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Additional or concurrent sessions may be added. Any paper pertaining to cave and karst management, use or study is invited.
Online Secure Registration 2005 NCKMS Registration as well as registration for Project Underground and Bat Conservation International Workshops. Mail-in Registration
Abstracts
This alphabetical list is as of September 26. A few additional papers are still due. The schedule is forthcoming. A poster session is scheduled for late afternoon on Tuesday. Contact Michael Warner mike@speleobooks.com if you want to submit a poster.
STRATEGY FOR MANAGING ALPHA RADIATION IN SHOW CAVES TO PROTECT CAVES, CAVE EMPLOYEES, AND CAVE BUSINESSES
Thomas Aley, President, Ozark Underground Laboratory, Inc., Protem, MO
65733
Kimberly Castillon, Assistant Area Director, U.S. Department of Labor,
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Kansas City, MO 64120
John Sagendorf, President, National Caves Association and General Manager,
Howe Caverns, Howes Cave, NY 12092
Abstract
Alpha radiation due to radon and thoron daughters is routinely encountered in show caves and has been the subject of several papers at previous cave management symposiums. Alpha radiation has been correlated with an increased risk of lung cancer. This correlation is largely based upon studies of lung cancer in career miners exposed to alpha radiation and other carcinogens and lung irritants. However, the general regulatory model is the linear, no threshold ‰ model, which means that any radiation increases the risk of subsequent lung cancer and that it is the lifetime dose, rather than the rate, that correlates with the risk. This approach was affirmed in June by a National Academy of Sciences panel.
The authors of this paper and their respective organizations recognized that a management strategy was needed to provide reasonable protection for show caves, cave employees, and cave businesses. To address the issue an Alliance Agreement was developed between the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Ozark Underground Laboratory (OUL). The OUL's participation was funded by the National Caves Association (NCA). This paper outlines the benefits of Alliance Agreements, details results from the project, and discusses the emerging cave radiation management strategy being implemented by the NCA as a result of this Alliance Agreement.
POSTER: Instrumental Challenges and Unexpected Research Potential Revealed by a North American Cave Drip Monitoring Network
Patricia A. Beddows1*, Ren Zhang1, Henry P. Schwarcz1, Derek C. Ford1, Kenrick Chin2
1 School of Geography and Earth Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
2 McMaster Institute for Applied Radiation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
* Corresponding author. Beddows@mcmaster.ca
Abstract
A transect of six caves across North America were instrumented with three drip monitoring stations each over the hydrologic year, 2004-2005, in order to collect data on drip rate, electrical conductivity and temperature, plus monthly bulk drip water samples. Local cavers and cave managers have conscientiously supported this project at: Howe Caverns (NY), Marengo Caves (IN), Rats Nest Cave (AB), and three caves on Vancouver Island (BC). The major goal of this research is to better understand the hydrochemistry of the climate-drip water-speleothem system on which paleoclimate studies of cave deposits are based. The number of probes and robustness required of the equipment exceeded that obtainable within budget from commercial manufacturers. We built our own. Innovations in conceptual design and construction of the drip stations will be presented to demonstrate concepts useful in developing monitoring networks of use in cave research and management. As the monitoring progressed, significant new features were seen in the data beyond the original scope of the project. The results from the three caves on Vancouver Island represent baseline data with which the impact of future clear cut logging may be evaluated. The temperature data from the two tourist caves include small-scale fluctuations potentially due to lighting and tourist visitation. We suggest that such unexpected aspects of research data are valuable opportunities on which karst managers may capitalize, thus underscoring the need for effective and open communication between scientists and stakeholders in order to bring these opportunities forward.
POSTER: Potential for Inland Dispersal of Injection Well Effluent in Coastal Carbonate Aquifers: Evidence from Caribbean Yucatan Coast
Patricia A. Beddows1*, Pete L. Smart1, Samantha L. Smith2‡, Fiona F. Whitaker2
1 School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
2 Department of Geology, University of Bristol, UK
* Corresponding author, currently School of Geography and Earth Sciences, McMaster University, Canada. Beddows@mcmaster.ca
‡ Currently Earth Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Canada
Abstract
The conventional model for diffuse flow coastal aquifers indicates that fresh water and shallow saline water move coastward, with a compensatory deeper inflow of saline water. Abstraction wells are usually situated inland, while disposal wells into the shallow saline water may be located nearer the coast. The injected effluent is assumed to be attenuated as it slowly (m/year) flows coastward, and therefore is anticipated to have limited effect on the coastal waters and no impact on the inland supply wells. In contrast to such diffuse flow conditions, dissolution in carbonate aquifers leads to the development of organized conduit systems with rapid water flow. In the Caribbean Yucatan aquifer the vast majority of flow (>99%) occurs via the conduit system. Flow within these conduits is strongly influenced by sea level fluctuations, with rapid (100's m/day) net saline inland flow observed during periods of high mean sea level. These rapid saline inflows occur along at least an 80 km segment of the Caribbean coast. When buoyant nutrient-rich effluent is injected into such an aquifer it will rise to the fresh-saline interface, and eventually become integrated into the conduit flows. Depending on mean sea level, it may then be transported rapidly inland towards the supply wells, or coastward to discharge onto the barrier reef. Coastal disposal wells are common around the world; however this research suggests that the sustainability of this practice bears review in coastal carbonate aquifers.
Microbial Biospeleology: Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Penelope J. Boston, Earth and Environmental Sciences Department, New Mexico Tech
801 Leroy Place, Socorro, NM 87801
Diana E. Northup, Biology Department, University of New Mexico
MSC03 2020, Albuquerque, NM 87131
Absract
In caves, microorganisms (algae, bacteria, archaea, fungi, protoza, and viruses) are major producers and consumers of organic matter and contribute to the formation of several types of minerals. However, with the notable exception of sulfide-based ecosystems, little is known about community composition, their specific adaptations to the subterranean ecosystem, their biogeographical distribution or their ecology. Interdisciplinary studies, using recently developed techniques, are now providing the tools with which to make great strides in elucidating aspects of subterranean microbial ecology that go beyond the traditional “who’s home” studies. As we come to realize the value of microorganisms in cave ecosystems, we are also realizing the impact that humans can have on these microbial communities. Advances in our understanding of the functioning of microorganisms in caves and of the means to protect and preserve them are critical to the health and beauty of caves and their ecosystems.
Photography and the Digital Image Workflow as Cave Management Tools.
Kevin Downey, PPA Master Photographer, Principle of Lascaux Digital Studios, Florence, Massachusetts
The documentation and inventory of caves is usually seen as primarily geographic data collection, that is a location and map of the cave, perhaps with some notes regarding features. This has been the most fundamental tool for planning and resource management. For the past several years the standards and accuracy of cave inventory and cartography has been steadily increasing, At the same time the quality, capability and usefulness of photographic documentation and the use of digital database management tools has vastly improved. Many techniques for relatively low impact in cave photography has produced vast amounts of visual documentation. In many cases these materials are not utilized, or are underused, in cave management. A discussion of current real and potential uses of well organized, high quality image database is presented. Some ideas for standards and methods for organizing and incorporating digital image management are explored. The uses for a visual archive of cave resources is really only limited by imagination and of course the interest and enthusiasm of those involved. At present there is an unprecedented volunteer base of motivated photographers working in caves. The prudent management of this volunteer resource is also a logical and important tool. The nature and format of visual documentation is also a very fast evolving area. The nature of the cave, the setting and the management goals should be reflected in choices of methods, materials, formats, archiving and the standards for both the photographs and photographers.
2007 NCKMS, ST. LOUIS MISSOURI
William R. Elliott, Ph.D., Cave Biologist, Missouri Department of Conservation, Resource Science Division, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180
Jim Kaufmann, Missouri Department of Conservation and Missouri Caves & Karst Conservancy
Abstract
With over 6,000 known caves, Missouri is a major karst state with many ongoing cave and karst studies and land management activities. The 2007 National Cave & Karst Management Symposium will be co-hosted by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Caves & Karst Conservancy (MCKC). We will present information and photos of the meeting place, Powder Valley Nature Center, Kirkwood, in the greater St. Louis area. There will be an emphasis on hydrology and biology, but plenty of other information too. We are starting to plan sessions and field trips now.
Powder Valley is an educational facility with a fine auditorium and meeting rooms, which MDC will offer at no charge to the symposium. Arrangements are being made with a nearby hotel, where we have hosted other conferences. We plan to host a free, evening, public event at Powder Valley to pull in interested cavers, landowners, show cave operators, and the public to hear a panel of interesting speakers. I invite all who are interested to come to this presentation and comment on what you would like to see and experience at the 2007 NCKMS.
