Board of Governors

National Speleological Society

Department of the

Administrative Vice President

November 8, 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Administrative Vice President 3

Cave Management Division 4

Cave and Karst Acquisition Committee 5

Cave Conservancies Committee 6

Additional Material 7

Contemporary Cave Use Study Committee 10

Land Owner Relations Committee 12

NSS Cave Preserves Committee 13

Attachments from Cave Preserves 14

McFails Cave 14

Shelta Cave 15

Guilday Preserve 15

Kingston Saltpeter Cave 15

Barton Hill Karst Preserve 15

Warren Cave 15

Donald R. Russell Cave Preserve 16

Schoharie Caverns 16

Alucha Sinks 17

Conservation Division 17

Conservation Committee 17

Conservation Volunteer Coordinator 21

Underground Wilderness 22

Conservation Grants 22

Fauna Protection 23

Resource Preservation 24

Federal Liaison 25

Conservation Task Forces 25

Vandalism Deterrence Reward Commission 26

Cave Conservation and Management Section 26

Education Division 27

Educational Opportunities Committee 27

Environmental Education Committee 28

Project Underground Attachment 28

National Cave Rescue Commission 30

Safety and Techniques Committee 34

Television Video Production Committee 34

NSS Convention Division 34

Convention Development Committee 35

1997 NSS Convention 36

1998 NSS Convention 36

1998 Convention Attachments 38

1999 NSS Convention 43

2000 NSS Convention 44

Convention Registration Software Committee 45

Convention Sessions Committee 46

Congress of Grottos 47

Junior Speleological Society 48

Salon Coordinator 49

Appendix A

Appendix B

Administrative Vice President

Douglas Medville
11762 Indian Ridge Rd.
Reston, VA 20191

(703) 860-0134

medville@patriot.net

There are 22 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. Following some reports, I have attached supplementary material provided by the Committee. This material is in a smaller type size (10 point) than the main report text to distinguish it from the Committee report.

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, provide some context-setting remarks, or even (rarely) disagree with the Committee Chair.

AVP Department News

Cooperative Agreement with Mammoth Cave National Park

On Sept. 25, I received a copy of a draft Statement of Work for a Proposed Cooperative Agreement (CA) between Mammoth Cave National Park (MCNP) and the NSS under which the NSS would carry out restoration activities in MCNP over a five year period. This is enclosed as Appendix A. I also received written answers to several questions that were asked by Dave Irving and myself. The Park Service wants us to respond with a proposal and budget for doing this work. These are being prepared by Norm Rogers (NSS 29547), who has been leading Cave Restoration Camps in MCNP for the past eight years. I expect that the Cooperative Agreement resulting from our proposal will be available for discussion and a vote at the BOG meeting in November. There will be motions on the agenda for approval of the CA, creation of a new Committee in the Conservation Division to manage this work, and for staffing this Committee.

The material from MCNP was distributed to the Officers at the EC meeting on Sept. 27 and several questions were asked. I discussed these with Bob Ward (Div. of Science and Resource Management at MCNP) in a phone conversation on Sept. 30.

Money: They have FY98 and FY99 funds that they want to transfer to the NSS. These funds will be used to pay for our volunteer’s expenses, e.g., mileage, Park lodging, meals, for up to a five year period. Their preference (and ours) is that funds be transferred to us at the beginning of each fiscal year and that we reimburse our members from these funds. We will work out the mechanism for doing this. Purchases of tools and supplies will come out of the CA funds and these items will belong to MCNP. The NSS will provide MCNP with matching "funds" through the provision of our volunteer labor, costed at a GS-2 rate of about $12/hour.

Risks: Under the Volunteers in Park program, our members are treated as employees for purposes of workman’s compensation in case of injuries. They won’t be exposed to hazardous materials but should get tetanus shots for exposure to rusty nails, etc.

Scope of Work: We’ll perform restoration activities in Mammoth Cave (remove an abandoned trail and lighting from Echo River, restore rocks along the north wall of Houchin’s Narrows, remove lint and graffiti) and will remove these materials from the cave. The Park has to decide whether they will haul away this material after it leaves the cave or whether we will do it. If we haul it away, the cost will come out of the CA funds, reducing the amount available for the volunteers- the Park is thinking about this.

I’ll keep the BOG informed of developments as they occur and will send the Statement of Work and other information received from the Park to Joel Stevenson for legal review. If anyone has questions before the BOG meeting, please let me know.

Memorandum of Understanding with BCI

Bat Conservation International (BCI) has prepared a Memorandum of Understanding between it and the NSS for our consideration. This is attached as Appendix B. A motion will be on the November BOG agenda for approval of this MOU.

Cave Management Division

Mike Hood (Chairman)
23 Wells Ave.
Dayton, OH 45431-1420

(513) 252-2978

mhcaver@aol.com

Plans

Being new to this job, I'm still feeling out all the details and responsibilities. My plan is to work with each of the committee chairs in my Division and assist them as needed. I don't believe in micro-management, so my approach to the committees will be a hands-off policy. Each committee chairman is responsible and knowledgeable in their job, so I will not dictate policy to them unless absolutely necessary. I view my position as simply monitoring their progress to ensure the job is getting done and to provide assistance when needed.

Progress

I have contacted each committee chairman and I believe we have a good rapport established. They have all expressed their support of me as Division Chief. I have reminded each of them to send me a copy of their committee reports when they send them. I have not yet received any, so I am unable to comment on them in this report.

Problems

None at this time.

Cave and Karst Acquisition Committee

Ray Keeler (Acting Chairman)
22354 N. 68^th Drive
Glendale AZ 85310-5239

(602) 561-2917

rkeeler@pcslink.com

Progress

I have spoken with both Joel Despain and Cindy Heazlett at length about the purchase of White Chief Cave in California and took copious notes. I am writing without this without those notes, sorry. These are numbers were relayed last week from Joel, from discussions six months to a year ago about the possible purchase.

