Cave Management
Division
Cave and
Karst Acquisition Committee
Cave Conservancies
Committee
Contemporary
Cave Use Study Committee
Land Owner Relations
Committee
NSS Cave Preserves
Committee
Conservation Division
Conservation Committee
Conservation
Volunteer Coordinator
Underground
Wilderness
Conservation Grants
Fauna Protection
Resource
Preservation
Federal Liaison
Conservation Task
Forces
Vandalism
Deterrence Reward Commission
Cave
Conservation and Management Section
Education Division
Educational
Opportunities Committee
Environmental
Education Committee
Project Underground
National Cave Rescue
Commission
Safety and Techniques
Committee
Television Video
Production Committee
NSS Convention Division
Convention
Development Committee
1997 NSS Convention
1998 NSS Convention
1999 NSS Convention
2000 NSS Convention
Convention
Registration Software Committee
Congress of Grottos
Junior Speleological
Society
Salon Coordinator
Attachment C-1: Management Plan for the Tytoona Cave Preserve
Attachment C-2: Reports from Cave Preserve Committees
Douglas Medville
11762 Indian Ridge Rd.
Reston, VA 20191
(703) 860-0134
medville@patriot.net
There are 21 Committees and Commissions in the Department of the Administrative Vice President. In this report, I provide the name, address, phone number (home phone, unless otherwise indicated), and e-mail address of the Chair of each organizational entity, followed by the report submitted by that person. Reports are in the P3 (Progress, Plans, Problems) format. The information provided has been supplied by the Committee and Subcommittee Chairs although I have made some spelling, formatting, and minor editorial adjustments.
Where I feel it is useful to do so, AVP comments are provided in italics, following the report’s text. Here, I may add information or provide some context-setting remarks.
AVP Department News
Cooperative Agreement with Mammoth Cave National Park
In late November, we submitted a proposal to Mammoth Cave National Park for a Cooperative Agreement (CA) between MCNP and the NSS under which the NSS would carry out restoration activities in MCNP over a five year period and under which MCNP would reimburse $80,000 in volunteer expenses for this time period. Following several phone conversations with Bob Ward, Cultural Resources Specialist at MCNP, some wording revisions were made to the proposal and the budget was revised. A final proposal was sent to MCNP on January 31, 1998. Upon approval of the proposal by MCNP, the Park will prepare a Cooperative Agreement for our approval. Upon receipt of the CA, I will submit it to the BOG for discussion and a vote.
Wilderness Bolting
On November 10, 1997, Dave Lester represented the NSS at a U.S. Forest Service Discussion Meeting on rock bolting in Forest Service Wilderness Areas. This meeting, attended by representatives of several agencies, recreational interests, and conservation groups, was intended to discuss issues involving bolting in Wilderness areas, in light of a prior decision by the Office of General Counsel that no anchors were permissible in wilderness areas. It was agreed that a sport climbing approach, where there are multiple climbing routes in a small area, did not belong in a wilderness area. Lester made the points that cavers use fixed anchors as a means to an end (we don’t place bolts for the sport of it), that bolts are sometimes needed to safely rig a gave, and that bolting facilitates exploration which in turn facilitates understanding and recording the resources in a cave.
The Forest is leaning toward a "prohibited unless allowed by exception" approach with regulations being written to this effect while the discussion group felt that anchors are acceptable in limited number and that policy guidelines rather than more regulations should be issued.
More information about bolting in caves is found in the last paragraph under "progress" in the Conservation Committee Chairman’s report.
Tytoona Cave Purchased
On December 23, 1997, Janet Thorne and Doug Medville met in Pittsburgh with Paul Weigeman, Vice President of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, and signed the deed and other papers transferring the 6.8 acre property containing Tytoona Cave in Pennsylvania to the NSS. Tytoona is the NSS’ tenth Cave Preserve and its first in Pennsylvania. The cave will be managed by a Management Committee drawn from the same group of central and western Pennsylvania cavers that has been managing the property for WPC for the past eight years (i.e., Garrett Czmor, Derek Flaig, et. al.).
The Management Plan for this Cave Preserve is given in Attachment C-1.
Caving User Fees
On January 23, 1998, the NSS Ad Hoc Cave Fee Committee, headed by Ray Keeler submitted a proposal to the U.S. Forest Service Region III for a new Southwestern Caves CTF to provide the USFS with a minimum of $100,000 per year of volunteer expertise and possible money contributions to help accomplish the cave management and conservation goals of the Forest Service in Arizona and New Mexico. The services offered under this CTF would be in lieu of the Cave Fee Demonstration Program being proposed by the Forest Service for the Lincoln and Coronando National Forests.
In a letter dated February 10, 1998, Lincoln National Forest Supervisor wrote that "the Supervisors of the Coronando and Lincoln National Forests have decided to not implement the (cave fee) project at this time. Instead, we have elected to enter into a Cooperative Agreement with the National Speleological Society, based on their proposal for increased volunteerism and participation in the Forest Service cave program on the part of the NSS."
This is welcome news and we hope, will form a basis for continued cooperative efforts with these National Forests in lieu of cave user fees.
Mike Hood (Chairman)
23 Wells Ave.
Dayton, OH 45431-1420
(513) 252-2978
mhcaver@aol.com
Plans
I'm proposing a new committee be formed to compile and maintain data on closed caves around the country. This committee would coordinate with various organizations who maintain closed cave lists in an effort to build a central database. The committee would not take over the maintenance of these lists, but would serve as a central point for cavers to use to inquire on the status of closed or limited access caves. In a nutshell, the committee would simply keep a centralized list of those lists that are already being built and maintained by grottos, regions, etc.
Progress
Pending BOG approval of the creation of this committee, notices have appeared in the Cavers Digest, alt.caving, and the NSS News. To date, two individuals have expressed an interest in chairing this committee.
Problems
No major problems directly affecting me. All committees are functioning and active. Two individuals expressed some concern that sensitive cave locations would be given with the closed cave lists. They were assured that no locations would be given or that the committee would take over control of maintaining the various lists.
AVP Note: I support the formation of this Committee and will have a motion on the Agenda to this effect.
Ray Keeler
22354 N. 68th Drive
Glendale AZ 85310-5239
(602) 561-2917
rkeeler@pcslink.com
Progress
There have been three sets of activity since the November 1997 BOG meeting. These are:
1. Tytoona Cave Preserve, Penn: Completion of the Tytoona Cave purchase was carried out on December 22, 1997 by Doug Medville and Janet Thorne. It is now an NSS property
2. White Chief Cave, Calif: The BOG voted to donate up to$5,000 from the Save the Caves Restricted Fund to help Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park purchase the 20 plus acre parcel and integrate it into the National Park System (11/97 BOG meeting). Later in November, I was notified by Joel Despain, cave specialist for the Park, that negotiation for the White Chief parcel had been completed and that the NSS donation, while appreciated, would not be necessary.
3. Sullivan Cave, Ind: The Indiana Karst Conservancy (IKC) would like to purchase the primary entrance to Sullivan Cave, third longest (10+ miles) in Indiana. The current owner has agreed to a price of about $65,000. The IKC has requested the NSS’ help. A motion will be on the agenda to this effect, requesting that the NSS donate up to $5,000 from the Cave Acquisition Restricted Fund to help in that purchase. This fund’s guidelines (Act 18-367, part B) were modified in 1997 and this donation is in accordance with the new parameters.
Plans
Continue to work with the IKC in supporting the Sullivan Cave acquisition. Seek other opportunities for cave acquisitions; either directly by the NSS or by providing support to NSS Conservancies, Internal Organizations, and Institutional Members.
Problems
None at present.