KARST CONSERVATION IN THE OZARKS: FORTY YEARS AT TUMBLING CREEK CAVE
William R. Elliott, Ph.D., Cave Biologist, Missouri Department of Conservation, Resource Science Division, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180
Thomas Aley, President, Ozark Underground Laboratory, Inc., Protem, MO
65733
Abstract
This paper will detail 40 years of scientific work and land management relating to Tumbling Creek Cave (TCC), in Missouri, USA. TCC is a famous educational and research cave on a 1000-ha rural property called the Ozark Underground Laboratory. The cave’s catchment area is 2,349 ha. TCC has the highest cave biodiversity west of the Mississippi River, with about 111 species, including 12 troglobites and three endangered species: gray bats, Indiana bats and Tumbling Creek cavesnail, Antrobia culveri.
The owners, Tom and Cathy Aley, lead low-impact educational tours of the epikarst and the attractive cave for college and professional groups. TCC is protected and only light agriculture is practiced on the land. However, in the 1990s a cattle operation on a nearby farm caused overgrazing and forest clearing, loading the groundwater with sediments. Losing streams carried the sediments down into the cave, and muck built up in the cave stream. In 1972 15,000 cavesnails were estimated to live under the stream cobbles, but a decline began by 1991. By 2001 only a few cavesnails could be found. However, more cavesnails were found in 2005, and they may be recovering as a result of land restoration work, including replanting of 67,000 trees of ten native species to restore the land.
In 2004 a team built a large chute gate on the natural entrance to restore the gray bat colony. The grays increased after the gate was built, as measured by internal visual surveys, guano estimates, and infrared video counts of out flights. A number of other studies will be detailed.
It is troubling that one of the most protected private caves in the Ozark Region, still developed such ecological problems. The lessons learned and the methods developed will be useful to others restoring cave communities or living on karst.
THE MDC METHOD: COUNTING BATS WITH INFRARED VIDEO
William R. Elliott, Ph.D., Cave Biologist, Missouri Department of Conservation, Resource Science Division, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180
Abstract
It is now possible to use inexpensive digital-8 or mini-DV camcorders and IR lamps to record bat outflights, and automatically count the bats with a computer program. I used a stopwatch count method for estimating Myotis velifer (cave Myotis) and M. grisescens (gray bat) outflights in Texas and Missouri. I began using a Sony digital-8 video camera five years ago to record outflights of grays from Missouri caves. Several experiments with near-infrared illumination eventually led me to use the recently developed Wildlife Engineering IR lamps, available in two types. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) developed a statistical sampling method, in which 40 percent of the video sequence is counted by one or two observers. I will present details of this "MDC method", in which an estimate of the total outflight is made with 95 percent confidence limits. We recently worked with Bruce Sabol and Bob Currie, who use a thermal infrared camera to record bat outflights. We will all soon compare several methods: MDC method, guano-based estimates and Sabol's software, which uses image processing on a Windows computer to derive a total estimate of an outflight. This software method will work with thermal imaging and near-IR imaging.
CRITICAL ISSUES IN CAVE BIOLOGY
William R. Elliott, Ph.D., Cave Biologist, Missouri Department of Conservation, Resource Science Division, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180
Abstract
In this paper I discuss the most critical issues in North American cave biology, particularly as related to conservation and cave management. The major impacts on cave life have been caused by water projects, land development, killing and disturbing animals, sedimentation, contaminants, and nutrient loss and enrichment. Less obvious impacts are trampling, cave invasions by exotic and pest species, and isolation of caves by mining and quarrying.
The most dramatic declines in macroscopic cave faunas were caused by the direct disturbance and killing of bats and massive kills of stygobites from water projects, sewage, and chemicals. Perhaps six cave species became extinct as a result of human activities, but other extinctions may have occurred. Many species of bats, cavefishes, and crustaceans cannot be found in their historic sites today. The subtle and inexorable decline of some cave communities over decades may go unnoticed because of a lack of baseline surveys and systematic monitoring.
Although many plans have been written and 36 cave species are under federal protection, many other cave species are threatened by human activities. We are hampered by a lack of qualified manpower, the taxonomic crisis, the vertebrate bias, and pressure on caves by increasingly mobile trespassers, looters, and uninformed recreators. Certain regional and local strategies are discussed.
MISSOURI’S CAVE FOCUS AREAS
William R. Elliott, Ph.D., Cave Biologist, Missouri Department of Conservation, Resource Science Division, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180
Abstract
In 2004 the author developed a set of "cave focus areas" for the Missouri Department of Conservation's "Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy", using cave biodiversity values, bat cave priorities, and major karst springs in a multidimensional GIS study. The basis of the study was the Missouri Cave Life Database (CLD). I will demonstrate some aspects of the CLD, which I developed over seven years with several contributing research partners. The CLD is used for biogeographic and biodiversity analyses, checklists for cave studies, and the like. I derived 97 cave focus areas, which became polygon shapefiles in ArcGIS. Each focus area takes in one or more caves based on multiple scores. These areas were melded into an overall plan by MDC for long-term wildlife conservation planning and environmental review. Large karst springs, important bat caves and high biodiversity caves are now identified in an action plan that will include dye tracing studies, cave studies, cave management work, and cooperative work with private and public landowners.
POSTER: GEOMICROBIOLOGY OF SUBMERGED CAVES ASSOCIATED WITH CENTRAL FLORIDA SPRINGS
Rima Franklin, Amy Giannotti, and Terrence Tysall, The Cambrian Foundation
1234 East Concord Street, Suite A, Orlando, FL 32803
Aaron Mills, University of Virginia, Department of Environmental Sciences,
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Abstract
Underwater limestone caves are common in Florida in association with the numerous springs that issue from the karst landscape. Extensive microbial mats and diverse communities of endemic invertebrates have been observed by cave divers, but, as ecosystems, the caves are not well understood. An in-depth analysis of microbial diversity, bacterial morphology, water chemistry, and invertebrate abundance and distribution revealed that bacterial production from reduced inorganic compounds in these springs may provide a plentiful source of energy and nutrition to support higher trophic levels found there - including several newly discovered species. Additionally, the microbes could play an active role in speleogenesis in these phreatic caves, given that sulfuric acid is produced as a metabolic by-product of microbial sulfur oxidation. Results from this study will be submitted to the Florida Park Service and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and appropriate conservation recommendations will be forwarded to the management staff to further protect these delicate environments and their endangered inhabitants.
DOWN UNDER!! INCORPORATING CAVE AND KARST RESEARCH INTO PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION.
Amy Giannotti, Rima Franklin, and Terrence Tysall, The Cambrian Foundation,
1234 East Concord Street, Suite A, Orlando, FL 32803
Abstract
Join the Cambrian Foundation team as we highlight two of our recent research expeditions in the underwater caves of central Florida and the Yucatan peninsula. This presentation/poster is a MUST for teachers, parents and students alike! The Cambrian Foundation, a 501c3, based in Orlando, Florida, is dedicated to research, education, preservation, and exploration of the aquatic realm. Specifically, we specialize in research and technical diving, gathering data for scientists in places where they cannot go. In addition to research and as our mission statement indicates, our other passion is education...for only when someone understands something will he or she then learn to protect it; therefore, education equals preservation. This presentation will highlight Cambrian Foundation research expeditions where youth of all ages (elementary through college-aged) are incorporated and integrated into an actual field research expedition. You will see students exploring the Florida aquifer via a human ROV (remotely operated vehicle), surveying an unexplored cave in the middle of the Mexican jungle using underwater cave survey techniques, dealing with the challenges of hauling gear and equipment over difficult terrain, producing a map for a landowner in the Yucatan, and learning firsthand about the geology/ecology/and biology in the world beneath their feet. As the students have learned, cave research - especially in remote areas- is challenging; but collecting data crucial to protecting these endangered habitats is priceless.
CAVE AND KARST CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE
James R. Goodbar, senior Cave/Karst specialist, Bureau of Land Management, United States Department of Interior, 620 E green St., Carlsbad, NM 88220
Abstract
A center of Excellence is a concept that brings together state-of-the-art practices, actions, and technologies on a specific topic or subject area. By this definition there are numerous Cave and Karst Centers of Excellence already in existence around the world. Identifying these Centers is based on recognizing current activities taking place in the area and their mutual benefit to healthy cave and karst environments, and to the benefit of the people. To achieve this goal, partnerships among governmental agencies as well as academic, non-governmental organizations, private, and international partners can be brought together. These partnerships will help build an infrastructure to raise awareness and foster an understanding of cave and karst resources within a region and around the country.
The goal of a Center of Excellence should be to embrace resource protection and management through the collaboration of the partners and the education of the public. As a Center of Excellence the cooperators focus on objectives that highlight the best management practices of cave and karst resources and their interpretation and environmental education of the public.
Major objectives in establishing a Cave and Karst Center of Excellence are to:
(1) Develop working groups and partnerships focused on cave and karst actions and issues. (2) Establish community based tourism opportunities to communicate with and educate the public about cave and karst environments. (3) Foster, concentrate, and develop technical expertise for the protection, conservation, and restoration of cave and karst terrains.