Bottom line first, then background information:

The NSS would not own the White Chief Cave but for $6K to $8K could help get it deeded over to NPS. This would be a good will gesture from the NSS to help, but not a candidate for an NSS owned cave.

We have not done a "fund raising" for the NPS and this would be fairly easy at the NSS Convention next year.

Background information:

White Chief Cave is on a 20.65 acre parcel surrounded by Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park. It is on a mining claim (1800's) that is currently owned by a real estate investor. He wants to sell the land (and cave). The Park wants to buy it but has funding limitations. The selling price, (though higher earlier) is less than $70K. The land has been appraised at $17K or so. The park can go ten percent above that and can offer $20K+. A large western Land Trust: The Trust for Public Lands, (I am not sure if it is a 501-c-3 but probably is), has offered to help the Park purchase the land to the tune of $40K+'ish.

The landowner wants interest on his investment and this helpful organization balked. The Park needs about $6K to $8K to purchase the land. Additional local moneys may appear if momentum is initiated on a national level.

AVP note: It sounds like the Park pays $20K, the Trust for Public Land contributes another $40K, and the NSS contributes the remaining $8K to buy this property, assuming that the owner will part with it for $68K.

The cave is at 10,500 feet. The trailhead is at 8,000 feet, 3 1/2 miles away. The approach by vehicle is 1.5 hours for 25 miles. Access is closed due to snow for about eight months per year. The surrounding lands are under review for Wilderness status. Two camp areas near/at the trail head allow for substantial summer "flashlight visitation". The cave is 1K to 3K feet, wet in places and cold at 38 degrees. Best features: excellent marble, large rooms for an alpine cave, wilderness surrounding.

If we help put this together, the NSS would want access guarantees.

There is both local and regional support. CRF has been doing research and is a constructive presence. They have not been approached for funds.

I have told Joel we will discuss this at the November BOG. If there is interest, it could be placed on the Spring BOG agenda. There is no pressing time issues with reference to the cave's status to force a transaction immediately.

Plans

Follow up on any possible purchases as I become aware of them.

Problems

None at present.

AVP comment: Regarding the Tytoona Cave acquisition in Pennsylvania, we are still waiting for the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to sign off on the Conservation Easement that we agreed to with them this past Spring. WPC has a new lawyer who wants to review the CE. If he has no substantive changes to make, we’ll sign off on it and proceed with the acquisition. If he does have substantive changes, we’ll return to the BOG for additional discussion and another decision (I do not want this to happen and want the agreed upon deal to go through.

Cave Conservancies Committee

John M. Wilson (Chairman)
9504 Lakewater Ct.
Richmond, VA 23229-6010

(540)568-2989 (work)

wilso3jm@jmu.edu

Progress

(a) Inform Conservancies of the NSS about services offered to cave conservancies, encourage conservancy status, and develop a Web page.

Action: See the information below for material that is to be part of the Web page and sent to conservancies.

(b) Sponsor a conference for cave conservancies and land trusts in connection with the 1998 NSS convention

Action: I have asked Bill Putnam of the Southeastern Cave Conservancy to organize a two day conference in association with the 1998 NSS Convention.

(c) Clarify the Mission of the Cave Conservancy Committee

Action: A proposed mission statement is printed below.

Plans

Contact all known cave and cave related conservancies in the U.S. 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 having 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.

Problems

Some leaders of cave conservancies do not understand the differences between an NSS Internal Organization and a Conservancy.

Additional Material Concerning the NSS Conservancies Committee

NSS Conservancies Committee

This committee serves as a means for Cave Conservancies to access NSS services and NSS member expertise. The NSS can provide information that is useful to cave managers and assist in conservancies as needed.

The Cave Conservancies Committee is in the Department of the Administrative Vice President in the Cave Management Division. It encourages all cave conservancies and other groups responsibly managing caves to affiliate with the NSS.

Conservancy Designation

Requirements for Conservancy Designation

Agree with the purposes of the NSS. The major officers of the conservancy are expected to be NSS members. Apply in writing by e-mail or hard copy to the Cave Conservancies Committee, provide a statement of intent to affiliate as an NSS Cave Conservancy, and provide a list of major officers and any other information that describes the activities and purpose of the conservancy.

The Cave Conservancies Committee recommends action on approval to the Board of Governors, which has the authority to confer the NSS Conservancy designation.

What The Conservancy Designation Means

NSS Conservancies:

1. May use the following statement in its publications, stationary, promotional material and other places: "A Conservancy of the National Speleological Society"

2. Be listed in NSS publications as a Conservancy of the NSS

3. Are classified within a group of organizations referred to as "NSS activities". These presently include four groups of organizations. They are: NSS Expeditions, NSS Projects, Conservation Task Forces, and Conservancies. All of these NSS activities operate with autonomy from the NSS leadership. These relationships for the other activities parallel the ones listed here for Conservancies and are defined in Appendix P of the Board of Governors Manual.

4. Have convenient and low cost access to communication with NSS members.

5. Services are provided by the Cave Conservancies Committee as mutually agreed by the Committee and the Cave Conservancy.

6. May give up the designation at any time.

What Conservancy Designation Does Not Mean

NSS Cave Conservancies:

1. Are not Internal Organizations of the NSS, by virtue of this designation. A conservancy could also apply to become an Internal Organization of the NSS. That process is done by a committee in a different department and has different set criteria. Refer to the Board of Governors Manual for details.

2. Do not pay dues to the NSS. Conservancies could become institutional members, (see that explanation later).

3. Does not receive a subscription to NSS News and Journal. The individuals officers of the conservancy who are NSS members receive these publications.

4. Are not required to file an annual report. However, Cave Conservancies are encourages to send a copy of any significant publication to the Cave Conservancies Committee, and the NSS Library. Other communication with the Committee is welcome.

5. Do not have any liabilities for this affiliation with the NSS. Liability is generally limited to officers, board members and some times staff or other leaders of incorporated associations A long standing legal principle in the United Stated holds that members and loosely affiliated organizations are not liable in any way for action taken by an organization with which they are affiliated.