John M. Wilson (Chairman)
9504 Lakewater Ct.
Richmond, VA 23229-6010
(540)568-2989 (work)
wilso3jm@jmu.edu
Plans
The plans remain the same as in the previous AVP report:
Contact all known cave and cave related conservancies in the US to inform them of NSS services to cave conservancies, encourage them to become conservancies of the NSS, institutional members or both;
Develop a Web page for the committee with links to all NSS cave conservancies with Web sites in order to improve access to information about cave conservancies;
Sponsor a conference for cave conservancies and land trusts in connection with the 1998 NSS convention;
Clarify the mission of the Cave Conservancy Committee.
Progress
The Southeastern Cave Conservancy has become an institutional member of the NSS.
Bill Putnam reports that he has asked the convention organizers for a meeting place and time slot for a cave conservancies meeting at the 1998 convention. One of the SCCI Directors will handle the arrangements and will work with him on the details. They are looking at a 1 to 2 hour meeting during the week, and/or a Friday/Saturday mini-conference depending on the level of interest among the conservancies.
I subscribe to the listserver <landtrust@indiana.edu> which has an incredible amount of information about land trust activities. The management of land trusts has a lot of facets and the understanding of some of these components could be helpful to cave managers.
Problems
Josh Abdullah agreed to include information about the NSS cave conservancies and NSS affiliation information on the NSS Web Site. The information was sent to him some time ago. As of this report it is not included in the NSS Web site. I have not received a reply from Josh, but Tom Rea did have a reasonable explanation about the problem.
Reports from NSS Cave Conservancies and Institutional Members of the NSS that are Cave Conservancies
Southeastern Cave Conservancy
In 1997 the Southeastern Cave Conservancy became an institutional member of the NSS. The Conservancy is sponsoring a gathering of cave conservancies at the 1998 NSS Convention and will be hosting the National Cave Management Symposium in October of 1999. Membership in the SCCI exceeded 400 and continues to grow. The purchases of the Fricks Cave, Fox Mountain, and Horse Skull Cave properties added over 400 acres and 13 caves to the Conservancy's holdings. Leases on Logsdon Cave, Gourdneck Cave, South Pittsburg Pit, and Fern Cave added another 121 acres and 4 caves, bringing total holdings to just over 661 acres and more than 20 caves. The Kennamer Cave loan sponsored by Virginia Karstlands has been repaid, leaving an outstanding debt of about $191,000 which is being paid in installments over 4 years. Acquisitions in progress are primarily leases and small purchases, with a couple of donations possible. We expect to grow to 500 members and holdings of more than 30 caves in 1998.
Bill Putnam, Chairman
Butler Cave Conservation Society
BCCS continues to send its newsletter and I attended its last annual meeting.
Indiana Karst Conservancy
IKC continues to send its "IKC Update" its quarterly newsletter. Its most recent issue reported on the possibility of acquiring Sullivan Cave; third longest in Indiana.
Keith Dunlap reports the IKC newsletter has served as our primary means of communication with the NSS committees as it pretty well covers the various activities the IKC members are working on. He writes: "As you have probably seen in the past, the IKC is a little broader organization than most of the other cave conservancies, focusing more on state-wide environmental issues that affect karst. We also work with many federal, state, and local government agencies and other private conservation organizations to protect Indiana caves and karst."
"Like the other cave conservancies, we manage a number of privately owned caves through lease agreements. We are also currently working on a couple of land acquisitions deals. One would be a transfer of one of the largest springs in the state currently owned by The Nature Conservancy (also probably a conservation easement owned by TNC on another area). The other tract of land we are pursuing is an outright purchase for Sullivan Cave. The IKC and Central Indiana Grotto have been involved in the management of this cave for approximately ten years and when it came available for sale in September, two IKC members were able to negotiate a purchase agreement to secure it temporarily for an IKC repurchase. We are currently working on our fund raising activities. We have already submitted a "news note" to the NSS News which will be in the March (conservation) issue. We have also communicated with Doug Medville and Ray Keeler on this and there is to be a motion on March BOG agenda for some funding out of the NSS Cave Acquisition fund. I hope you will support and coordinate with Doug and Ray on this grant proposal so that the NSS can demonstrate it's support for land acquisition activities of its affiliated conservancies. Sullivan Cave needs your help now!"
The Perkins Cave Conservation and Management Society (PerCCAMS)
Tom Rohr led, organized, and produced the first and only map of Perkins Cave. He has recently agreed to help revise and improve the Perkins Cave map. This project may result in accomplishing a long term goal of getting an improved map of the cave without having a significant negative impact on the cave.
Texas Cave Management Association
The TCMA is alive and well- not thriving, but poised on the brink of some opportunities, I believe. We’re a small 501(c)(3) that needs more volunteers and dough; not necessarily in that order. We own three caves: Whirlpool and Lost Oasis in Austin and Robber Baron’s in San Antonio. We have management contracts on about a dozen others around the state, some in real estate developments and others on University of Texas lands.
Mid-Atlantic Karst Conservancy
The Mid-Atlantic Karst Conservancy was officially formed in November of 1997. We have not yet joined the NSS, but plan to do so once we have raised enough money to do the incorporation stuff. I am the Chairperson and Mark Lancaster of the Huntingdon County Cave Hunters is the Vice Chairperson. Secretary is Andrea Dieffenbaugher of the Ohio Cavers and Climbers Club and Treasurer is Paul Damon, Jr. of Loyalhanna Grotto. We have cavers from four grottos on our 11-member board (Pittsburgh Grotto is also involved). Our web site is http://www.karst.org.
We originally have some projects we are working on in Western Pennsylvania, but hope eventually to branch out in Ohio, northern West Virginia, and other parts of Pennsylvania, and anywhere we are needed. We are incorporating in Pennsylvania as a non-profit organization and hope to be able to buy and manage caves. Our bylaws are based on SCCI, which I think is a well run, very active organization. However, I don’t think initially we will seek to buy as many caves as they are doing now- that takes years of work.
Kim Metzgar, Loyalhanna Grotto
Garrett Czmor (Chairman)
Star Route Box 24
Huntingdon, PA 16652
(814) 643-3067
gccaver@vicon.net
Plans
The current plan is to continue the goals set forth in the previous plan. In addition, I have expanded some of those goals to include the following: (Please note that numbers correspond to each other throughout this report).
1) Continue to supply current and active CCUS participants with materials as needed. Be of assistance to help others within the CCUS program.
2) To encourage others that show an interest in becoming a CCUS participant.
3) Not to encourage putting registers in every cave within the United States but rather only significant sites that show results (i.e., caves with high visitation, caves with vandal problems, caves under other studies, or use as a management tool, etc).
4) To get CCUS participants to return data on a schedule basis; so as not to slow down the compilation process.
5) Encourage more CCUS participants to use the CCUS software as a way of returning book data.
6) Try to keep costs down by using a method of recyling used books with blank pages.
7) Create in the future an internet web site.
8) Create a CCUS logo.
9) Keep CCUS data separate by calendar year and cave status (ie, gated/restrictive caves vs. open/non restrictive).
10) Print a new CCUS manual (and without typos) and reprint register book pages as needed.
11) Have all the 1997 CCUS data compiled into a print out report.
Progress
1) This is being done.
2) Information is being made available to those that now request it.
3) This was already stated in the current CCUS manual and will also be encouraged in any future printing.
4) Participants slow to respond have been reminded of the deadline to send data in.
5) This is mentioned in the CCUS manual and will be further encouraged to those that either own or have access to a computer. It is not a condition to own a computer in order to be part of the CCUS.
6) CCUS supplies for the most part is still available. Book recycling has not been attempted yet.
