of geological heritage, geoconservation and geodiversity; (b) disseminate knowledge of the geological heritage present on the Quadrilátero Ferrífero and (c) increase community participation in the regional development based on the geopark concept. The workshops were conducted at the site of the Serra da Piedade, Serra do Caraça and Mina de Passagem and based on the method of action research with recreational activities to minimize barriers and facilitate understanding. Despite the heterogeneity of the group, it was perceived unanimous interest in the value of geological heritage virtually unknown by the community. The participants could also clearly feel the conciliatory aspect of the geopark proposal regarding the conservation and economic use of the territory.