Institutional Membership

Cave Conservancies may wish to become institutional members of the NSS.

Requirements

Annual payment of dues of $60

Agree with the purposes of the NSS

Advantages

Receive the NSS News and Journal

Receive other benefits of NSS membership, such as meetings of cave conservancies and land trusts.

Have convenient and low cost access to communication with NSS members.

Are provided services by the Cave Conservancies Committee as mutually agreed by the Committee and the Cave Conservancy.

May give up institutional membership at any time.

Institutional Cave Conservancies Members of the NSS

Are not internal organizations of the NSS.

Are not required to file an annual report.

Do not have any liabilities for this affiliation with the NSS.

To become an institutional member of the NSS compete an application form and send it with a check for $60 to the NSS office, 2813 Cave Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35810-4431.

Proposed Cave Conservancies Committee Mission Statement

I. Mission

A. To serve as an outreach committee of the NSS to cave conservancies and land trusts

B. To assist cave conservancies and land trusts with caves and karst management and to better utilize the expertise of the NSS and its members

C. Provide a convenient and economical means for conservancies and land trusts to affiliate with the NSS

D. Provide a means of communication between the NSS and cave conservancies and land trusts

E. To encourage cave owners to cooperate in establishing conservancies and land trusts

F. To encourage NSS members to actively form conservancies and land trusts in order to better manage cave and karst areas

G. To encourage all appropriate U.S. governmental and state agencies to actively form volunteer cave management bodies similar in nature conservancies and land trusts in order to better manage publicly held cave and karst areas

H. To encourage all appropriate conservancies or land trusts to affiliate with the NSS as an NSS Conservancy

I. To encourage the active NSS conservancies to affiliate with the NSS additionally through some type of membership

J. To otherwise promote the purposes of the NSS through the advancement of cave conservancies and land trusts.

II. Examples of the type of organizations that should be eligible for conservancy status:

A. Cave conservancies, organizations of cavers, cave-interested people, or environmentally interested people who manage caves though ownership, lease, rent or contract

B. Land trusts that are established to conserve caves

C. Land trusts that own caves incidental to their primary land trust mission

D. Chapters of the above

E. U.S. governmental and state agencies with volunteer cave management bodies similar in nature to cave conservancies and land trusts.

III. Examples of the type of services the committee could provide to conservancies and land trusts:

A. Refer to the appropriate NSS member or committee for cave management expertise and workers any of the following areas

1. Cave rescue

2. Cave conservation

3. Cave resource study and evaluation (geological, biological, hydrological, etc.)

4. Cave protection laws

5. General cave knowledge

6. NSS library and cave publications

7. Cave photography

8. Cave mapping and exploration

B. Access to information and answers to questions in any of the above areas

C. Facilitate an ongoing working relationship with the NSS

 

Contemporary Cave Use Study Committee

Garrett Czmor (Chairman)
Star Route Box 24
Huntingdon, PA 16652

(814) 643-3067

gccaver@vicon.net

Plans

After going through some damage control, I'm now better prepared to handle some of the problems that have come up at times with the CCUS. My plan is to continue with previous set goals stated in my last "3-P" report. Also, to bring back into the program many participants who simply dropped out over a year ago and have a better system to identify caves under the CCUS program. I've listed this and others below.

1) Have announcement printed in NSS NEWS, telling members who and how to contact.

2) Mass-mailing to all grottos, regions and past CCUS regional directors.

3) Slight revision of CCUS software manual.

4) Revision of CCUS order form.

5) Create and print a CCUS Project Attendant's Manual.

6) Create a ID code system for caves in the CCUS.

7) Create a register attendant's directory

8) Separating controlled cave access data from regular open cave data.

9) Reprinting of register book covers.

10) Have ready additional register canisters as needed.

11) Create CCUS web site.

12) Create CCUS logo.

13) Data results mailed out yearly to each CCUS partcipant.

14) Update CCUS participants with listing of those currently in the program.

15)Try and get all 1996 data located and entered into computer system.

Progress

(Note: Item numbers in Plans corresponds to item numbers in Progress)

1) Done

2) Done

3) Done

4) Done

5) Done (May have another version edited for next year).

6) Done

7) Done

8) No progress yet.

9) Some reprinting has been done.

10) Should have enough PVC materials to handle most requests this year.

11) No progress yet.

12) No progress yet

13) Tentative date: Feb. 1998

14) Done

15) In progress.

Problems

Locating past CCUS data either on computer disk or book form. Apparently, many are still sending old used books to Huntsville. Just when I think I have most of the needed 1996 data, then pops up another book or even an older one. I've tried to clear this problem up in the new manual that is printed.

A few past CCUS participants have quit the program and have offered to send back register containers no longer in use. I never seem to get them! Also, that word "secrecy" has surfaced once when a Missouri caver felt that the NSS/CCUS might be giving away location descriptions. Ironically, the caves he worried about is on Government or state land. I was able to convince him that the CCUS IS NOT a cave location database.

Difficult to produce 6" PVC register canisters because of cost factors. John Wilson sent me previously a few 6" aluminum canisters which I had to have modified. Apparently these are not available either since John had purchased these years ago from a military auction. I will keep a few 6" inch types (PVC) on hand but will discourage use of these as the 4" will suffice in most cases.

Comments

If I'm to assume correctly, the CCUS had a budget of $1337.00 available for costs. So far, $414.06 has been used and another request of about $92.00 will be made soon. I'm holding costs down but anticipate higher costs for 1998 when much reprinting will have to be done. Apparently, CCUS participation had dropped in the last two years for various reasons but seems to be coming back to life. Currently (along with myself), there are 4 computer database operators available, one canister builder, (all volunteers). There are about 40 caves and 10 participants in the program, ranging from western, central and eastern United States. More requests have been arriving, so these numbers will no doubt go up in the future.