7) This will happen when time and resources become available.
8) A nice drawing exists on the cover of the CCUS manual. This drawing might be used as a possibility for logo means. Plans are still tentative.
9) This is explained in the current CCUS manual. We will soon find out if others followed the guidelines.
10) New printing of the CCUS manual will take place when the present supply is exhausted. This manual has been accepted well and supplies are getting low.
11) Although, the deadline (Feb) is soon approaching, not many within the program have sent in the data for compilation. The fact that it is coming in but slow, is progress to some degree.
Problems
4) & 11) Typical with most cavers, data (either in book form or disk) is being returned at a snail pace and sporadic. This in turn slows down the total compilation and report on my end. Another problem is that many within the project didn't get started early in the calendar year. The results may have little effect on most of the data except in the case of visitation numbers which may vary to when register books were placed and closed out for the year. At any rate, I should have the 1997 tabulation ready sometime in 1998.
5) It's interesting that supposedly 40% to 50% of American households have computers but yet few cavers either have not or are not willing to use the software. I expect (and hope) that this will change in the very near future. Using the software saves many of us a lot of work not to mention postage fee. The computer-age is really a benefit to everyone.
6) This option while time consuming may be beneficial with keeping costs down until book supplies run out. At any rate, I will give it a try until reprinting is needed.
9) Some data coming in reflects mixed information from previous years (getting some 1994 data just now!). I want to keep data separate by calendar year as a better way to see trends and comparison with the past. Current data is a better way and tool to see problems associated with present cave usage. Past data incorporated into trends can show generalities of how caving attitudes are changing. A better study of trends should involve only those caves that have been in the CCUS project consistently over many years.
Bill Thoman (Chairman)
4905 Ralph Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45328-3801
(513) 251-7357
speleo@juno.com
Progress
Work has begun on a flyer for land owner relations. I’ll continue to work on it as time permits. Several grottoes have created committees for land owner relations. This will enable the message to get stated more often on a local level where it can do the most good.
Plans
Continue working on a land owner relations flyer.
Problems
None at present.
Gary Bush (Chairman)
2630 Stonegate Dr.
Jacksonville, FL 32223-0702
(904) 268-7638
gbush@mailhub.southeast.net
Section I General
The Preserve Managers reports I've received are attached for the record as Attachment C-2. I've also summarized the status of each report in Section II of this report.
Plans
I will schedule a Preserve Manager's meeting at the NSS Convention in Sewanee, TN this summer. Last summer's meeting didn't occur, as only two managers were at Convention and their schedules didn't allow a meeting.
Progress
The purchase of Tytoona Cave has been completed, resulting in the 10th NSS Cave Preserve. Garrett Czmor heads the Management Committee.
I did attend the Land Trust Alliance Rally in Savannah, GA last September 27 - 30th. My focus on sessions concerned mainly Conservation Easements, Fundraising, and Environment Liability avoidance. A detailed report will be submitted separately. I will be donating the Registration Fees to the Society, as I considered the event personally rewarding, very interesting, and fun!
Problems
The Preserves all are reported to be in good condition. The Bauman lawsuit in New York is currently dormant (and hopefully history).
Section II Property Status
McFails Cave (NY): 7 trips, totaling 28 cavers, visited the cave this Winter. Two separate studies are underway in the cave. The Halls Hole gate is slated for replacement this Spring.
Shelta Cave (Ala): No Report
John Guilday Cave Preserve (WVa): Part of the property may be taken by the Highway Department, as part of a widening of Hwy. 220. Dave West has met with the representative of the Highway Dept. for details. Maps and plans are forthcoming. We would be reimbursed for any land acquired.
Kingston Saltpeter Cave Preserve (Ga): No Report
Barton Hill Karst Preserve (NY): Boundary markers have been reset along the border with the Bauman property. Repairs and upgrades to the cabin are planned. There were 15 trips, totaling 116 visitors, to the cave this Winter.
Warrens Cave (Fla): No Report
Donald R. Russell Preserve (Okla): A mild Winter, with lots of rain, has been unusual. No problems have resulted. All is well.
Schoharie Caverns (NY): Little visitation is occurring during the Winter. A zoning hearing is planned to discuss our neighbor's subdividing of their land (within their family). The effects on water and sewerage are topics, but no problems are expected. The split will probably be allowed.
Alachua Sink Preserve (Fla): There were 12 dives this quarter; 4 of them were work dives to replace the main line through the system. Surface cleanups were made to remove weeds. Work is planned to layout a parking area and steps down to the Sink. A current guide list is provided.
Tytoona Cave Preserve (Penn): The replacement of signs on the property is planned in anticipation of a 'rope-cutting' ceremony to announce the change of ownership. Other work details are planned as the Management Team takes over control and care of the property.
AVP Comment: The Chairman of the Tytoona Management Committee has requested some form of tangible authorization from the NSS to ensure cooperation from the authorities. I'll send a letter, using NSS Letterhead, certifying that he represents the NSS for purposes of management of the property.
David H. Jagnow (Chief)
1300 Iris St., #103
Los Alamos, NM 87554-3140
(505) 662-0553
djagnow@roadrunner.com
David H. Jagnow (Chairman)
1300 Iris St., #103
Los Alamos, NM 87544-3140
(505) 662-0553
djagnow@roadrunner.com
Cave Conservation Division Structure:
Cave Conservation Committee:
David Jagnow, Chairman (Administration)
David A. Ek (Conservation Volunteer Coordinator)(closing down)
Ron Kerbo (Underground Wilderness Subcommittee)
Al Krause (Conservation Grants Coordinator)
Don McFarlane (Fauna Protection Coordinator)
Jo Schaper (Conservation Task Force Sub.)(new)
John Scheltens (NSS Federal Liaison) (Formerly Gov't Affairs)
Jim Werker & Val Hildreth-Werker (Resource Preservation Sub.)
Rob Stitt (Conservation & Management Section Chairman)
Cave Vandalism Deterrence Reward Commission: Jay Jorden- (Acting Chairman)
Commissioners: Gale Beach, George Huppert, Tom Rea, John Wilson
Plans
I plan to write occasional columns for the NSS News, entitled "Conservation Action." I plan to help resolve the cave fee issue with the US Forest Service in the next four months.
Progress
USFS (NMez & Ariz) Cave Fee Demo—I have written a Conservation Action column for the March 1998 NSS News entitled, "US Forest Service Cave Fee Proposal—An Update." As I write this report, Ray Keeler and I have had verbal reports from Jose Martinez (Lincoln National Forest, Supervisor) that they plan to drop the cave fee issue, and work cooperatively with the caver volunteers to accomplish their cave management and conservation goals. Looks positive at this time, but there's a lot of work ahead of us.
USFS, Oregon, Klamath National Forest—Steve Knutson, Co-Director of the Klamath Mountains Conservation Task Force, expressed frustration that the Scott River District of KNF is still stonewalling any management of the Marble Valley area—the biggest concentration of solutional caves west of the Continental Divide and the greatest alpine cave concentration in the US (30+ miles of cave survey). I am working with Jerry Trout to encourage proactive management/conservation of this pristine cave resource. Problem is the USFS sees these wilderness caves as managing themselves, and are hesitant to put a cave management plan in place until they see rampant vandalism.
NPS, Grand Canyon National Park—I reviewed the Cave & Karst Management Plan draft dated December 9, 1997. Overall, the plan is well written, but there were numerous minor corrections and revisions.
NPS, BLM, USFS, Lead Mining Threatens Ozark Caves—Still waiting for the courts in Missouri to resolve these jurisdictional issues. To date, Jo Schaper and I have not received any written notification of decision as called for in the Executive Summary.
