About TCBG

Caves, and the creatures which inhabit them, are the main focus of our grotto!

We are a non-profit organization composed of people actively involved in all types of cave-related projects. These projects include cave conservation, survey, exploration, rescue and a variety of scientific projects. The TCB Grotto is affiliated with the National Speleological Society since 1961 and other cave-related associations worldwide.

Cave Conservation

The TCB Grotto is involved in a variety of cleanup and conservation projects. Our annual spring cleanup is usually held at various local caves which might need a trash pickup at least once a year. Members also volunteer their time with various other caving organizations, such as SCCi, involving conservation-minded projects.

Landowner Relations

Landowners play an important role in caves and cave projects. Without good relations with landowners, no one would be able to enter any caves! A common theme heard among cavers is "Caving is a privilege, not a right." This means that no one should enter a cave without permission from the landowner. Several caves are now closed due to that privilege being misused. Landowners are informed of Tennessee cave laws which prohibit any and all types of vandalism and which protect a landowner's liability should an accident occur in a cave. All TCB members are required to sign a liability waiver before entering a cave on a grotto-sponsored trip. Also, the TCB Grotto's vast storehouse of geological and hydrological resources are available at the landowner's request.

Cave Rescue

The TCB Grotto has a cave rescue team trained through the National Cave Rescue Seminar which is conducted yearly through the National Speleological Society. Our cave rescue team is trained in all aspects of cave rescue including high angle rescue.

Cave Survey

Surveying is one way to get to know a cave very well. There are all types of survey trips ocurring on an ongoing basis, from horizontal trips to wet, vertical caves. Help is always appreciated due to the lengthy nature of cave surveying.

Cave Trips

The TCB Grotto has a wide variety of caving trips. Weekend trips are planned to caves in Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia - just ask about them!

Join Us!

The best the way to learn about caving is to go with cavers, learning through their knowledge and experience of the cave environment. Meetings are held the 1st Monday of each month. Dues for the TCB Grotto are $12 a year, which include a monthly newsletter, access to the e-mail list server, cave gear rental, and more.

Hope to see you soon!