Land Owner Relations Committee

Bill Thoman (Chairman)
4905 Ralph Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45328-3801

(513) 251-7357

speleo@juno.com

Plans

I have contacted several high profile cavers asking for their comments and mind set on Land Owner Relations. I hope to share some of this with NSS Members through the NEWS. I am going to try to update a flyer that used to be part of the caving information series - PRC7201. It is titled "The Human Side" (Cave Owner Relationships). The committee blurb in the NSS Members Manual has stated this publication is available from the NSS Office. It is NOT available from the office, but I have copies I would be willing to send to anyone who needs one. It's pretty old, but beats nothing. The listing in the Members Manual about this publication is my fault. I should have updated the committee version some time ago, but honestly didn't think of it. It will be changed for the next printing.

Progress

The survey results (highlights) were printed in the NSS News along with some of my own views. The article as much as anything was intended to provoke a response. Part of my reason for doing this was the number of people who ran for a NSS office who listed land owner relations as something important. I figured candidates did this because so many people were concerned. What I find baffling is that I have not received one response to my article in the News. I will continue to put things in the News and try to keep this ever important issue in front of people. My next article should be going to the News in a week or so.

Problems

Apathy. Land Owner Relations isn’t sexy, slick or new. It is something akin to mapping a five mile long crawl way. It’s long and slow, but if you persist, the results are quite rewarding. Most of my caving contacts are east of the Mississippi. I need some good contacts for people in the west who would be willing to share their experiences with land owners, both private and public.

NSS Cave Preserves Committee

Gary Bush (Chairman)
2630 Stonegate Dr.
Jacksonville, FL 32223-0702

(904) 268-7638

gbush@jaxnet.com

I. GENERAL:

The Preserve Manager reports I've received to date are attached, for the record. As is my custom, I've also summarized the status of each property in Section II of this report.

No significant events have occurred with the COMC since the last report in May. A suggested Preserve Managers meeting at the NSS Convention didn't take place as only 2 managers and I were in Missouri. We'll try again in Tennessee in 1998.

Plans

On Sept. 27 - 30th, I'll be attending the Land Trust Alliance Rally in Savannah, GA, as the NSS representative. I'll report on the meeting in January.

Progress

All Preserves seem to be in good order at this time.

Problems

As noted in Emily's report attached below, the lawyers have not progressed further with Neil Baumann's suit against the NSS. Further action is up to Mr. Baumann.

II. PROPERTY STATUS: (See attached reports for more details)

1. McFails Cave (NY): Fall projects are scheduled, including replacement of the Hall's gate. Nine trips totaling 92 people were taken this period.

2. Shelta Cave (AL): (No Report)

3.

4. Kingston Saltpeter Cave Preserve (GA): (No Report)

5. Barton Hill Karst Preserve (NY): There have been 27 trips (with 163 visitors) into the cave this summer. Work projects are scheduled on the cabin and the property.

6. Warrens Cave (FL): (No Report)

7. Donald R. Russell Cave Preserve (OK): (No Report)

8. Schoharie Caverns (NY): Activities are humming. A new porch was added to the cabin. A drainage pipe that controls water level in the cave was cleared of blockage. A dedication ceremony to install the newly obtained plaque honoring Jim Gage and Russ Gurnee is planned for Nov. 9th at the cave. The 2nd annual guided tour for local residents was held on Sept. 21st as a community event.

9. Alachua Sinks (FL): Very low visitation into the cave due to the poor visibility during the summer months. Acceptance of new guides and work projects are to be discussed at the October staff meeting.

III. CONSERVANCIES:

I continue to receive the newsletter from the Indiana Karst Conservancy. I also receive the newsletter of the Southeast Cave Conservancy, although they are not yet an NSS Conservancy (John Wilson please take note).

AVP note: The Southeast Cave Conservancy has joined the NSS as an Institutional Member. Now that we have a Conservancies Committee, I’d urge the NSS Conservancies to send their reports to John Wilson, Chair of this Committee.

Attachments from NSS Cave Preserves

McFails Cave Preserve Summer Report 1997 (Emily Davis Mobley)

There is a fair amount of work that needs to be done on the property this fall and winter. The catch basin needs cleaning and logs need to be moved far away from the drainage area. The new gate has still not been installed in Hall's hole. We are working on all of these projects and hope to complete them by snow fall. Special thanks to Chuck Porter, Tom Rider, and crew for removing logs from the cave that could have damaged formations in the spring floods next year had they been left in. Thanks to Mike Warner for taking care of lawn mowing and permits while I was on the road this summer.

Note: On Sept. 13 and 20 Art Palmer led hydrology field trips to the property to illustrate sinkholes and sinking streams. There were 10 people on the 13th and 40 people on the 20th from a national meeting of the Sigma Gamma Epsilon National Honor Society of the Earth Sciences.

Shelta Cave Report for Sept. 1997

No Report Received

John Guilday Preserve Report for Sept. 1997 (Dave West)

Visitation remains at its normally high levels. With the re-activation of the CCUS project, CCUS registers have again been placed in the three major caves (Trout, New Trout, and Hamilton) on the property. Servicing of the register in NSS Flood Cave indicates that the closure there is being complied with. At least anyone that might have violated it wasn't so silly as to sign the register. The annual "Conservacation" is scheduled for November 1. Planned work includes trail maintenance, graffiti and trash removal. Some maintenance will soon be required on the information kiosk, which took a hit from falling rock. Damage is minimal, but will require some repair, probably next year. When it is appropriate, need to budget about $100.00 for this.

These reports used to go to the BOG verbatim. I gather they are now being "filtered", and combined into one report submitted by you. I understand this is probably at the request of the BOG. It seems a shame to be less "in touch" with the BOG , but I guess this may reduce their inclination to micro-manage.

Chairman’s Note: Dave was informed this wasn't the case.

AVP Note: Definitely not the case.