Speleothem Conservation—Slow steady progress on the international ban on the sale or trade of speleothems. We need NSS members with expertise in US legislation and international law. Please contact David Jagnow or Carol Hill if you are interested in participating in this group. I have asked several cavers to monitor the Tucson Mineral
& Fossil Show, Feb. 4-14, 1998. Also investigating "Mineral Search Safaris" that runs tours to Mexico to "vie for museum quality specimens," and "Descend into the depths of a working mine to see a fabulous cave with meter long crystals."
Restoration Book—Work is progressing on this NSS publication, "Techniques for Cave Conservation and Restoration," by Jim Werker and Val Hildreth-Werker (see below). I am writing the Forward—Cave Softly... and Leave No Trace! (Not to be confused with the Cave Management Book)
AVP comment: There is currently no work in progress on the Cave Management book.
Bats Need Friends Brochure—The Bat Education CTF (Jackie Belwood & Debbie Buecher) are again working with Jim Kennedy (BCI) to produce a new color version of this brochure. Things have been delayed by changes of employment, full-time school commitments, and other life changes but Medville and I are getting things back on track.
Movie—Anyplace Wild has been working with Peter Jones to plan and film Caving in New Mexico. This 24-minute movie was filmed in the Guadalupe Mountains (Hell Below Cave & Cottonwood Cave) on December 15-21, 1997, and will air on PBS sometime this summer. Peter Jones, Lois Lyles, Dave Jagnow, and Annie Getchell (host) participated in the filming. The movie will carry a strong cave conservation and restoration message to the public. We even got to film a blizzard in the Guads.
Bats, Beacon Cave, WVa—Beacon Cave, Bluefield, WVa, has just been acquired by the Mercer County Board of Education, and is the site for a proposed new school. A non-NSS caver expressed concern about the survival of the large bat colony in the cave, and I immediately put him in touch with NSS people, resources and provided copies of the WVa Cave Protection Act. Project Underground may teach a workshop in Bluefield in the near future to educate the teachers and administration about the treasure they have beneath their future school.
Langdons Cave Vandalism, Ind—In response to e-mail by Aaron Atz, I called the Harrison County Prosecutor and wrote him a letter concerning the November 22 vandalism (formation removal and killing bats) that occurred in Langdons Cave (state owned). At last report, the prosecution of the cave vandals was proceeding just fine, and the vandals were being indicted. Thanks go out to everyone who reported the incident, wrote letters, made phone calls, and kept us informed. That's Conservation Action!
Bolting in Caves—Sport climbing in several central Oregon lava tubes has resulted in hundreds of bolts being installed in these caves. Larry King recently posted, "Citing the damage clause of the FCRPA, the Shoshone Resource Area BLM has ordered the removal of bolted climbing anchors from Teakettle Cave. Between 10 and 25 bolts were installed around the cave's skylight entrance and will be removed by the climber responsible. Other area caves are being used for climbing, specifically several unnamed lava tubes near Shoshone Ice Cave." NPS is working on a bolting policy, but I don't know the current status.
Problems
Budget—The budgeted funds for Conservation Chairman expenses were fully expended in the first half of this fiscal year—primarily because of one unexpected trip to Washington, DC, to discuss the cave fee issue with the Forest Service. I have been keeping expenses for the last half of the year to a minimum, but it is apparent that the Conservation budget for the next fiscal year needs to be increased. If the NSS is to remain active in its various battles for cave conservation, then we need to increase available funding and fund raising activities.
Federal Liaison—When Janet Thorne resigned as Director of the Government Affairs (Division) of the Conservation Committee some time back, I lost a very valuable and dedicated volunteer. Janet still serves as Chairman of the National Cave Management Steering Committee. I have been unable to locate a quality replacement for Government
Affairs, and John Scheltens has suggested that perhaps this position should be moved to the control of the NSS President. Scheltens is correct that the Federal Liaison should interact with Federal officials on more than just Conservation matters—although Conservation seems to occupy the bulk of our discussions. Doug Medville, while attending the Cave Management Symposium, pointed out that our involvement with federal land managers, policy makers, and legislators is only going to increase with time, and that we had better have our act together, organizationally. Under the NSS/USFS MOU, the national contact person for the NSS is already defined as the NSS Conservation Chairman. Many of us need to maintain good working relations with Federal officials. Medville has suggested that we form a Working Group (and include one or two NSS Directors having similar interests). I would ask the NSS EC and BOG for resolution of this position/committee. It is a very important position.
AVP Comment: This issue should be resolved. Although Scheltens is currently Chair of an NSS/NPS Liason Committee in the President’s Department, our involvement with Federal agencies goes way beyond dealing with the National Park Service. Having a "Government Affairs" or "Federal Liaison" subcommittee in the Conservation Committee as we do now, is good but our involvement with federal and state people should be at a higher level than this. I suggest that a Federal Laison Committee or "Working Group" be formed in the Presidents Department. This committee or group could consist of those Officers, Directors, and Committee Chairs whose work brings them into contact with federal and state officials and who need to coordinate and communicate with each other.
Subcommittee and Coordinator’s Reports
CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR (David A. Ek)
PROBLEM: There is on overwhelming lack of grass-roots support for this national-oriented project. Although several people from around the country submitted the needed information, the overwhelming majority either were not interested or did not agree that national coordination was needed. This project was absolutely not intended to take the place of any local coordination; in fact it was hoped to support and strengthen these local efforts. There were also many people who felt that this project was being too "submissive" to the federal cave managing agencies. As one caver noted, "in light of all the things that federal cave managers are doing to caves and cavers, words such as 'cooperation' and 'trust' were too hard to swallow."
STATUS: The project is being canceled due to a lack of grass-root support from NSS members. Since the Conservation Committee or I do not wish NSS members to feel that something was being "imposed" upon them, or that we are deviating too far astray from the wishes of the majority of NSS members, we therefore are canceling this project, at
least until there is more grass-roots support.
RESOLUTION: The NSS database and national coordination of cave conservation volunteers project that the Conservation Division and I began a little over one year ago is being terminated. This project was intended to assist local cavers, grottos, NSS, cave managers, and others interested in cave conservation projects.
AVP Comment: The intent of this Subcommittee was to develop a database of our member’s skills and abilities in various cave conservation, management, and restoration activities so that people possessing these skills could be contacted when needed. The intent was not to have national coordination of these activities or to offer these abilities to federal agencies. We’ll rethink how we want to approach this issue.
UNDERGROUND WILDERNESS SUBCOMMITTEE (Ron Kerbo) (No Report)
CONSERVATION GRANTS SUBCOMMITTEE (Albert A. Krause, Chair)
Progress Summary: Only two Conservation Grants have been awarded this fiscal year, totaling $1,250.00. A balance of $750.00 remains available for Conservation Grants. There are no applications pending. If none are received by April 1, available funds will be used to meet research needs (see below).
One Conservation Research Grant was awarded this fiscal year, using all programmed funds. One grant application is pending and will be funded from Conservation Grants funds, if available (see above) or held for funding next fiscal year.
Conservation Grants Awarded to Date:
$500.00 Conservation Grant to Dr. Hillary L. Hopper (NSS 36757), Chairman, Sloans Valley Conservation Task Force (address: 1858 Marlboro Drive, Lexington, KY 40505).
Purpose: To support administrative costs associated with the development and production of a biosphere management plan for portions of the Sloans Valley, Kentucky, Cave System and adjacent lands and research into the historic use of the Sloan's Valley Cave System environs.