KARST MANAGEMENT IN BRITISH COLUMBIA: THE TRANSITION TO A RESULTS-BASED FOREST PRACTICES FRAMEWORK AND LEGALLY SUPPORTED PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR KARST RESOURCE FEATURES
Paul Griffiths, Cave Management Services/KarstCare, 544 Springbok Road,
Campbell River, British Columbia CANADA V9W 8A2
Bill I'Anson, 2483 Wilcox Terrace, Victoria, British Columbia CANADA V8Z 5R7
Peter Bradford, Resource Stewardship Evaluation Officer, Forest Practices Branch,
British Columbia Ministry of Forests and Range, PO Box 9513 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria,
British Columbia CANADA V8W9C2
Abstract
The release of karst inventory standards and vulnerability assessment procedures in 2001, and best practice guidelines for harvest operations on karst in 2003, has given impetus to more comprehensive management of karst resources in British Columbia's (BC) forests. In March 2004, the BC Government introduced the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA), a new results-based regulatory framework for forest practices with profound implications for karst management in BC. Draft legal orders made pursuant to regulations under FRPA identify caves, surface karst features (including swallets and karst springs), and karst terrain of very high or high vulnerability as the categories of karst resource features that would
be legally subject to the practice requirement of not damaging them or rendering them ineffective when conducting primary forest activities. Under the proposed orders and FRPA, it is the responsibility of forest companies to recognize and assess karst features and karst terrains, and to prescribe the appropriate forest practices for them, using professional advice when needed. Twenty-one environmental indicators and monitoring/evaluation protocols for karst resource features were developed in 2004 and field-tested in 2005 as part of a province-wide evaluation program. These protocols will be used to assess the effectiveness of karst management strategies and practices in BC's forests.
THE OREGON CAVE CONTROVERSIES AND THE NATIONAL COMMISSION ON RISK ASSESSMENT AND RISK MANAGEMENT
William R. Halliday, Founder, Cascade Grotto of the NSS, 6530 Cornwall Court, Nashville, TN 37205
Abstract
Since the 2003 National Cave and Karst Management Symposium, the ferocity of controversies at Oregon Caves National Monument has diminished but deterioration of the cave under National Park Service management has begun to attract newspaper attention. The "spelunker tour" through a paleontological site has been deferred pending a new cave management plan. Several erroneous and misleading publications have withdrawn from general distribution and from the monument bookstore. Ludicrous misinformation persists in the Monument's "Official Map and Guide", however, and even more extensively in the guides' patter.
Despite this vigorous misinformation, it is clear that Oregon Caves National Monument no longer meets expectations for continued status as a unit of the National Park System. It should be transferred to the U.S. Forest Service, the Oregon State Park System, Josephine County or a private operator. Meanwhile, however, recommendations of the National
Commission on Risk Assessment and Risk Management should be applied to the forthcoming cave management plan. These include risks both to humans and to the environment, with emphasis on such constructive concepts as avoidance of "command and control" decisions and involvement of "stakeholders" such as cavers throughout the valuation and management process. In addition to their potential role at Oregon Cave National Monument, their application at Mount St. Helens in 1980 would have saved some 50 lives and much controversy about access for study of its caves after the eruption. Similarly in 2005, their application would have prevented the current controversy about alleged but undemonstrated carbon dioxide in caves of Kilauea Caldera, HI. The NSS should support widespread use of these principles.
POSTER: MARBLE CAVES OF THE KLAMATH MOUNTAINS, OREGON AND CALIFORNIA: a photographic overview
William R. Halliday, Klamath Mountains Conservation Task Force 2, 6530 Cornwall Court, Nashville,TN 37205 bnawrh@webtv.ne
Rich Collier, Klamath Mountains Conservation Task Force 2, 6008 Ventura Canyon Avenue, Valley Glen, CA 91401 rich-collier@adelphia.com
Abstract
In 1909, President William Howard Taft proclaimed Oregon Caves National Monument specifically to protect its scientific value. At that time, the only evident scientific value was Oregon Cave's supposed uniqueness as a cave in marble. Today hundreds of caves are known in marble in the Klamath Mountains and Sierra Nevada of Oregon and California, and their speleogenesis is known to be essentially identical to that of caves in limestone. Many extend to non-calcareous country rock which is not part of the cave. This short photographic overview demonstrates additional cave resources in the Klamath Mountains of Oregon and California, with a very brief additional overview of marble caves in the Sierra Nevada for comparison. Whereas the gutted hulk of Oregon Cave retains its value primarily as a hands-on show cave, additional protection is warranted for several of the depicted caves in the Klamath Mountains. Most are within national forests, and a unified cave management plan is needed for those within national forests in the Klamath Mountains.
Thinking about Karst and World Heritage
Elery Hamilton Smith, Charles Stuart University, P.O. Box 36, Carlton South Victoria, Australia 3053
Karst is already well represented on the World Heritage register, but there are still many gaps. The World Heritage Committee is looking for a framework defining categories of natural heritage so that priorities can be set in order to determine the comprehensiveness and credibility of the the registered sites. This paper is an early step in establishing appropriate categories for the classification of karst. It lists proposed categories, then lists the existing World Heritage sites in each and finally provides examples of sites which might extend the comprehensiveness of the total list. Comments and suggestions are sought on the categories suggested; not the sites as these are only for illustrative purposes at this stage.
COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS BETWEEN UNIVERSITY AND NON-PROFIT GROUPS IN THE EVALUATION OF CAVE AND KARST RESOURCES
Melissa Hendrickson, Pat Kambesis, and Chris Groves, Hoffman Environmental Research Institute, Western Kentucky University, 1906 College Heights Boulevard, Bowling Green Kentucky, 42101
Richie Kessler, The Nature Conservancy, 306 Cambridge Way, Campbellsville, Kentucky, 42718
Abstract
This paper details an example of ongoing interactions between Hoffman Environmental Research Institute and non-profit groups needing cave and karst property evaluated for purposes of resource protection. Among other things, the Institute studies best management practices and other resource protection methodologies in karst and other rural areas in order to enhance environmental quality. The Institute is also involved in developing specialized GIS tools to support the projects involved with resource management, particularly with regard to karst. The Institute partners in several such projects with The Nature Conservancy, an organization that strives to preserve plants, animals and natural communities by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive. Study sites in this evaluation include Munin Cave in Green County, Kentucky and Garnett Cave in Adair County, Kentucky.
These projects demonstrate techniques for evaluating cave and karst properties. A work plan was formulated in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy. Field methods involved in the project included cave survey and inventory, biologic specimen collection, a dye trace, water quality sampling, and photo documentation. GIS methods were then employed to present the findings of the field methods. The results of the study were used for The Nature Conservancy to help evaluate the resources they have. In Munin cave, the survey and inventory has been completed, with a dye trace ongoing to understand the hydrology between two sections of cave on the property. Several cave adapted specimens were found at both sites, these are being classified by The Nature Conservancy biologists.
CASTLEGUARD CAVE DIGITAL MAPPING – VOLUNTEERISM OVER FOUR DECADES
Greg Horne, Senior Park Warden, Jasper National Park, Box 10, Jasper, Alberta
T0E 1E0, Canada
Abstract
Though known since 1920’s, Canada’s longest (20 kms) and arguable most famous cave, Castleguard, was only extensively explored starting in 1967. These initial explorers were part of the McMaster University Karst Research Group. Continuing to the present; cavers have participated in the exploration, study and mapping of this international calibre resource located in Banff National Park. It is the only known cave under an icefield that has passages blocked by glacial ice extruding into it.
The relationship between Parks Canada and cavers, was a rocky one. By the mid 1990’s a willingness to build better communication and understanding between Parks Canada and the Alberta Speleological Society had begun. Cooperative projects involved sharing of information, participating in cave exploration, survey and restoration activities. As time passed encouragement was given towards pulling together vast amounts of survey data for the goal of the creating a large-scale map.
By November 2004, Dan Green of the Alberta Speleological Society, was ready to release the first large scale and digital map of the cave. It consists of two versions; a set of six map sheets 1 X 2 meters and a set of 56 field sheets 8.5 X 11 inches in size.
This volunteer project highlights the possibility of forming a partnership between a special interest user group and Parks Canada for the purposes of natural resource discovery, inventory, and therefore better resource management. Continued communication and interaction between user and land manager are required to maintain this mutually beneficial relationship
CAVE CLASSIFICATION FOR ACCESS MANAGEMENT IN NATIONAL PARK CAVES OF CANADE
Greg Horne, Senior Park Warden, Jasper National Park, Box 10, Jasper, Alberta
T0E 1E0, Canada
Abstract
At least 12 of 41 national parks in Canada have caves. A group of 6 parks in western Canada are adopting a 3 tier classification system to manage access. Class 1 caves are access by application – highest resource value, not for recreation, each visit must add knowledge or give net benefit to the cave. Class 2 caves are access by permit – recreational use allowed, some management concerns, education/orientation possible during permit process. Class 3 caves have unrestricted public access – few or no management concerns, no permit required.