Kingston Saltpeter Cave Preserve Report for Sept. 1997

No Report Received

Barton Hill Karst Preserve Report for Sept. 1997 (Emily Davis Mobley)

All is quiet on the hill. The NSS lawyer has been playing phone tag with the Bauman's lawyer. So no news on that front. The Niagara Frontier Grotto cleared several large hardwood trees from the road and dragged them out to Sheldon Rd. These trees were traded to Semour Vanderveen for wood for the Schoharie Cabin porch.

Boston Grotto will be making major repairs and some weather proofing to the Gage property cabin on Oct. 18. The Boston Grotto will be supplying all wood, stain and labor for the project.

Special thanks this summer to Josh Rubinstein and Mike Warner who had to take care of almost everything having to do with the property while I was constantly on the road.

Warren Cave Quarterly Report for Sept. 1997

(William Oldacre)

Trips into Warren's average about two per weekend with no serious exploration activity in the works. There have been no accidents and no important developments outside the cave which will affect it in any way. Trespassing seems almost non-existent these days. For planning purposes, I will soon be making a request to the NSS for funds to print more release forms (I do this for about one cent per page, please see earlier reports for technique). This request will be in the neighborhood of $40 and a receipt will be provided (I'll pay the initial cost). If funding is a problem, I'll drum up some funds from local donations. Please advise if this will help.

Recently, a new rope has been requested for the "second drop" in Warren's. The old rope, donated by the Florida Speleological Society, has developed a fray. This rope is used mainly as a hand line, but some have used it for belaying or even for rappel. I have an offer by a regular visitor to the cave to donate a rope, so this will not result in any request for funds. Still, there is some debate whether to maintain a standing line at this location at all. Basically, it's an easy upward climb for a distance of about 40 feet with many footholds cut into a sloping wall. Some chimneying is also required. The rope is useful as a "self belay" using a prussik or climbing hardware for the first person up. Thereafter, cavers usually use the rope they've brought with them. I would like some guidance here. What is the current NSS policy on leaving ropes "permanently" rigged in NSS caves?

My inclination is to always try to err on the side of safety. Some years ago, a visiting Wisconsin caver took a partial fall when he failed to rig into this rope and used no belay (a violation of the rules: everyone must be belayed while climbing in Warrens, no exceptions). The injuries were only bruises. One argument I hear frequently is that someone might rely on it without realizing that it had been damaged somehow. That seems possible. However, actual experience indicates that the minute even a small fray appears a chorus of reports bring it to my attention.

My present feeling is that leaving a rope in that position is much more likely to prevent an accident than cause one. Still, if anyone in cave management has a opinion on this I would appreciate hearing it.

Donald R. Russell Preserve Report for Sept. 1997

No Report Received

Schoharie Caverns Preserve Report for Sept. 1997 (Bob Addis)

Activities at the Schoharie Caverns Preserve through 1997 continue at a normal pace with little change.

Highlights include:

1. Clearing blockage out of the culvert drainpipe and subsequent lowering of the water level in the first 500 feet of the cave. Since 1965, there has been 300 feet of 30 inch pipe that served as a drain to the cave. Recently the pipe became blocked and this summer members of the Niagara Frontier Grotto spent 5 days in the pipe clearing it with assistance from members of the Helderberg Hudson Grotto, the local group. With the lowered water level trips are much more pleasant in the cave (knee deep opposed to waist deep entry in 43 degree water!), and we do not think that this will affect the cave environment. Nor will hordes of vandals be drawn to the cave, based on past experience. The work is not completed, and NFG has promised a debris catcher and sluice gate to be added to provide the flooding feature if we think that we need it. Also, several cubic yards of sediment need to be removed from the entrance area to prevent silting of the pipe again. Hopefully both items will be completed this Fall.

2. The first half of the Grand Porch for the Cabin was constructed on Sept. 6 with the help of 4 volunteers. In a brilliant (lucky?) move, we traded hardwood logs cleared from the Barton Hill Karst Preserve road for a double amount of rough cut softwood lumber. This was with our friendly farmer neighbor, Seymour Vanderveen, who even loaded and loaned us his truck.

3. The Fall is our busy season for caving in the Northeast, and we have already received compliments on the new porch. NFG cut the hardwood; Mike Warner (NY) and Vince Kappler (NJ) stained it and did a day's worth of finishing details on the Cabin. The half porch was built with $44 of hardware.

4. Pete Teresco, Cabin Registrar, has received the metal plaque honoring Jim Gage and Russ Gurnee, the two old time NE cavers that made the Schoharie Caverns Preserve a reality. Cost is about $330 and that will come from a special sub-fund of donations and a NSS matching grant. Pete and I have decided out of three choices the best installation place will be bolted directly over the cave entrance, and efforts are underway to finish this before the NSS BOG and NSF meetings on Nov. 7-9, 1997. We will have a dedication ceremony on Nov. 9, hoping that Sally Gage and Jeanne Gurnee as well as other Foundation members who knew these men will be able to attend.

5. Sept.21 saw our second annual guided tours of Schoharie Caverns with the Gallupville Nature Center. About 25 local citizens participated, making this a valuable interaction in the community. From the educational aspect, this is an important function. We continue to have a few joint events each year with them, and they offer us use of their building. Hot chocolate and cookies were available after the trip -these folks really know how to cave!

6. The Fall is our busy season, as I mentioned before, and continuing usage of the Preserve and Cabin is our mission. Donations (unsolicited, we hasten to say) remain at an all time high, indicating we must be doing something right. The money is periodically forwarded to the NSS Office for depositing in our fund.

Alachua Sinks Cave Report for Sept. 1997 (Jim C. Taylor)

It has been quiet around Alachua Sink this summer, there have been no recorded dives this quarter. Water conditions in the basin of the sink from May until October are characteristically poor with visibility less than three feet and water temperatures in the eighties. This basin is also down stream from a 1700 acre cattle farm which greatly increases the opportunity for those ear infections divers try to avoid. Presently we have no serious concerns, we keep the property and the adjacent properties clean of trash and debris. The land that was clear cut next to the sink is quickly returning to wilderness, though the old cypress will never return. That property is still for sale. Though diving is seasonal and limited to a relative few advanced divers, it is a wonderful thing that we have preserved some of the most beautiful land anywhere for people to enjoy.