Background: The Sloans Valley Conservation Task force has been involved in a years-long struggle to protect the cave system, its watershed, and its fauna from threats imposed by landfill leakage, landfill expansion, inappropriate development and other threats. Much progress has been made through research studies, public education and forums, legal action, and polical activism. It is imperative, at this point, to shift somewhat from a program of what should NOT be done to an active advocacy of what realistically should or could be done to viably protect the cave resource while admitting of human activity in the area.
$750 Conservation Grant to William E. Kimbler, Chairman, Black Diamond Resource Conservation & Development Council,Inc. (address: Route 4, Box 49, Lebanon, VA 24266).
Purpose: To support the development and construction of a traveling karst display for use in Southwestern Virginia and elsewhere as a mobile educational tool. This display, which will be available for loan to NSS and other conservation and educational organizations, is intended to travel regionally to schools, libraries, and other public places to educate people as to the nature, vulnerabilities, and significance of karst features, terranes and their included waters and life forms.
Background: NSS support is being augmented by grants from the Cave Conservancy of the Virginias and other conservation-oriented organizations, both public and private. The main focus of the Black Diamond Resource Conservation & Development Council is water and watershed quality. In southwestern Virginia, this concern is intimately tied to the issue of cave and karstland protection and conservation.
$500 Conservation Research Grant to Huntsville Grotto, NSS: PO Box 1702, Huntsville, AL 35807.
Purpose: To support the purchase of automated temperature logging sensors and associated software and data retrieval equipment to be used in research into the environmental conditions and their changes over time within Shelta Cave, Alabama. This research is intended to yield valuable data on variations in conditions and to be incorporated into other studies intended to document and assess the impact of air/water temperature changes on the cave's biota, with a special emphasis on the cave's viability as habitat for a maternity colony of Gray Bats.
Background: The Huntsville Grotto is engaged in a multi-faceted long-term program to study Shelta Cave and its resources, to include studying environmental conditions and variations. The data derived from this study is expected to provide valuable information and conclusions which should enhance our understanding of the environmental needs of several cave species and provide information useful for management planning for Shelta Cave and, perhaps, others.
Plans: No change.
Problems: Controversy exists as to the propriety of the Grants Committee's unilateral exclusion of gating projects from grant eligibility. Request BOG validate, contravene or agree to "leave matters at committee discretion" regarding this policy. (Item forwarded from last two reports.)
FAUNA PROTECTION SUBCOMMITTEE (Don McFarlane, Chairman)
(No Report, little activity)
RESOURCE PRESERVATION SUBCOMMITTEE
(Val Hildreth-Werker & Jim Werker)
Plans: Convention—Arrangements are being made with the 1998 NSS Convention for scheduling the conservation, ethics, and restoration techniques workshop.
Progress:
(a) Book—Work is progressing for the NSS publication, Techniques for Cave Conservation and Restoration. The schedule has been sent to contributors. We have outlines for the sections. The book is now outlined in detail and the authors are beginning to write their contributions. David McClurg will report further detail in the Spring 1998 BOG Report.
(b) Video—The potential NSS/NOLS/interagency video companion to the brochure entitled, Caves...Conservation & Ethics is at a standstill. Work is progressing very slowly because key team members have been absorbed by other cave-related issues, projects, and fee demos. We continue to pursue other avenues to initiate a professional video addressing cave conservation, safety, and ethics.
(c) Display—The Resource Preservation Subcommittee has developed a display addressing restoration techniques. The Forest Service transported it to the National Cave and Karst Management Symposium in Bellingham, Washington, October 7-10, 1997. Illustrating proven methods of speleothem restoration, formation repair and trail management, the display content is aimed at a general audience of people interested in caves and provides educational material on conservation, ethics, and cave restoration techniques. The joint NSS/Forest Service restoration exhibit is housed by the Guadalupe Ranger District of the Lincoln National Forest.
(d) Slideshow—As we put together the slide show on restoration and repair for the NSS library, workshops continue with various groups. Repair and restoration projects continue in Lechuguilla, the Guadalupe caves, and Arizona. Additionally, work is progressing on a video for speleothem repair.
(e) Workshops/Projects—Restoration projects continue in Lechuguilla Cave. We led six expeditions in 1996, four in 1997, and have four scheduled for 1998. The trips focus on the development of restoration techniques that will avoid disturbing microbiota and virgin surfaces. Ideas are often discussed to reduce future impacts as cavers explore and study the cave. We presented a paper on Microbial Preservation, Trail Definition and Restoration in Lechuguilla at the National Cave Management Symposium in Washington, October 1997.
(f) NSS News—We will continue to submit articles and announcements to the NSS News.
(g) Cave Fees—We urge every NSS member, grotto, and section to focus on cave fee and cave conservation issues in the political arena. Positive comments supporting caver volunteer projects and refuting the USDA Forest Service Fee Demo Plan will continue to be useful, especially now that the Forest Service may be more positive about caver projects. Please send copies of your letters and inquiries for archiving to: werks@worldnet.att.net
AVP Comment: This issues appears to be on the way to resolution, given the forest Service’s acceptance of our proposal for providing volunteer services in lieu of their having a cave fee demonstration program.
Problems: (None)
NSS FEDERAL LIAISON SUBCOMMITTEE (vacant)
(This subcommittee may be consolidated under the President’s Department as noted under "Problems" above).
CONSERVATION TASK FORCE SUBCOMMITTEE (Jo Schaper) (new)
Jo Schaper has volunteered to assume the position of CTF Coordinator. She will be contacting each of the CTFs for their annual reports and updated materials for the 1998 Members Manual.
Jay R. Jorden (Acting Chairman)
11201 County Road 132
Celina TX 75009-2527
(214) 382-2458
jjorden@texoma.net
Progress
As acting chair of the Cave Vandalism Deterrence Reward Commission, I have been trying to get my feet on the ground after a period of inactivity involving the panel's prior leadership, compile a list of the current (or last known) commissioners and pick up the trail where it left off.
AVP Comment: Current Commissioners are: Jay Jorden (Acting Chair), Gail Beach, George Huppert, Tom Rea, and John Wilson).
I've also corresponded with and called to Richard C. Mangelsdorf Jr., an attorney who chairs the Nashville Grotto, about an act of vandalism or theft at Hubbards Cave in Warren County, Tenn., last summer. Richard forwarded such detailed information as is available on the removal or burning of a Civil War era handmade rung ladder in the cave. Its photo appears in a guide to Tennessee caves from 1971.
The Nashville Grotto is establishing a cash reward to be paid to anyone with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the vandalism or theft. The grotto wants to coordinate and pay such a reward through the Commission, which likely could match or at least augment the regional sum. I'm in the process of copying the materials Richard sent along with a cover letter to be sent to the last list of Commissioners I had (c. 1997) and a ballot for whether to participate and at what level.
Plans
For the future, catching up with old business (like the proverbial tip of the iceberg, there could be more for the Titanic) and advertising the commission's work in suitable publications—rockhounding, etc.—seem to be good goals.
Problems
That's where I'm at now. I've been going through back files to find the Commission materials I was mailed—although some now are dated. If John or anyone else has more current data, since Chris Hacker never came through with anything, it would be most appreciated. Otherwise, we forge ahead.
Robert R. Stitt
1417 9th Ave. W
Seattle, WA 98119-3224
(206) 283-2283
rstitt@halcyon.com
Plans
Get my final issues of the Cave Conservationist out; find a new editor for it; and retire as publisher. Move the CCMS and HSS web sites to the NSS Server in February. Continue to maintain and update those sites as often as possible or required. Publish the NCMS 97 Proceedings in time for the NSS Convention.