In order to determine which class each known cave sits in, 3 sets of factors are considered; a) in-cave resources b) surface resources and c) accident & rescue potential.
Cave exploration in the western Canadian mountain national parks began in the 1960’s. This current access policy has been influenced by the remote rugged nature of the landscape and the need to work with speleological groups to explore and document park features. A change in park staff awareness of the resource has contributed greater exchange of information and opportunities for cavers to gain access and the park to know more about its resources.
THE GLOBAL KARST DIGITAL PORTAL: AN EMERGING COLLABORATORIUM WILL ENHANCE INFORMATION EXCHANGE AMONG CAVE AND KARST MANAGERS
Louise D. Hose, National Cave and Karst Research Institute, 1400 Commerce Drive, Carlsbad, NM 88220
Robert Brinkmann, Department of Geography and Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave, CPR 107, Tampa, FL 33620
Diana E. Northup, Biology Department, University of New Mexico, 1 University of New Mexico, MSC03 2020, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
Abstract
The National Cave and Karst Research Institute, the University of South Florida, and the University of New Mexico are developing an on-line portal to enhance information access and improve communication within the national and international karst community. The partnership will develop an on-line portal housed at the three institutions and provide free access to a variety of information including journal articles, images, maps, datasets, bibliographies, and gray literature. This holistic undertaking seeks to bring karst research and management forward in the digital age. In addition, the project will create global connections by including a user-generated submission process for enhancing the diversity of materials available through the portal. We are currently transforming A Guide to Speleological Literature of the English Language 1794-1996 into the portal's first searchable on-line product. In the future, thematic areas, such as cave sediments, conduit flow models, best practices for management, established restoration techniques, geoengineering, and speleothem records of climate change, are among the many topics to be included in the portal. A key component of this project is the gathering of lesser-known materials, such as masters' theses, technical reports, agency file reports, maps, images, and newsletters. We seek input from the karst community as to what materials are most critical to bring on-line at the outset of the project and on the identification of significant repositories of karst digital data and information. The U.S. Congress has charged NCKRI to centralize and standardize speleological information and to promote national and international cooperation. The international community has expressed a desire for greater information coordination and global accessibility. Thus, this project responds to disciplinary needs by integrating individual scientists into a global network through the karst information portal.
MACRO-INVERTEBRATE SURVEY OF TIMPANOGOS CAVE
Jon Jasper, Resource Management Specialist, Timpanogos Cave National Monument,
RR 3, Box 200, American Fork, UT 84003
Dr. Riley Nelson, Department of Integrative Biology, Brigham Young University
Provo, UT 84602
Abstract
Under the funding of the National Park Service’s Inventory and Monitoring Program, Dr. Riley Nelson of Brigham Young University was contacted to perform a 2-year survey to identify the macro-invertebrate species of the Timpanogos Cave. Species were collected in 87 pitfall traps placed throughout the entire cave system. These traps were collected every 2 weeks, sorted, and identified. Preliminary results show that a total of 29 taxon were collected, most from Sciaridae, Mycetophilidae, and Anobiidae. From this study, indicator species will be selected for monitoring the health of the cave.
STUDYING CAVE VISITATION TRENDS AT TIMPANOGOS CAVE NATIONAL MONUMENT & NUTTY PUTTY CAVE
Jon Jasper, Resource Management Specialist, Timpanogos Cave National Monument
RR 3, Box 200, American Fork, UT 84003
Abstract
Visitation data is vital information for properly managing the use of caves. This presentation will show how visitation information has been collected, organized, and analyzed for the tours at Timpanogos Cave National Monument and uncontrolled visitation problems of the nearby Nutty Putty Cave.
Size, time, and date for each tour are recorded at Timpanogos Cave National Monument. The data was used to graph tour size frequency, seasonal and daily visitation fluxes, and the variability between tours sold and tours given.
At Nutty Putty Cave, a StowAway® light intensity datalogger was used to record the maximum light exposures over 15-minute intervals. This method collected high-resolution visitation data used to graph visitation by season, week, days of the week, and time of day.
At Nutty Putty Cave, a surface register was used to collect visitation demographics. The data showed that local Boy Scouts troops were the largest visiting group with 17% of the total visitation and that NSS grottos were the smallest visiting groups of 1% of the total visitation.
Visitation data is a useful tool that can drive management changes. At Timpanogos Cave National Monument, we are currently associating resource violations (such as touching formations, littering, and leaving tours) with visitation trends to reduce visitation impacts. At Nutty Putty Cave, visitation information helped convince the Utah State Trust Lands that better management practices are needed. Having visitation information is vital to creating valuable change for these two heavily used caves.
Graffiti Removal Project in Bloomington Cave, Utah
Jon Jasper, Resource Management Specialist, Timpanogos Cave National Monument
RR 3, Box 200, American Fork, UT 84003
Kyle Voyles, Physical Science Tech, Arizona State BLM Cave Cord.
Grand Canyon-Parashant N.M., 345 E. Riverside Dr., St. George, UT. 84790
Abstract
Kyle Voyles and Jon Jasper have long considered how the appreciation of Bloomington Cave outside of St. George, Utah would change, if all of the graffiti and trash was removed. Our thinking was if we could get community involved in restoring the cave, then interest and appreciation would increase to allow long-term maintenance and management of the cave.
During the winter and into spring of 2005, 7 weekends were spent removing the graffiti covering the walls of Bloomington Cave. The project, headed by Kyle Voyles (Parashant National Monument & St. George BLM) used Ray Keeler's sandblasting equipment and other techniques to thoroughly remove graffiti throughout the main trails of the cave. The project was a great success due to the efforts of 48 volunteers from Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California. Now that the project is completed, the BLM is looking into writing and implementing a comprehensive Cave Management Plan.
This presentation includes an 8 minute video documenting the project and the methods. You will be able to see the equipment in action sandblasting away the graffiti.
DIGGING: GUIDELINES FOR CAVERS AND RESOURCE MANAGERS
William K. Jones, Karst Waters Institute, PO Box 490, Charles Town, WV 25414
David C. Culver, American University
Philip C. Lucas, Virginia Speleological Survey
Abstract
Most cave entrances occur by natural “accidents” rather than as an intricate part of the formation of the cave itself and the vast majority of caves have no entrance enterable by man. In the geologic lifetime of a cave any number of entrances may have opened and closed through natural processes. A surprising number of caves in the US were discovered by some form of excavation or “digging” by cavers. It could be argued that pursuing obvious “digs” is the next logical step in the process of searching for and inventorying caves. A variety of excavation techniques are employed ranging from removing soil and rolling a few rocks out of the way to “rock shaving” using micro-blasting techniques to using heavy equipment such as a backhoe. Digging for new caves and the techniques used for the excavation must be compatible with the overall land use regulations for the specific area. The techniques used for digging on highly protected lands such as wilderness areas should cause minimal disturbance to the surface zone and within the cave. The creation of a new entrance may create negative impacts to the cave ecosystem and affect mineral growth by changing airflow patterns in the cave. Alterations to the surface zone immediately surrounding the new entrance may impact drainage, sedimentation, and energy inputs to the cave. We cannot protect a resource that we have not identified, but we don’t want to unnecessarily damage the resource in the process of discovery. In most cases, digging to search for a “new” cave or to reopen an old entrance is appropriate, but we must remain aware of possible environmental impacts and dig softly.
Chinese/American Cooperation in Cave Management and Study at Wanhua Cave, Hunan Province, China
Patricia Kambesis, Hoffman Environmental Research Institute, Western Kentucky University
Jiang Zhongcheng, Institute of Karst Geology, Guilin, China
Chris Groves, Andrea Croskrey, Johanna Kovarik, Hoffman Environmental Research Institute, Western Kentucky University
Abstract
The Hoffman Environmental Research Institute of Western Kentucky University, and the Karst Geology Institute of China , have cooperated for more than ten years in studies in the karst regions of China. In 2004, the Wanhua Show Cave Company requested assistance from the Karst Geology Institute of China to address some of their cave management concerns. These included delineating the recharge area of Wanhua Cave, exploring new passages, determining the relationship of caves adjacent Wanhua Cave and outlining the significance of cave features within the show cave. In this effort to aid Wanhua cave staff in the management of their cave, the Karst Geology Institute and Wanhua Cave Company provided transportation and logistical support and Hoffman Institute provided personnel to continue cave exploration and documentation, conduct dye tracing, geologic reconnaissance, and basin delineation. Two kilometers of the show cave were remapped and photo-documented. Two dye traces were conducted that established the relationship of Wanhua Cave to two other significant caves in the area. The dye traces, geologic and hydrologic reconnaissance helped establish the boundaries of the Wanhua Cave drainage basin. Hoffman Institute personnel worked with the Wanhua Show Cave staff to improve the content of their interpretive tours and to produce a new map. As a side benefit, Chinese media coverage of the project provided an opportunity for the people of Hunan to increase their awareness of various caves in their province.