We have an Alachua Sink meeting scheduled for October 13th, 7:30 pm at Sonny's next to the sink. On the agenda are the following items: Status of the 'pending guides', dates for work days to continue development of the new access area, and the need for a fence and gate. We are predicting great diving for this fall and winter. If you need additional information please call me. I have another evening number, 352-955-5937, or contact me at the E-mail address.

Conservation Division

David H. Jagnow (Chief)
1300 Iris St., #103
Los Alamos, NM 87554-3140

(505) 662-0553

djagnow@roadrunner.com

Conservation Committee

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)

Ron Kerbo (Underground Wilderness Subcommittee)

Al Krause (Conservation Grants Coordinator)

Don McFarlane (Fauna Protection Coordinator)

Dianna Polidori (Conservation Task Force Sub.)

John Scheltens (NSS Federal Liaison) (Formerly Gov't Affairs)

Jim Werker & Val Hildreth-Werker (Resource Preservation Sub.)

Rob Stitt (Conservation & Management Section Chairman)

Plans

I plan to write occasional columns for the NSS News, entitled Conservation Action. I am also making plans to push legislation to make it illegal to sell/trade speleothems nationally and internationally (similar to the ban on sale/trade of ivory).

Progress

USFS (NM & AZ) Cave Fee Demonstration:

During the Sullivan Convention, the Board of Governors unanimously approved the following resolution: "The NSS opposes the use of the federally managed undeveloped caves as a focus of fee demonstration projects. The NSS supports a more constructive alternative to cave entry fees; utilizing existing caver volunteers to assist in the management of cave resources as stated in our MOUs." On August 15, 1997, we finally received the long-awaited "Business Plan" from USFS Region 3 proposing a cave fee demo program in Lincoln (NM) and Coronado (AZ) National Forests. The plan was poorly written and poorly justified, triggering a flood of strong protest letters from the cavers, from Dave Luckins, and from the National Park Service. On September 19, 1997, the end of the public comment period, Johnny Wilson called Jagnow and Keeler to announce that Jose Martinez, Forest Supervisor, had decided to "indefinitely postpone the decision on cave fees" and actively start talking with the cavers concerning how best to manage these cave resources. We welcome the opportunity to work closely with the Forest Service on these issues. In depth talks are forthcoming.

Washington DC Trip

On August 18, 1997, Janet Thorne and David Jagnow had meetings in Washington DC with the NPS, BLM, and USFS, as well as all the New Mexico congressional offices. We discussed cave fees, the Doe Run lead mining threat to Ozark caves, and the planned National Cave and Karst Research Institute with these agencies. We were invited to DC to specifically to discuss the cave fee issue with Lyle Laverty, USFS Director of Recreation, but we covered numerous other issues along the way. It was a very beneficial trip that helped make a difference in later negotiations.

Lead Mining Threatens Ozark Caves

At the June 27, 1997 BOG meeting, the NSS BOG voted unanimously to support the adoption of Alternatives H or I of the USFS-BLM Environmental Assessment concerning exploratory drilling for lead mining in Missouri. A letter stating the NSS’ position concerning this drilling was sent by President Dave Luckins to the US Forest Service.

Letters from cavers on this issue have really helped focus public and federal attention on our concerns. The USFS assured us that they are 100% certain that NO prospecting permit will be issued without first doing an EIS or EA. The NPS expressed the concern that the exploratory permit may imply compensable rights, and that the BLM has written the regulations, NOT the USFS. NPS is also trying to determine if their authority reaches beyond Park boundaries. The BLM expertise on this issue was out of town that day, but is seems clear that the lead mining issues will be settled in the courts in the near future. There appears to be little more the cavers can do at this time. Thanks for your letters!--It made a difference!

As of September 26, 1997, the USFS had not issued an official position on the lead mining EA. This is now expected in mid-October.

Speleothem Conservation

The sale of speleothems is an ongoing problem. Carol Hill and I have compiled 2 slide shows containing about 60 of the most spectacular cave minerals/speleothems from Cave Minerals of the World (2). We have a draft of the slide show script, and now need additional slides showing the destruction of these cave resources. At the International Congress of Speleology, Carol Hill formed a new UIS Commission on Cave Mineralogy with 10 working groups, including "Protection of caves and mine-cave minerals by legislative action". Participants in these working groups are from Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, China, France, Great Britain, Hungary, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, USA, and Venezuela. Philippe Axell (Belgium) has volunteered to chair this working group on Speleothem Conservation/ Legislation. 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. Any international ban on the sale or trade of speleothems will take years to establish.

National Cave Specialists

The USFS and NPS both have National Cave Specialists with substantial caving experience. BLM has decided that Jinx Fox is the National Cave Specialist, even though she has essentially no experience. I am encouraging the BLM to reconsider this decision.

Shelta Cave

(Report by Paul J. Meyer, Conservation Chair, Huntsville Grotto)

Studies in Shelta cave continue. Typically 2-3 members of HSV Grotto conduct these trips. Cave biota numbers while fluctuating have been somewhat consistent on most trips. Trips are conducted typically twice weekly. We are stepping up our bat monitoring efforts in the hope of catching the migration of gray bats. Mr. John Cooper was contacted (he did the seminal work in Shelta cave) he is encouraged by the numbers of crayfish and fish we find in the cave just by observation and no baiting. Successful meetings were held with the Fish and Wildlife folks.