Progress
I've heard from no one except Evelyn Bradshaw about a new publisher. My three last catch up issues are started, but may not get out until after the NCMS proceedings are out. Web site is about 90% ready for the move, with some restructuring of the local files on my computer still needed. NCMS Proceedings are about a month behind schedule, but there was some slack. Our other volunteer flaked, so it would appear I am the prime backup. I'm going to look for some assistance.
Problems
The usual time bind. Too many things to do and not enough time. How did I get into this? [rhetorical question]. But no time for the rhetorical answer.
Hazel E. Medville (Chief)
11762 Indian Ridge Rd.
Reston, VA 20191
(703) 860-0134
medville@patriot.net
Steve Stokowski (Chairman)
10 Clark Street
Ashland, MA 01721-2145
(508) 881-6364
caversteve@aol.com
No report received. Steve has indicated that he’d like to step down from this Committee and I will advertise for a new Chair.
Barbara L. Moss (Chairman)
7713 Shreve Rd.
Falls Church, VA 22043-3315
(703) 573-1068
ke4bvq@amsat.org
Progress
USGS Packet: I’ve submitted a press release quote to the USGS and am waiting to hear more about the exact release date.
Project Underground: Carol Zokaites has submitted a written summary of activities (see below). I’m continuing to respond to letters sent by teachers and students to the NSS Office.
Target: Target stores have listed the NSS as a source of information in their recent Environmental issue, available near their checkout stands. Project Underground and the NSS are mentioned in their class activity newsletter.
Plans
The Environmental Education Committee (EEC) is keeping track of their time spent on EEC business, in order to provide a cost estimate for the NSS contributions for Project Underground and related activities. This information can be used as "matching funds" on grant applications.
Problems
None at this time.
Project Underground Report to the NSS
Plans
Continue supporting the Virginia Program, start a state program in West Virginia, continue supporting facilitators in other states, and update the Project Underground Activity Guide
Progress
1. Workshops
295 educators were introduced to Project Underground in 1997. 17 Project Underground workshops were held. 10 in Virginia. 1 each in Pennsylvania, Missouri, Minnesota, Arkansas and Washington State.
A facilitators training workshop is planned for West Virginia March 24-25. Workshops being planned for the Tennessee Convention, New Mexico, Missouri and Virginia.
2. Funding
We were able to use the $5,000 grant from the NSS as a match for an additional $5,000 from the EPA. This was a great way to double the money!
3. Other things happening
Article in Earthsaver magazine and Teachers Activity Guide on Big Eared Bats and Cave Critters, using Project Underground materials. Gifted Education Program using Project Underground materials in Virginia. Groundwater Guardian Affiliate Team - Project Underground is part of the Virginia Team, including state agencies and non-profit groups, doing groundwater education.
Problems
No large problems at this time. The program is growing rapidly, with lots of interest. As always our biggest problem is maintaining the funding to support this karst and cave education program.
Bernard (Butch) M. Feldhaus (National Coordinator)
5416 Hunter Village Drive
Ooltewah, TN 37363-7004
(423) 238-7009 (H)
(423) 751-8549 (W)
bfeldhaus@compuserve.com
BOARD OF REGIONAL COORDINATORS (BORC)
John Appleby (Eastern Region Coordinator)
David Ashburn (Training Coordinator)
Harry Burgess (Southwestern Region Coordinator)
Sam Chewning, MD (MedicalCoordinator)
Amanda Clark (Central Region Coordinator)
John Evans (Northeast Region Coordinator)
John Gookin (Rocky Mountain Region Coordinator)
John Green (South Central Region Coordinator)
William E. Maher (Western Region Coordinator)
Henry Nicholson (Diving Coordinator)
Mimi Ortiz (Caribbean Region Coordinator
Jeff Parnell (Southeastern Region Coordinator)
John Punches (Pacific Northwest Region Coordinator)
OFFICERS AND STAFF
Harold Chrimes (NCRC Equipment Manager)
Rick Deel (Education Board Member)
Andy Franklin (NCRC Discussion and Administrative List Manager)
Bryan Lavender (Education Board Member)
Barb Ritts (Education Board Member)
Bruce Smith (Education Board Member/NCRC Curriculum Coordinator)
Bill Stringfellow (NCRC Financial Officer)
Kathy Welling (NCRC Recording Secretary)
Vacant (NCRC Inventory Officer)
Vacant (NCRC Records Officer)
Progress
The Board Of Regional Coordinators (BORC) conducted its annual Winter Business Meeting on January 31, 1998, at the DuBose Conference Center in Monteagle, Tenn. Highlights of this meeting include:
In honor of the memory of NCRC Instructor Frank Reid, the BORC adopted the name "Reid Patch" for the device which interfaces the cave field-phone system with the outside world (radio, etc.). Frank was instrumental in the development of this patch.
Bill Stringfellow of Atlanta, GA, was appointed interim NCRC Financial Officer while a search for a permanent Financial Officer is conducted.
Several new NCRC courses were approved for pilot testing in 1998. They are:
1. NCRC Course Coordinator Course—This four-day/thirty-hour course will prepare its graduates to conduct training courses ranging from simple one day orientations to the more complex weeklong seminars. This curriculum will be pilot tested with a select group during this summers national weeklong seminar.
2. NCRC Orientation to Cave Rescue (formerly known as the Basic Cave Rescue Orientation Course or Basic Orientation Course)—This three-day/weekend course is one of NCRCs most popular offerings. The curriculum has been formalized into lesson plans with all the forms and procedures necessary to conduct the course.
3. Small Party—Self Rescue—This stand alone week long curriculum is targeted at experienced cavers and teaches them how to deal with a cave accident occurring to a member of their caving group while caving in a rational and informed manner. It will be pilot tested with a select group during this summer’s national weeklong seminar.
4. With only minor revisions the substantial upgrade of the Levels I, II, III, and Instructor Qualification Curriculum pilot tested during last year’s national weeklong seminar was adopted for use. Enhancements to other portions of these courses were also approved for pilot testing at this summer’s seminar, and deal mainly with testing and skills check-off.
Chuck Hempel reported that the revision to the "Manual of US Cave Rescue Techniques" is underway and nearing completion. The new manual will be "pilot tested" this summer at the national week long seminar. After considering information gained from this test, the new manual will hopefully go to press in the fall or 1998. This new manual will be over four hundred pages long.
Bruce Smith of Harrison, Tenn, was re-appointed to another two-year term on the NCRC Education Board as a member-at-large. Bruce will also continue to serve as the NCRC Curriculum Coordinator.
The BORC adopted a policy that all members of the Education Board and its hierarchy, the NCRC Financial, Records and Inventory Officers, and the Recording Secretary as-well-as all NCRC Instructors be required to maintain current NSS membership during their tenure.
A Medical Quality Assurance Peer Review Process and Morbidity and Mortality Committee has been proposed by the Medical Coordinator. This process and committee can be a useful tool for evaluating and realigning the NCRC curriculum to truly meet the needs of the persons/teams involved in actual cave rescue.
In a response to the changing nature (expansion) of the Course Coordinator’s duties, the position of Seminar Registrar was removed from the Education Board, and made a position which is appointed on a case-by-case basis by the Course Coordinator. This change, coupled with the removal of the Database Manager from the Education Board (now a staff position reporting to the Training Coordinator) realigns the Education Board into a more curriculum development and education oriented body.
The 1999 National Weeklong Seminar was approved for Lava Beds National Monument, Calif. Final dates are in the process of being set. The 2000 National Weeklong Seminar is still on track for Virginia, and the 2001 National Week long is still on track for Texas.
Plans
The National Weeklong Seminar will be conducted July 25 to August 1, 1998, in Monteagle, Tenn. This is the week before convention, and the site is only six miles from the convention site.