VERY SMALL AND ECLECTIC CAVES: CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ISSUES
Ernst H. Kastning, Department of Geology, Radford University, Radford, Virginia 24142
ABSTRACT
Many caves throughout the world are small and unusual, in contrast to extensive cave systems developed by karst processes. Small and eclectic caves typically go unnoticed by most cavers, speleologists, and the general public at large. However, in many cases, these caves are geologically, historically, and archeologically significant. Many are pseudokarstic and have formed by interesting genetic processes. Non-traditional caves are typically studied by individuals who are particularly fascinated with them or who live far from larger, more “exciting” caves. There are hundreds of small caves that have histories proportionally larger than their size. Small and unusual caves are often located in highly populated areas and are frequented by the local population, often by children. Many have been environmentally stressed; graffiti and/or excavation and removal of materials from them are common problems. Moreover, in some places, lesser caves may be obliterated during construction projects. The best means of protection of small and eclectic caves is through stewardship and education. Management of these features presents unique challenges, as there is often a lack of local interest in preserving them. However, if their significance is demonstrated through educational and outreach activities, local stewardship may result.
THE MISSOURI CAVES AND KARST CONSERVANCY – 12 YEARS OF CAVE CONSERVATION IN MISSOURI
Jim Kaufmann, Resident Cave Ecologist, Missouri Department of Conservation,
Resource Science Division, P. O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180
Abstract
The Missouri Caves & Karst Conservancy, Inc. (MCKC) was founded in 1993 by a group of cavers with the intent of purchasing and preserving caves in Missouri. In the succeeding 12 years, MCKC has acquired one property and manages or co-manages four other properties. The primary focus of the Conservancy, however, has been conservation through management, education, and research. In support of this focus, MCKC has led or participated in several projects in partnership with various private, state, and federal groups. The Conservancy and the Missouri Department of Conservation have partnered for the construction of several modern angle-iron cave gates and the Missouri Cave Life Survey. Geographic Information System analysis of karst areas has been supported by a Conservation Technology Support Program (CTSP) grant from ESRI and HP. REI and the National Park Service have supported various MCKC cave restoration projects. MCKC has recently partnered with the Missouri Caves Association in applying for a specialty license plate in order to increase awareness of caves in Missouri and to raise funds for various projects. The Missouri Caves and Karst Conservancy and the Missouri Department of Conservation will be co-hosting the 2007 National Cave and Karst Management Symposium to be held in St. Louis, Missouri.
ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION OF STUART BAT CAVE, KICKAPOO CAVERN STATE PARK, TEXAS
Jim Kennedy, Bat Conservation International, Post Office Box 162603,
Austin, TX 78716-2603
Abstract
Stuart Bat Cave, formerly known as Green Cave, is a well-known but poorly studied Mexican free-tailed bat cave in west Texas. Populations were estimated at up to _ million. It was mined for guano until 1957 with a shaft dug into the back of the cave for easier guano extraction, but the change in airflow and microclimate caused almost total abandonment by the bats. Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) purchased the ranch in 1986 to create Kickapoo Cavern State Park. The author coordinated volunteers from the Texas Speleological Association (TSA) in capping the artificial entrance in December 2002, and began monitoring temperatures and humidity in the cave at that time. The situation was improving until TPWD decided to create a bat viewing area without consulting BCI or even their own biologists on the design. The worst part was a handicapped-accessible sidewalk across the mouth of the cave. Soon after construction was completed, consultation forced TPWD to agree that the platform in front of the cave had to be removed. Once again TSA volunteers mobilized, devoting 585 man-hours to breaking up and removing the thick reinforced concrete, and regrading and seeding the entrance slope. While still not perfect, the restored entrance is more bat-friendly and serves as a lesson on how not to create a watchable wildlife area. Populations seem to be rebuilding, but further observation is needed.
THE FORGOTTEN BAT CAVES: RECOGNIZING AND MANAGING BAT CAVES EVEN WHEN THERE ARE NO BATS
Jim Kennedy, Bat Conservation International, Post Office Box 162603,
Austin, TX 78716-2603
Abstract
The popular wisdom is that the most important bat caves have been identified and protected. However, those caves are only the ones where researchers have recently found bats. We are now learning that bats may have been displaced to those sites due to disturbance in their historically-preferred caves. Instead of thriving in a cave with optimal conditions, many colonies are now barely hanging on or declining in less-suitable sites. The preferred caves are usually abandoned due to uncontrolled visitation ("there are no bats using the cave, so there is no reason to stay out"), or have been modified through commercialization efforts, including saltpeter mining. If we identify these overlooked sites and determine why they are no longer being used, we can hopefully restore them as prime hibernacula. This allows more available habitat for bats, especially the endangered Indiana bat, where over 50% of the known population hibernates in only 8 sites.
THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE'S CAVE AND KARST
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
Ronal Kerbo, National Park Service, Geologic Resources Division, P.O. Box
25287, Denver, CO 80225-0287
Abstract
Considerable cave exploration, restoration, research and other speleological activities are conducted within parks. Although the NPS occasionally can accomplish small projects with its own employees, most of the work is accomplished by individuals and groups interested in increasing scientific knowledge of cave and karst systems. Such groups and individuals contribute the majority of cave and karst research and projects. Currently the National Park Service has national level agreements with the Cave Research Foundation, the National Speleological Society, and Bat Conservation International. Speleological projects and research are also coordinated through individuals associated with these groups as well as the Geological Society of America, the American Geological Institute, the USGS and the Karst Waters Institute. Without such partnerships, only a small fraction of projects and research conducted in caves and karst could be accomplished.
The various units administered by the NPS are a shared dream for all Americans, and by extrapolation, for all peoples of the world for all time. Without the continued involvement of volunteer groups we would not be able to implement a cave and karst program that will provide for the protection of natural processes in cave ecosystems; understand karst landscapes; conduct scientific studies about cave and karst resources; increase the Service’s scientific knowledge and broaden the understanding of its cave resources; provide accurate educational opportunities for a broad spectrum of park visitors to safely visit, study, and enjoy caves; and continue to ensure the sustainable use conservation, interpretation, and protection of cave and karst resources.
CAVE RESOURCE INVENTORIES: WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?
Johanna Kovarik and Patricia Kambesis, Hoffman Environmental Research Institute, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky, 42127
Abstract
Cave resources are defined as all of the secondary attributes and features, both natural and man-made that reside within the confines of the cave or cave system. Natural features include the biota, paleontology, mineralogy, speleothems and sediments. Man-made features can be of archeological, historic or cultural origin. In order to effectively manage, protect and conserve caves, cave systems, karst areas/ecosystems, and cave resources in general, it is important to have basic knowledge of the physical extent, nature and attributes of the system/area/resource. Resource inventories along with geographic data and photo documentation provide the baseline of information necessary to understand cave and karst resources and ecosystems. Resource inventories can be conducted graphically or as a dedicated list. The Hoffman Institute uses both types of inventory data to generate resource inventory maps of general features, hydrologic features, and archeological/cultural features. Project areas where resources inventories have been conducted include Coldwater Cave, Iowa, caves of Isla de Mona in Puerto Rico, and caves in the south-central Kentucky area. Synthesis of this information into maps, databases and Geographic Information Systems provides the framework from which to make sound and intelligent resource management decisions. Such baseline data and information is also a starting point for scientific research.
BACTERIA AS INDICATORS OF HUMAN IMPACT IN CAVES
Kathleen. H. Lavoie, Arts and Sciences, State University of New York College at Plattsburgh, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Diana E. Northup, Biology Department, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
Abstract
This project used select microbes as indicators of human impact in caves by cultures of areas with a range of visitation impacts. Human Indicator Bacteria are those that would not normally be present in a cave unless there has been substantial impact by humans in terms of presence, activities, or pollution. Preliminary study of Human Indicator Bacteria was undertaken in the 1990s in Lechuguilla Cave in which we compared low impact (alcoves, off-trail sites) with high human impact areas (camps, trade routes, rocks that humans slither over, urine dumps, drinking water sources). Enrichment culture procedures targeted high-temperature Bacillus sp., Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus sampled from these sites. Recently, subsequent work was done in Mammoth Cave, with additional study planned in Carlsbad Cavern. The studies demonstrated increased levels of Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and high-temperature Bacillus in areas with the greatest visitation levels in both wild caves and commercial caves. Some recovery was seen in areas with S. aureus and E. coli if the areas are given a rest from human visitation, giving time for the human-associated bacteria to die off. Survival of Human Indicator Bacteria under idealized lab conditions in a variety of cave soil types from Mammoth Cave showed that S. aureus died off within four weeks, while E. coli K survival varied with soil type, and even increased in numbers in some soils. Bacteria can be used as indicators of human impact in caves and as such, provide cave managers with an excellent tool to measure human impact.