Several caves were visited in addition to Shelta. The F&W people were shown the blind cave shrimp in Bobcat cave (The first time I have seen them as well). We still have not found any in Shelta. While they were here, we obtained the best video ever of the blind cave shrimp. Several gravid (pregnant) females were observed in Bobcat Cave and were captured on videotape. Other discussions ensued regarding protecting the ground water system at Hering cave. If we can show that the Gray bat is in Shelta cave, F&W may entertain the idea of funding the re-gating of the cave. F&W were most impressed with the "Living on Karst" document published by Richmond Area Speleological Society, and were to have contacted them regarding potential reutilization of portions of the document.

Dr. Robin Cooper from the University of Kentucky visited us and Shelta Cave and Limrock Blowing Cave. He is conducting studies of the nervous systems of crayfish species in order to understand human nervous systems. Interactions of blind crayfish and fish were conducted and videotaped in both Shelta and Limrock Blowing caves. He and his graduate student were quite excited. Robin is an member of the NSS, and we have given him points of contact in Knoxville in order that he may conduct the majority of his studies in caves which are in close proximity to himself. He would like to return to Shelta at least one more time.

A proposal was written to NASA in the amount of $25,000 in order to obtain water depth and temperature measurements from Shelta cave. A formal proposal briefing was presented. Results of the proposal review process should be forthcoming in the next 6 weeks.

The Legacy proposal "Bats, Bugs, and Barometers" was not funded. We believe this was more political than anything as the office staff really liked the proposal. We are getting our ducks in a row and looking at other funding opportunities and are attempting to align our thoughts more with Project Underground. We have had contacts with Carol Zokaites - Joan Morris may become the PU program facilitator for Alabama.

Camille Duke (NSS Office Manager) contacted Paul Meyer and other members of the HSV Grotto conservation committee to attend a rezoning meeting in Huntsville. This potential property rezoning would allow stores and a fuel station to be built no more than 1/2 mile north of Shelta Cave. Paul briefly expressed the concerns of the Society regarding groundwater contamination of Shelta, and the concern about the endangered species which may inhabit the cave. The planning commission denied the rezoning request for the property, but the land owner has the right to appeal to the city council and the court system. The HSV Grotto plans on assembling a brief written statement for the NSS expressing our concerns in a formal manner. We anticipate quoting the endangered species act, adding as an attachment a copy of the Alabama cave law, and perhaps obtaining a letter from the regional F&W office. We also plan to inform them that a gas station is acceptable if it meets extremely stringent guidelines (dual wall tanks, seismic proof and leak proof moats, appropriate alarm systems in the event of leaks etc.)

Problems

I have not had time to write a chapter on cave conservation for the American Geological Institute (AGI) Karst Primer, "Living On Karst." I have turned this responsibility over to others.

My CTF Coordinator, Dianna Polidori, is out of communications and I may need to find a replacement.

 

CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR (David A. Ek, Chair)

Plans

Due to the problems described below, I feel that this effort should be put on hold. In the meanwhile efforts to improve the relationship between cavers and federal cave managers should be given a priority.

Progress

As indicated during the last two reports, the number of cavers completing the cave volunteer data form was much below expectations. During this last progress reporting period, I attempted to assert the reason for the lack of interest in this project. I recently received some feedback that indicated at least some of the reasons for the lack of interest in the national cave conservation volunteer database. These reasons are explained in the "Problems" section.

Problems

I've been able to assert at least eight reasons for the lack of interest in this effort:

1. Since the letter of introduction, and data form, was in the middle of the NSS News, some people missed it.

2. The data form was printed in the magazine, and some were unwilling to cut a page out of the NSS News, since they save the magazine.

3. Access to a photocopy machine was also difficult.

4. After the recent demographics questionnaire, some were tired of questionnaires and data forms.

5. Some saw it as just a demographics-oriented exercise with little practical use.

6. Some saw no need for national coordination, but would rather keep it local or regional.

7. Many cavers are already on several lists, mail lists, and databases, and did not want to be bothered to be on another.

8. Cavers' trust in federal agencies is at nearly an all-time low.

Many thought that such an effort to assist federal agencies was inappropriate considering at this time. Also, my letter of introduction mentioned 'trusting federal agencies', however, federal agencies have apparently not been trusting cavers. As one caver noted, 'it was too much to swallow'.

Some federal cave managers saw little need for such an effort.

In light of this lack of interest in this effort, coupled with the recent "trust" problems, I feel that this effort is coming at a bad time. Possibly at some point in the future, the situation will be more conducive for such a project.

UNDERGROUND WILDERNESS SUBCOMMITTEE (Ron Kerbo, Chair)

(No report received)

CONSERVATION GRANTS SUBCOMMITTEE (Albert A. Krause, Chair)

Plans

No change.

Progress

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 nor have any applications or grant inquiries been received since May of 1997.

No Conservation Research Grants have been awarded thus far. A balance of $500.00 remains available. The sole application pending was returned for additional information four months ago and nothing has been heard since.

CONSERVATION GRANTS AWARDED TO DATE:

$500.00 Conservation Grant to:

Dr. Hillary L. Hopper (NSS 36757), Chairman Sloan's Valley Conservation Task Force, 1858 Marlboro Drive, Lexington, KY 40505

Purpose: To support administrative costs associated with the development and production of a bio-sphere management plan for portions of the Sloan's Valley, Kentucky, Cave System and adjacent lands and research into the historic use of the Sloan's Valley Cave System environs.

Background: The Sloan's 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. 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.

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 forward from last report.)

FAUNA PROTECTION SUBCOMMITTEE (Don McFarlane, Chairman)

Plans

No Change.

Progress

Little activity. Half a dozen public enquiries regarding bat house plans. I have a student working on a bat house plans website that should take care of this need. US Fish and Wildlife Service call for comments on the proposed listing of the Illinois Cave amphipod received and general comments submitted, with statement of NSS support for conservation efforts directed at cave species.

Problems

None.

RESOURCE PRESERVATION SUBCOMMITTEE (Val & Jim Werker, Co-Chairs)

Plans

CONVENTION -- Arrangements are being made with the 1998 NSS Convention for scheduling the conservation, ethics, and restoration techniques workshop.

