CRJ200 flight spoilers fault and GLD spoilers deployed EICAS messages displayed after flight spoiler handle was stowed during descent. QRH procedures were complied with; an emergency declared and a flaps 20 landing ensued.

Narrative

When descending on the downwind; we received caution messages on the EICAS for a spoilerons fault; flight spoilers fault; and GLD [Ground Lift Dumping] spoilers deploy. These indications were given after the flight spoilers were stowed descending below 7;000 FT at 210 KIAS. The Captain; who was the pilot not flying; ran the appropriate QRH procedures as I advised ATC of the situation; and we were given vectors for holding. We accomplished all appropriate checklists and QRH procedures. The Captain advised the Flight Attendant of the situation and attempted to contact Dispatch; but was put on hold. We were getting low on fuel; so we elected to land. The Captain declared an emergency with ATC; and we were given vectors for the visual approach and we landed without incident. Maintenance was advised once we were on the ground. We were given an indication from the EICAS display and caution message lights. We referenced the flight control synoptic page to verify the position of the flight controls in question. I do not know what caused the system faults or what caused the GLD spoilers to deploy in flight. We conducted a flaps 20 landing per the QRH.