How are we doing? Evaluation of Cave and Karst Programs
Kathleen H. Lavoie, Arts and Sciences, State University of New York
College at Plattsburgh, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Louise D. Hose, National Cave and Karst Research Institute
Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220
Abstract
A routine of evaluation and assessment of program success is a critical aspect of knowing if you have achieved your objectives, where to focus further attention and resources, and of demonstrating your success to administration and granting agencies. Evaluation may be in the form of a satisfaction survey with questions ranking responses using a Likert-scale, open-ended questions, or gap analyses. Gap analysis evaluates the gap between importance and satisfaction, and gives you the amount of attention each item needs. Focus groups provide another format for evaluation that is interactive. An external review includes preparation of a critical self-study, review of documents by an external review team, an on-site visit, and a final report. An external review was conducted in 2004 of the National Cave and Karst Research Institute.
CAVE FAUNA IN THE INTERSTATE 66, SOMERSET TO LONDON CORRIDOR
Julian J. Lewis and Salisa L. Lewis, Lewis & Associates LLC, Cave, Karst & Groundwater
Biological Consulting, 17903 State Road 60, Borden, IN 47106-8608
Abstract
A detailed cave faunal investigation was performed within the scope of a larger karst and geohazards study on the proposed corridor for interstate 66 in Pulaski and Laurel counties, Kentucky. The assessment included the five basic steps generally required in National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) technical studies. A total of 63 caves were visited revealing the presence of 114 taxa. Of the sites sampled, 29 of them were inhabited by globally rare species. The presence of 28 species of troglobites and stygobites was documented in the large cave system associated with Sinking Valley. This is the second largest assemblage of obligate subterranean species known in North America, second only to the Mammoth Cave System. A vulnerability rating using GIS mapping for karst areas within the study bands was developed: (1) low – no known caves or fauna; (2) moderate – cave present; (3) high – cave present with known fauna; (4) very high – cave present with globally rare species. In addition a cave cricket foraging area was buffered around all cave entrances and known or inferred passages.
Monitoring and Environmental Microclimate data obtained from studies of hibernacula sites within Caves in West Virginia
Mike Masterman, Extreme Endeavors, PO BOx 2093, Philippi WV 26416
Abstract
Extreme Endeavors and Consulting was contracted to perform environmental monitoring of hibernacula sights of endangered species of bats in Hellhole and Schoolhouse caves which are located in Pendleton County West Virginia. A system was exclusively developed by Extreme Endeavors to operate inside of a cave, extracting the most precise temperature and air pressure data ever seen from an underground environment, while providing the ability to correlate with a similar monitoring station located in the proximity of the entrance of the cave. The monitors within this system remained tethered to the surface, where autonomous power systems provided power and a connection to a communications link, allowing data to be downloaded throughout the year, simply by dialing over a modem.
A feature was designed for this system that allowed the user to set the sample rate of data from 1 minute to 24 hours. The sample rate of each module was set to a fine scale time intervals, a finer scale resolution than previously utilized in measurements taken from these caves. This resolution and extremely precise data has shown various anomalies that are occurring in this micro environment. The data from these caves will be presented, along with extensive computations that show the correlation of surface data to the data from within the cave. Details will be presented to show how mathematical analysis can be used to tell us more information about the world below.
An additional result of our study is the product of component failure causing us to perform further research into the surface potentials created around sink holes and caves. Data from this investigation will be presented and an analysis of our findings will be scrutinized
PROTECTING VIRGINIA’S CAVES AND KARST THROUGH THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT REVIEW PROCESS
Wil Orndorff, Karst Protection Coordinator
Joey Fagan, Karst Protection Specialist
Carol Zokaites, Karst Education Coordinator
Virginia Karst Program, Department of Conservation and Recreation, Natural Heritage Program, 7502 Lee Highway, Radford, VA 24141
Abstract
Within the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Natural Heritage Program maintains a Project Review Office, which screens a variety of proposed development projects for potential impacts to natural heritage resources. All projects involving state funds pass through this process, as do projects with potential wetland impacts, those subject to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and those submitted voluntarily or as required by local governments. Emphasis is placed on protection of natural heritage resources - occurrences of rare plants, animals, or natural communities. Caves designated as significant by the Virginia Cave Board, following the provisions of the Virginia Cave Protection Act of 1979, are treated as natural heritage resources for the purposes of project review. For screening purposes, natural heritage resources are represented as conservation sites - landscape areas where activities could impact one or more occurrences of natural heritage resources. Information on projects intersecting conservation sites is sent to appropriate staff experts. Projects intersecting conservation sites of significant caves are sent to both the Karst Program and the Virginia Speleological Survey, because the Natural Heritage Program does not maintain a database of cave entrance locations. The survey also provides information on additional caves and karst features not designated as significant, but potentially impacted by the project. This arrangement facilitates protection of caves without public ownership of cave locations. Seventy-two delineated conservation sites cover 151 of Virginia’s nearly 400 significant caves. Caves awaiting conservation site delineation are represented by 3km radius buffers with centers offset from entrances.
FACILITATING RESEARCH AT CARLSBAD CAVERNS NATIONAL PARK
Dale L. Pate, Supervisory Physical Scientist, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, 3225 National Parks Highway, Carlsbad, New Mexico 88221
Abstract
As a federal agency that manages millions of acres of public lands, the National Park Service has a fundamental purpose to conserve park resources and values while providing for the enjoyment of the people. Management of park resources has, in recent years, been more oriented towards making good, sound decisions based on valid scientific research. This presentation will discuss actions taken by Carlsbad Caverns National Park staff to promote and facilitate research in the park.
BAT GATES FOR LARGE COLONIES AND MATERNITY SITES
Roy Powers, RR 1 Box 153, Duffield, VA 24244-9630
Jim Kennedy, Bat Conservation International, Post Office Box 162603,
Austin, TX 78716-2603
Abstract
Bat gates have steadily evolved to provide increased security while becoming more ecologically transparent. Recently-developed modifications to the standard horizontal bat gate include cupola gates, flyover (or half) gates, bay window gates, window gates, chute gates, and combinations, such as a bay window with a chute. Gate location is critical, and the numbers of bats and timing of cave use are critical to the design. Engineering becomes more complicated with modifications, and novices should consult with experts before attempting to construct any bat gate. But almost any bat colony in any type of cave or mine can now be protected by a secure gate without negative impact to the cave ecosystem.
History as a Management Tool at Timpanogos Cave NM
Cami Pulham, Cultural Resource Specialist, Timpanogos Cave National Monument
RR 3 Box 200, American Fork, UT 84003
Abstract
History is a unique resource and is in need of proper documentation and management. Caves are often managed for their geological and biological values; historic significances can often be overlooked. At Timpanogos Cave National Monument, the knowledge of the early mining history led to the later declaration creating a monument with the mission to preserve the cave as well as its historic value. Proper historical documentation can be an effective management tool to guide future decisions that avoid past mistakes. At Timpanogos Cave National Monument, we are documenting the history through the recording of oral histories, maintaining museum archives, researching historic graffiti, establishing a photomonitoring program, and ensuring the integrity of historic landscapes. Increasing the knowledge of a cave’s history increases visitor appreciation.
POSTER:Developing an Undergraduate Level Karst Course Online: Objectives, Challenges, and Solutions
Carol Ramsey, 206 - 1501 Richmond Avenue, Victoria, British Columbia, CANADA V8R 4P7 sciurus46@yahoo.ca
Tim Stokes, Malaspina University-College/Terra Firma Geoscience Services, 1480 Sherwood Drive, Nanaimo, British Columbia, CANADA V9T 1G7 tstokes@island.net
Paul Griffiths, Cave Management Services/KarstCare, 544 Springbok Road, Campbell River, British Columbia, CANADA V9W 8A2 pgriff@island.net
Brent Lee. Online Development Team, Malaspina University-College, 900 Fifth Street, Naniamo BC CANADA V9R 5S5
Abstract
A new on-line education course, Karst: Systems, Landscapes and Processes, was developed during 2004-2005 at British Columbia&Mac226;s Malaspina University-College as part of the Geology Program. Undergraduate level students in their 2nd or 3rd of an Arts or Science Degree are the primary intended audience. Three broad objectives were used to develop the conceptual framework of the course. Firstly, it was intended to present karst in a global perspective while at the same time highlighting Canada&Mac226;s karst resources &Mac246; particularly the forested karst of British Columbia and Vancouver Island. A second objective was to take a broad approach to karst science, trying to demonstrate the interconnection of the wide range of disciplines that are required at some level to understand this science. Finally, it was intended to make the course material as interactive and graphics-rich as possible, using a variety of online learning activities, self tests and discussion projects. Each of the three objectives posed corresponding challenges in their development. For example, how do you develop local content when appropriate learning materials are lacking? How do you take a wide-ranging, introductory approach to karst without sacrificing depth? How do you give students some sense of what karst landscapes look and feel like in the field? Above all, how do you keep a student, not in a face-to-face class, interested and engaged?
POSTER: KARST RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: GROUNDWATER PROTESTION AND DEVELOPMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE KINGSTON-ROSENDALE AQUIFER SYSTEM; ULSTER COUNTY, N.Y.