The Eastern Region is preparing to conduct a regional Weeklong Level I and II seminar in June 1998.
The Caribbean Region is preparing to conduct a Weeklong Level I and II seminar in Costa Rica in April 1998.
The Western Region is preparing to conduct a Weeklong Level I and II seminar in the Spring of 1998.
The South Central Region is preparing to conduct a Weeklong Level I seminar in March of 1998.
Over fifteen other weekend courses, mostly "Orientation to Cave Rescue" will be conducted during the next six months.
If all the proposed training takes place, approximately 3,500 student-days of learning will have taken place this summer!!
Candidates will be sought for the following Coordinators positions which will be up for appointment at this summer’s BORC meeting: Training, Medical, Southeastern and Caribbean. Additionally, one "at-large" member of the NCRC Education Board will also be up for consideration.
The Summer Meeting of the BORC will take place on Tuesday of the week of the NSS Convention. As has been the policy in the past, this meeting will be light on business and heavy on the mandate of our charter, which is: "This meeting will be open to the public and provide a forum for the Commission to present recent accomplishments and future plans to the Society membership and solicit membership feedback."
NCRC is continuing to move most of its correspondence to e-mail, which has resulted in a tremendous savings of time and money. Most of the rough drafts of curricula, agendas and reports are now exchanged by e-mail. Within the year it is hoped that all reports submitted by the NCRC will be in the format currently used by the NSS AVP for the BOG reports, which will result in even larger savings for the NCRC and the NSS.
The search for NCRC Financial, Inventory, and Records Officers continues.
Problems
Finding qualified candidates for the positions of Financial, Inventory, and Records Officers who not only have the skills but the time to do the job needed so badly.
William Cuddington (Chairman)
3412 Hutchens Ave., SE
Huntsville, AL 35801
(205) 536-2177
miriambl@aol.com
Progress
More Safety and Techniques articles have been published in the NSS News. We have added two new members on our committee. They are Tim White and Bill Davis. The STC is still working hand in hand with the Vertical Section of the NSS.
Plans
To produce more STC articles for the NSS News. Also, some of the STC members will be instructors with the next couple of Vertical Section Workshops.
Problems
Not every grotto wants to have its own Safety Committee. However, I will keep trying to encourage all grottos to have a safety program.
John P. Scheltens (Chairman)
303 North River St.
Hot Springs, SD 57747-1626
(605) 745-4366
102370.2314@compuserve.com
Progress
As you are all very well aware by now the Cincinnati Museum has decided not to produce the Cave IMAX film. This was a business decision made by the museum's board of directors. Although the museum was successful in securing $1.7 million in support from the National Science Foundation Informal Elementary and Secondary Education program, the board of directors determined that the business risk of continuing to take the lead on this project was simply too great.
Kit Anderson, Director of Film Projects for the CMNH and Jackie Bellwood, the CMNH Science Director have left the employment of the museum.
It is a major disappointment that the CMNH could not complete the production of the film. Kit Anderson, Jackie Bellwood and many others have dedicated more than 3 years of work, money and time towards this film. Kit Anderson expresses her sincere thanks and appreciation to the National Speleological Society for our time, dedication and support of the project and she deeply regrets that the project was not completed.
Although, the CMNH will not produce the film, the film producer "MacGillivray Freeman" has taken on the project independently and DEFINITELY will make an IMAX Cave Film. The CMNH have arranged to transfer the NSF grant to MacGillvray Freeman Films.
MacGillvray Freeman Films intends to start film production THIS MARCH !!
Problems
MacGillvray Freeman is an independent film producer that has produced many IMAX films including two that have been funded by NSF. Right now it is anybody's guess as to what will be produced, what caves will be used, and whether the end product will become an assest or liability to caves. The producer has informed me that the film will be made with international appeal and shown in theaters around the world. The viewing audience is expected to be well over 50 million people.
Plans
I have spoken with Mr. Joshua Colover of MacGillvray Freeman Films about the possibility of utilizing the expertise of the NSS. I have expressed that the NSS is very concerned over the content of the film and its impact on caves. We are sincerely concerned over issues of conservation, safety and factual content. I have proposed that we utilize the members of the Science Advisory Committee that we had organized for the CMNH project. I would like this NSS Science Advisory Committee to review script and film footage for conservation, safety and factual science content. I also want a message at the end of the film directing interested viewers who want to know more about caves to the NSS.
I believe it is far better for the NSS to develop a working relationship, or better yet a partnership, with MacGillvray Freeman if we can. Conversations with Mr. Colover so far are receptive. Apparently, for NSF funding, they need to have a quality education product which includes an outreach program and supplemental educational materials, including workbooks and teacher education aids. By incorporating the expertise of the NSS, we have an opportunity to fulfill many of these requirements. Mr. Colover is speaking with his decision makers and will get back to me in about a week.
The NSS should be prepared to negotiate a professional arrangement. This might include producing the school educational materials, providing science advisors for the film, script reviewers, film site location recommendations, and even possibly being a corporate sponsor.
Things are going to happen very quickly in the next couple of weeks and/or months. We need to be ready to actively participate or sit back in the audience with everybody else and let the chips fall where they may. I look to the BOG and Executive Committee for guidance.
PS: They are currently seeking experts on Ice Caves. Who are our top people in that field?
Carol Tiderman (Chief)
7600 Pindell School Rd.
Fulton, MD 20759-9725
(410) 792-0742
tiderman@erols.com
Carol Tiderman (Chairman)
7600 Pindell School Rd.
Fulton, MD 20759-9725
(410) 792-0742
tiderman@erols.com
Progress
I forwarded the final financial report from the Missouri NSS Convention to the NSS Treasurer. I continue to stay in contact with convention committees for the 1998, 1999, and 2000 Conventions. I am also in communication with potential hosts for other conventions and am publishing a call for bids in the NSS News. I’m continuing to update the Convention Manual and have distributed the latest version to approved and potential hosts.
Plans
Continue with the above.
Problems
Convention registration software is not available, as planned, to forward to the Idaho Convention staff. As yet, there are no volunteers for hosting the 2001 Convention.
Joe Walsh (Co-Chairman)
660 Green Hedge Dr.
Fenton, MO 63026-3465
(314) 343-6875
jolowal@aol.com
Pamela F. Saberton (Co-Chairman)
3820 Juniata St.
St. Louis, MO 63116-4814
(314) 772-6956
PamS10732@aol.com
The Convention Treasurer, Debbie Quamen, has submitted a final financial report. She reports that the books have been closed for this Convention and a surplus of $11,178 was recorded.
William Shrewsbury (Chairman)
PO Box 4444
Chattanooga, TN 37405
(615) 886-3296
taglite@bigfoot.com
Progress
During our last report we had listed under the problems section: "Luncheons usually prefer to have their meals in their session rooms. Sewanee has a strict policy of "no food in classes." We are seeking special permission for a select area, and may possibly have to have the meeting adjourn to a special dining area down the hall."
This has been resolved. As per our contract, we are permitted to have food in the rooms "with prior permission." Randall Taylor, our contact with the University of the South, said "I am now giving you that permission. Use your own judgment." Problem solved.
Since our last report, most work has been done on collecting information -Sessions, Events and PR. Session requests are going pretty well. We feel that our daily calendar will be pretty busy, and attendees will definitely have to make a few choices this year.
We now have a signed contract with the University of the South. Paperwork not withstanding, this was just a matter of finding the time to get together and do this. We have had the College's blessings since we first approached them in '95.
Monty Keel is now in charge of volunteers. This will be posted on our local news-groups (TAG-Net) and published in the NSS News in the near future. We felt it was important to have someone coordinate all of the volunteers who ask in advance of the event "How can I help?"
Publications are coming along fine. A proposed Convention cave list was e-mailed out to the TAG region and comments were collected. This has allowed us the flexibility to get immediate feedback on cave/landowner status, and even add a few more obscure ones to the list. It has also allowed the region's cavers to help protect our more sensitive areas.
The band has been signed, and their deposit paid. It should be noted that our band will be a lot more lively than in '89. They promise to cater to the attendees, not their specialty songs.
Since the Campus is not building their 'Party Barn', we were forced to include tent and stage rental in our newer budget. This should be coming to you from Stringfellow. While this makes it a little tighter with an attendance of 800 full registrants (our break even number), the day passes should easily provide us some float.
The Registration Software is well in hand. All major problems have now been accounted for, and he has spent the last several evenings rebuilding the front end to it. The software will handle multiple Conventions at a time, with separate costs and product lists. The NSS membership database can now be imported in. This will eliminate a lot of typing for the registrar. A copy is being sent to Kathleen Welling ASAP for her review.
The NSS properties that we have (the two trailers and their contents) have been inventoried. That report has been sent to the appropriate Chairs. The plans are still to auction off the trailers. I will leave it to Mike Gunderloy to fill in our full report for the contents.
Plans
A schedule of work weekends have been set up, primarily for campground work:
April 4 - Finish water line hookup. Attach faucets to old line.
June 20 - Trim brush. Water line/power RV area. Vendor area work.
July 11 - Out house site hardening. Access into water tower field.
July 18 - Poison ivy/insect patrol. Final prep. (Showers)
Aug. 1 - Crisis management. Camp ground opens at noon.
Our next work weekend is shortly after the BOG meeting, so more progress will be reported in our Pre-Convention report. If Doug (or someone) will provide me with an e-mail list of the need-to-knows of the NSS, I will be glad to keep them updated with our current activities on a monthly basis. This might give them a little more timely insight into our plans.
Final touches and reporting will be added to the Registration Software.
Problems
None to report at this time. Our next report will report our Progress as we solve any problems that may come up.
David W. Kesner (Chairman)
12567 W. DeMeyer St.
Boise, ID 83713-1409
(208) 939-0979
drdave@micron.net
Mike Backe (Co-Chairman)
HC 33 Box 3294
Boise, ID 83706
mikebacke@rmci.net
Progress
A meeting of the 1999 NSS Convention Committee was held October 18, 1997, at the Twin Falls County Fairgrounds. Everyone toured the facilities and agreed it will be more than adequate for a medium sized convention. Doug Medville (NSS AVP) attended this meeting as well and provided inputs.
Jim Hathorn, Facilities Chair, has been in contact with the Filer School Board and we should have a contract signed by the next Convention meeting. Jim negotiated a deal to include use of the entire school rather than trying to anticipate what smaller portion might actually be needed. It was hoped that we could use a clause in the contract that allows non-profit educational entities to use the facilities at no cost, but that is not the case. However, future convention committees should look into this possibility. Jim has also been in contact with several vendors to get an idea of what they might require or want in the way of facilities. Bob Liebman (Bob & Bob) toured the facility in January and gave his input as it pertained to the vendor
Charlie Wilkerson, Social Chair, passed around preliminary artwork for the Convention logo, T-shirts, and other symbolic devices. Input was taken from everyone and the final designs should be ready at the next meeting. Charlie has found another caterer and will present this information at the next meeting.
Peggy Kesner, Treasurer, has received the list of account codes, but is still waiting on the official NSS accounting software program.
Plans
The next meeting of the 1999 NSS Convention Committee will be at 2:00 pm MST at the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce in downtown Twin Falls. We hope to have all major costs determined by this time so we can put together the pre-registration form. At this point we are shooting for a $99.00 registration fee to correspond to the year 1999.
A final vote will be taken on the artwork and slogan to be used on the registration form, t-shirts, and other symbolic devices.
Sam Lair, Promotion Chair, will start working on the web page and the slide program that will be presented at the 1998 Convention. The State of Idaho has just released their new Travel Guide. Sam is looking into obtaining a quantity of these to have available at the 1998 Convention.
Problems
Jennifer Dorman, Registration Chair, has not heard anything more about the official NSS registration software program. If this program is not going to be ready before August, she will need to start developing a database of her own.
We are having problems with one of the anticipated major contributors to the Guide Book. There are some personality problems between this individual and the Convention Chair that have so far been unable to be resolved. If alternatives are not able to be found, then some sort of mediator might be needed. At this point several other individuals and Grottos have voiced interest in helping in the situation, but because of winter cave closures nothing has been done yet.
Kelley (Deacon) Deem (Chairman)
167 Blue Ridge Acres
Harpers Ferry WV 25425
(304) 725-9812 (H)
(304) 366-1810 (W)
deem@mammoth-geo.com
Progress
We gave a deposit to the Davis & Elkins College to use their auditorium for the photo salon. Our complete contract to use the Elkins High School is under preparation. The facilities coordinator met with the new county school superintendent, who is very positive about having us there. More staff positions were recently filled, including Program Ad Sales, Consignment Sales, Information, and Special Events (non-caving). The Special Events Coordinator is already looking into guided trips through Dolly Sods, to Seneca Rocks, to the Fish Hatchery, to the Greenbank Observatory, and to local Civil War historic sites. The Guidebook Editor completed a rough draft of the first 45 pages. Our webmaster has been reviewing Convention 1998s site for good ideas to include in ours.
Plans
We’ll have a full staff meeting on Saturday, May 2, 1998, at the Spring VAR in Draper, Virginia. We also expect to finalize the contract with the school board soon. We’re hoping to select a convention logo this summer. The treasurer is continuing dialogue on NSS registration and accounting software. We’re also working on a tickler slide show for this year’s convention and we’re going to review past convention slide shows and videos to assess what will work or not work for us.
Problems
So far, we haven’t encountered any significant obstacles or problems we could not easily deal with. We are still searching for a permanent staff secretary to distribute agendas, take notes at our meetings, and distribute minutes in a timely fashion. We have someone to do this for our first few meetings, but still need a more permanent person.
Kathy Welling (Chairman)
1717 North Star Road
Columbus, OH 43212-2157
irish.bat@worldnet.att.net
Report not received.
Carol S. Jackson (Chairman)
4784 Silver Lake Dr.
Evans GA 30809-9758
(706) 863-7019
olebat@aol.com
Report not received.
Duane A. Vore (Chairman)
328 Jenny Lane
Centerville, OH 45459-1737
(513) 433-1787
davore@erinet.com
Progress
In the January 1998 NSS News, Lysa De Thomas wrote a very nice article about the JSS, its history, and achievements to date. For those who haven’t read it, I recommend it highly.
Plans
The JSS will be active at this year’s NSS Convention with plans for rock climbing, boating, more cave trips, and more hands-on science classes.
Problems
None at present.
Paul Stevens (Chairman)
5964 Seabright Rd.
Springfield, VA 22152-1738
(703) 451-7663
plstevens@aol.com
Progress
The call for entries for the 1998 Salons has been written, sent to the NSS News, and posted on the NSS web site. Proposed changes for slide salon entry categories have been sent to cave photographers for comment.
Plans
Beginning in 1999, the Cartographic Salon will be run by Don Coons, who is replacing George Dasher after many years of service. Also, the T-shirt salon will be run by Philip Davis, replacing Bill Bussey, also retiring after many years of service.
Problems
The 1998 salon will be held in a Field House rather than the 900 seat theater used at the last Sewanee Convention. Although this avoids the need for having two sessions, the field house has windows at the top of high walls and as a result, the salon won’t begin until after dark: (9:00 pm or later).