Paul A. Rubin, HydroQuest, P.O. Box 387, Stone Ridge, NY 12484
Kurtis C. Burmeister, Univ. of the Pacific, Dept. of Geosciences, 3601 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95211
Mark Folsom, Northeastern Cave Conservancy, 2517 Lucas Tpk., High Falls, New York 12440 markf@netstep.net
Abstract
The Kingston-Rosendale karst aquifer system (KRKAS) comprises a unique combination of natural and manmade components that make it extremely vulnerable to permanent water quality degradation. Since the hydrologic complexities of this system remain largely unknown, it is imperative that this untapped resource be carefully managed. A thorough study of hydrologic susceptibility is required prior to urbanization of the recharge zone.
The KRKAS is characterized by a complex network of natural caves, sinkholes, sinking streams, and springs in strata exposed along the western margin of the Hudson Valley. The major karst-forming units in this sequence (including the Rondout, Manlius, Coeymans, and Onondaga formations) were strongly deformed during Appalachian orogenic events. In places, this deformation resulted in regional fracture and fault networks that contributed to the development of deep, strike-parallel, aquifers bounded by mixed carbonate/clastic and clastic units (e.g., Kalkberg, New Scotland, Esopus formations). Mining associated with the natural cement industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries further complicates the karst system in the Kingston-Rosendale area. These activities disrupted and unnaturally integrated pre-existing karst aquifers.
Currently, aquifer recharge areas, groundwater flow directions and discharge points, existing use, safe-yield, water quality, and contaminant threats in the KRKAS remain largely undefined. The need for watershed protection in the KRKAS was recently highlighted by its proposed addition to the New York State Open Space Conservation Plan. Preliminary mapping within the KRKAS is generating the foundation for a new GIS database. This GIS system integrates karst features, mines, quarries, geologic mapping, hydrologic basins, as well as the tracer testing, pumping, and field data necessary to provide a scientific rationale for karst aquifer protection under proposed development schemes. For example, our mapping clearly illustrates that a portion of the proposed 2,182 unit Kingston Landing project receives recharge from a 1 km2 catchment that drains directly into the KRKAS.
SOURCE AREA DELINEATION OF RUSSELL CAVE NATIONAL MONUMENT AND CHICKAMAUGA & CHATTANOOGA NATIONAL MILITARY PARKS
Brian D. Sakofsky, Center for Cave & Karst Studies, Department of Geography & Geology, Western Kentucky University
Nicholas Crawford Ph.D., Center for Cave & Karst Studies, Department of Geography & Geology, Western Kentucky University
Abstract
In an effort to better understand groundwater flow under two of its national parks, the National Park Service gave a grant to the Center for Cave & Karst Studies to conduct a source-area delineation for Lookout Mountain National Military Park and Russell Cave National Monument. Both sites have similar karst landscapes and geologic stratigraphy. Lookout Mountain is a synclinal mountain that lies within the Folded Appalachians. Its stratigraphy mimics that of the nearby Cumberland Plateau. The caves tend to be oriented along the strike and there are numerous vertical shafts where cave streams drop off resistant stratigraphic layers. Russell Cave National Park lies within Doran Cove, Alabama and Tennessee and has near-horizontal structure and Cumberland Plateau stratigraphy. Cave streams drop off the same resistant stratigraphic layers and tend to flow through caves that follow stress-relief fractures that parallel the valley walls.
Dye tracer tests in the vicinity of Russell Cave showed that the watershed for Russell Cave encompasses all of Doran Cove. Tracer tests atop Lookout Mountain indicate that cave streams are trapped by the synclinal structure of Lookout Mountain and flow along the strike. The cave streams take a stair-step pattern as they beach confining layers and descend through the Pennington, Bangor, and Monteagle Limestones. This hydrogeologic research has identified the major flow routes of the karst aquifers under Lookout Mountain and Doran Cove, and has also delimited the drainage basins (source areas) for the major cave streams and springs.
Continuing research is being funded by the National Park Service and the Center for Cave and Karst Studies.
ASSESSMENT OF ATRAZINE WITHIN A KARST LANDSCAPE IN ROUGH RIVER LAKE RESERVOIR, KENTUCKY
Scotty R. Sharp, Hoffman Environmental Research Institute, Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY 42101
ABSTRACT
Atrazine, a herbicide used in the production of no-till corn, is a growing concern to the quality of drinking water for many rural water suppliers. Western Kentucky University’s Hoffman Environmental Resource Institute along with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the University of Kentucky’s Cooperative Extension Service were awarded a grant by the United States Environmental Protection Agency to do an assessment of atrazine levels in the Rough River Lake watershed (Kentucky) which encompasses 142km2. The Rough River Lake reservoir has four water treatment plants that are responsible for serving three counties with their water needs. Roughly ninety percent of the landscape of Rough River is composed of karst, with numerous sinkholes, caves, and sinking streams. One water treatment plant, Hardin County Number One, gets its entire water supply from two major springs, both with a combined drainage area of 48km2. Grab and stratified samples were collected from eighteen locations within the study area. Sampling rounds were conducted on a fourteen-day cycle during the growing season and twenty-eight day cycle during the fall and winter months. Results showed that five locations had over 3 ppb (parts per billion), the Environment Protection Agency’s maximum contamination level for atrazine, for at least two sampling rounds. Two sites, Highway 259 and Walters Creek, recorded levels over 10 ppb. Sampling will continue through 2006 in the Rough River Watershed.
HISTORY OF RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: CONFLICT AND RESOLUTION, HOWES CAVE, NY
Steven J. Stokowski, Stone Products Consultants, 1058 Sodom Road, Building 2,
Westport, Mass. 02790
Paul A. Rubin, Howe Caverns, Inc., 255 Discovery Drive
Howes Cave, NY 12092
Benson P. Guenther, Cobleskill Stone Products, Inc., Cave House Museum of Mining & Geology, P.O. Box 700, Howes Cave, NY 12092
Abstract
Howes Cave, the Howes Cave Quarry, Howe Caverns, Secret Caverns, and the McFails Cave Preserve of the National Speleological Society are at the center of a dramatic saga that illustrates the technical, economic, and social conflict between different perspectives of natural resource utilization. The local caves and their host, the limestone resources, are valuable as commercial tourist caves, non-commercial recreational caves, raw materials for the manufacture of natural and Portland cement, stone for construction aggregate, groundwater, and education. The most recent significant event in the saga occurred in 2002 when Cobleskill Stone Products started a redevelopment plan based upon a 1993 Masters Thesis at RPI by Clemens McGiver. The $7.4 million project is unique because it is the first in the USA that attempts to harmonize the interests of the aggregates industry, the commercial cave businesses, academia, and the community, including cavers. A new surface quarry is being opened and existing industrial structures are being renovated for new uses. The long derelict, but historic Cave House hotel at the entrance to the Howes Cave Quarry is being restored to create a national museum of mining and geology, while the historic and supposed collapsed Howes Cave is being reopened for tours. The project and associated projects are underway to define the limestone resources that could be mined, while protecting groundwater, wild cave, and commercial cave resources from both the potential effects of new mining and the current effects of conflicting agricultural, commercial, and residential land use.
HAWAIIAN CAVE BIOLOGY: STATUS OF CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT
Fred D. Stone, Ph.D., B.P. Bishop Museum, Hawaii Cave Conservation Task Force,
Cave Conservancy of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI
Frank G. Howarth, Ph.D., B.P. Bishop Museum, Honolulu, HI
Abstract
Caves on the main Hawaiian Islands support diverse communities of obligate cave-adapted species. First discovered in 1971, currently over 75 species of troglobites are recognized, including planthoppers, crickets, moths, beetles, spiders, pseudoscorpions, millipedes, centipedes, isopods, and others, with new species still being discovered. Efforts to protect these species began soon after their discovery, and are on-going. Systematic research using morphology, behavior, and molecular techniques is revealing much greater diversity among cave populations than assumed. Within some groups, each cave supports one or more distinct populations or species differing in form, behavior, and DNA from neighboring cave populations. Identification of plant roots in caves and management of the surface environment is essential for habitat protection, including removal of alien ungulates and restoration of native vegetation where needed. Monitoring is used to determine long-term trends of cave populations. Control of threats includes prevention of pollution by garbage, sewage and chemical contamination. The Hawaii State Cave Protection law was developed to extend these protections to all caves statewide. Many significant caves occur in protected areas including national parks, national wildlife reserves, military reserves, Hawaii Natural Area Reserves, Nature Conservancy reserves, and other private protected land. Cave resource inventories and development of management plans with the necessary monitoring is on-going in many of these protected areas. Finally, Hawaiian cave species facing imminent threat of extinction have been listed as endangered species, with delineation of critical habitats and establishment of protected areas. Currently, protection of cave species is being extended through increased protected areas belonging to the Cave Conservancy of Hawaii and other private, State and Federally protected lands.
LAVA CAVE MANAGEMENT IN HAWAI’I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Fred D. Stone, Ph.D.,
B.P. Bishop Museum,
Honolulu, HI
Frank G. Howarth, Ph.D.,
B.P. Bishop Museum,
Honolulu, HI
Jadelyn Moniz Nakamura, Ph.D.,
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park,
Volcano, HI
Abstract
Lava tubes and other types of caves are a major feature of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HAVO). These caves include many important geological, mineralogical, paleontological, archeological, biological, cultural, recreational and other resources. Although caves were known and used by Hawaiians for hundreds of years, and by more recent Island residents and visitors since they began exploring Mauna Loa and Kilauea Volcanoes, systematic inventories only began within the last 30 years. Through funding from NPS, the Park conducted a resource inventory of selected caves in 1990-91 by an integrated team of professionals consisting of an archeologist, biologist, geographer and HAVO Cave Specialist. This was followed by the first HAVO Cave Management Plan in 1990. Between 1994 and 1995 park resource specialists implemented a monitoring program consisting of cave registers and photo points in a limited number of caves. In 1995 HAVO hired its first permanent cave specialist, and the program was managed by the Cultural Resource Manager. Additional cave inventories were conducted between 1998 and 2000 when the program protocols were revised. The monitoring program waned until 2004 when it was re-instituted; however the cave inventory program has remained active. Currently HAVO cave management staff continue with an active program of cave inventory, mapping, and monitoring. Current and future projects for this program includes inventory of the new Kahuku lands recently added to the park, continued archeological and biological surveys in the older section of the park, and the development of a Pacific Islands Network-wide monitoring program for all parks within the Pacific Islands network region that have caves.
McFAIL’S CAVE, NSS CAVE OWNERSHIP AND INTERACTIVE CAVE MANAGEMENT
Fred D. Stone, Ph.D., Hawaii Community College, Hilo, HI 96760
Abstract
At the 1965 NSS Convention in Indiana, the Board of Governors voted to accept ownership of the first NSS cave property, McFail’s Cave in New York State. To do so, they had to change a long-standing NSS policy of non-ownership of caves. However, at that time, NSS had actually owned McFail’s Cave for over a year. This talk will cover the series of events, some serendipitous and some planned, that led to the purchase of McFail’s Cave and it’s role in changing NSS cave ownership policy and the development of a management strategy, through establishment of the McFail’s Committee, as a successful model of interactive cave management.
CORRELATING GEOPHYSICS AND CAVE CARTOGRAPHY FOR GREATER ACCURACY AND APPLICATION
Jeremy A. Tallent, Nicholas C. Crawford, and Patrica Kambesis, Center for Cave and Karst Studies, Department of Geography and Geology, Western Kentucky University,
1 Big Red Way, Bowling Green, KY 42101
Abstract
The accuracy of cave cartography will inherently be compromised due to factors associated with cave survey. A few of the more common of these error producing factors include but are not limited to: subsurface conditions causing errors, magnetic drift created from head lamps, lighting products and other electromagnetic emitting devices, and survey instrument miscalibration. These errors are usually slight, but as the length of the cave increases, so does the cumulative effects of these errors.
The paper demonstrates how the correlation of geophysics and geographical information systems can be combined to detect and eliminate these errors for a significantly higher level of accuracy when drafting surface to subsurface cartographic representations of a project area. The paper also demonstrates these techniques for improving this accuracy through a variety of means. Initially, a brief description of subsurface survey techniques and associated errors are discussed. Geophysical equipment and data interpretation techniques for the respective equipment are examined. Geophysical equipment discussed includes Microgravity, Electrical Resistivity, Cave Radio, and others. Next, methods for integrating this geophysical data into GIS programs including ArcGIS 9 are shown. Finally, multiple case studies are presented to demonstrate how these techniques are being used for better surface to subsurface cartographic correlation.
EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH ON THE USE OF THERMOGRAPHY TO LOCATE HEAT SIGNATURES FROM CAVES
Jim Thompson, 1 Jim Thompson Way, 621 S.W. Alder Street, Blackwell, MO 63626
Murray Marvin, Portland, Oregon 97205
Abstract
Thermal differences between cave entrances and the surrounding landscape have long been known. Cavers traditionally ridge walked in cave-likely temperate regions in cold mid-winter with a falling barometer in order to visually detect ‘fog-plumes’ of escaping subterranean air from crevices and unknown earth openings. We are experimenting with a high-technology solution to this cave detection method by applying infrared thermography to the surface of the earth. Early trials during the spring of 2005 with a Therma CAMTM B20 HSV infrared camera resulted in promising results in initial trials in New Mexico and West Virginia. Further research is underway at Fisher Cave, Franklin County, Missouri.
This research began by documenting temperatures of cave openings and surrounding substrates. Atmospheric, ambient conditions (temperature, relative humidity, specific humidity and dew point) were recorded inside the cave, at the entrance and at intervals up to 183 meters. Normal images were contrasted with thermograms which showed full temperature gradients of the openings. At 118 meters, the opening could no longer be seen with the naked eye. The thermograms showed distinct images of cave openings. Trials continued to 388 meters. At 388 meters, the thermograms showed signatures which could be that of a cave entrance. The initial results indicate that individual cave entrances have separate and unique temperature gradients. Thus, individual cave thermograms are a “fingerprint” or signature of that cave. Once we have established standardized procedures, thermograms may become an important tool for cave location and exploration.
This work is in the experimental stages. The evidence of its success is presented in the matched infrared/visual images which follow.
Strategies for accessing and monitoring high-flow, submerged cave systems in Central Florida
Terrence N. Tysall, Amy L. Giannotti, and Rima B. Franklin , The Cambrian Foundation
1234 East Concord Street, Suite A, Orlando, FL 32803
Additional affiliation for Terrence Tysall:
Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences
Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
Abstract:
Ecosystems of underwater caves often receive little study, due to the fact that they are not amenable to ordinary environmental sampling techniques and protocols. While many cave systems in North Florida are well-studied, and their biodiversity well-documented, the submerged caves in central Florida are not well understood due to the narrow conduits and the high-flow associated with these systems. Technical divers from the Cambrian Foundation, a 501c3, based in Orlando, Florida, have recently developed several new approaches for collecting data in these systems which are impenetrable to recreational divers. Developing techniques for reliably sampling these habitats is challenging, and must consider issues such as sample container buoyancy, sterile technique, confined space, gear configuration (i.e. no-mount diving), and working in a submerged cave environment, as well as the safety issues and conservation practices that are important in this type of field work. In addition, we will address the importance of landowner/agency/researcher relations and access to these difficult systems. The goal of this presentation is to share these strategies with others working in similar systems that are difficult to access. Development of these procedures is particularly important as it has permitted us to develop long-term monitoring programs to study these habitats, which have often been neglected due to logistical constraints.
DEVELOPING A 3D MODEL IN GIS TO ASSESS THE POTENTIAL EXTENT OF THE JEWEL CAVE SYSTEM: A TOOL FOR MANAGING THE UNKNOWN
Michael E. Wiles, Jewel Cave National Monument, 11149 US Highway 16,
Custer, SD 57730
Abstract
Currently, over 50 miles (40 %) of the known cave system is outside park boundaries, and barometric airflow studies indicate that as much as 97% remains to be discovered. A first approximation of the maximum extent of humanly passable cave passages has been modeled in three dimensions, based on volume estimates from barometric air flow, constraints presented by geologic contacts, the water table, and known structural features. These relationships have been quantified and analyzed using structural and potentiometric contours from the U.S. Geological Survey Black Hills Hydrologic Study, surface and subsurface mapping by the National Park Service, and other sources. The model serves as an important management tool for an enormous resource that requires proactive measures to ensure its continued protection.
MAPPING SURFACE GEOLOGY TO PROTECT THE KARST RESOURCES OF THE JEWEL CAVE SYSTEM
Michael E. Wiles, Jewel Cave National Monument, 11149 US Highway 16,
Custer, SD 57730
Abstract
Jewel Cave is a vast cave system in the Mississippian Madison Formation in the southern Black Hills of South Dakota. It is a resource that is still being discovered. Strong barometric winds in the cave have demonstrated that the 133 miles presently known represent only about 3% of the total volume. Thus, most of the cave system is yet to be found.
Maps of cave passages overlain by detailed surface geologic maps have demonstrated a spatial relationship between cave passages and geologic contacts, providing a general indication of where undiscovered passages are likely to exist.
They have also shown that hydrologic connections are directly related to the surface exposure of the two permeable subunits in the lower part of the overlying Minnelusa Formation. These exposures constitute zones of infiltration which, as a management tool, represent zones of vulnerability – areas where the cave is susceptible to impacts from surface activities via hydrologic connections.
The resulting maps have been used as a predictive tool to anticipate where the undiscovered portions of the cave might be found. This information has already been used to help prioritize efforts to protect the known and unknown portions of the cave system via a mineral withdrawal and a land exchange.
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