Progress

Book -- Work is progressing for the NSS publication, Techniques for Cave Conservation, Ethics, and Restoration. We have received draft outlines for the book. The schedule has been sent to contributors. Meanwhile, we continue to seek resources and information on techniques used across the country.

Video -- Plans have been initiated for making a professional video addressing cave conservation, safety, and ethics. The production is being designed to use as a companion piece with the NSS/NOLS/interagency brochure entitled, Caves...Conservation & Ethics.

Team members include representatives from the NSS, NOLS, BLM, NPS, and USDAFS. Work is progressing very slowly because key team members have been absorbed by other cave-related issues and projects.

Display -- The Resource Preservation Subcommittee has developed a display addressing restoration techniques. The exhibit is finished and the Forest Service is responsible for transporting it to the National Karst and Cave Management Symposium in Bellingham, Washington, October 7-10. It is currently on display at Sunspot in New Mexico.

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.

Slide show -- 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.

Workshops/Projects -- Restoration projects continue in Lechuguilla Cave. We led six expeditions in 1996, and have done three of the four scheduled for 1997. 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 will be presenting a paper on Microbial Preservation, Trail Definition and Restoration in Lechuguilla at the National Cave Management Symposium in Washington, October 1997.

NSS News -- We will continue to submit articles and announcements to the NSS News.

Cave Fees -- We urge every NSS member, grotto, and section to send Congressional Inquiries and put focus on cave fee and cave conservation issues in the political arena. Comments on the USDA Forest Service Fee Demo Plan will continue to be useful, even after September 19, 1997. Please send copies of your letters and inquiries for archiving to: werks@worldnet.att.net

Problems

None

FEDERAL LIAISON SUBCOMMITTEE (John Scheltens, Chairman)

PROGRESS: (John Scheltens has just been appointed to this position, replacing Janet Thorne as Government Affairs Coordinator. Very special thanks go to Janet Thorne who has served in this important position for many years! Janet and John Scheltens were instrumental in guiding the Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1988. John Scheltens is in the Washington DC area every month, and should be contacted if you wish him to discuss various issues at the national level. (David Jagnow)

AVP note: There will be a motion on the agenda to make this a Committee in the President’s Department with Scheltens as Chair. This would replace the existing NSS/NPS Liason Committee, of which Scheltens is currently Chair, and would enlarge its scope.

CONSERVATION TASK FORCE SUBCOMMITTEE (Dianna Polidori) (No Report)

Vandalism Deterrence Reward Commission

Jay R. Jorden (Acting Chairman)
11201 County Road 132
Celina TX 75009-2527

(214) 382-2458

jjorden@texoma.net

Plans

At the invitation of Doug Medville, I have accepted the job of Acting Chair of CVDRC following the resignation of Chris Hacker. I had noted inactivity within the organization since John Wilson’s tenure had passed and want its presence to continue even as a search is mounted for a permanent Chair. Plans include publicizing the Commission’s system of vandalism deterrence rewards to related agencies, groups, and their publications.

Progress

I’d like work to continue within the framework of a Commission, which gives added authority to the group’s work. The Commission has a big job that spans interagency lines.

Thus the need exists for an organizational structure that is broader than NSS Committee status.

Problems

It would be advantageous to see some of the correspondence or other materials generated by the Commission since John’s tenure. Does it exist? I’d like to be up to speed for the task.

AVP Note: Members of this Commission have provided material in response to inquiries made about reward procedures as a result of two cave vandalism occurrences during this reporting period. To the credit of its Commissioners, this Commission has been functioning in the absence of an active Chairman. With the nomination and confirmation of a replacement Chair and with the filling of an existing vacancy for a Commissioner, I hope that the Commission will return to its former level of activity.

Cave Conservation and Management Section

Robert R. Stitt
1417 9^th Ave. W.
Seattle, WA 98119-3224

(206) 283-2283

rstitt@halcyon.com

The Cave Conservation and Management Section has been preoccupied by preparations for the 1997 Karst and Cave Management Symposium (13^th National Cave Management Symposium). Two issues of the Cave Conservationist are in the computer and waiting for time to become available to finish the formatting. Enough material is probably accumulated to put out two more issues, which should almost catch us up.

The Section Web Page has had about 1,000 hits since May 15 of this year; a significant increase over prior periods. This is because it got indirectly linked to a CNN article link. Normally the page is not publicized. Work has been proceeding slowly to get the web site remodeled and moved to the NSS web site. This will not take place until after the Cave Management Symposium is completed. The page has been upgraded about twice a month with relevant materials submitted by Dave Jagnow and others.

Education Division

Hazel E. Medville (Chief)
11762 Indian Ridge Rd.
Reston, VA 20191

(703) 860-0134

medville@patriot.net

Progress

Most of the Committees in this Division are functioning as expected.

Plans

A discussion is being held within the Education Division about a need for the NSS providing more caver education in the cave sciences, conservation, and other areas. I expect there to be some resolution as to where it would be appropriate to place this activity (e.g., a new Committee vs. expanding the Environmental Education Committee) by the March 1998 BOG meeting. If a new Committee is suggested and approved by the BOG, the position of Committee Chairman will be advertised in the NSS News.

Problems

The Chairman of the Educational Opportunities in Speleology has been unresponsive to requests for progress reports for some time.

Educational Opportunities Committee

Steve Stokowski (Chairman)
10 Clark Street
Ashland, MA 01721-2145

(508) 881-6364

caversteve@aol.com

(No Report received)

Environmental Education Committee

Barbara L. Moss (Chairman)
7713 Shreve Rd.
Falls Church, VA 22043-3315

(703) 573-1068

ke4bvq@amsat.org

Chair's Comments:

I received many requests for information on Project Underground, and other US educational activities when I was at the UIS in Switzerland, in August. Information packets are being prepared to send to the addresses I was given. More information. later as I receive minutes from their children and speleology meeting, held on the day we started our return voyage to the US.

Progress

USGS Packet- No word at this time as to release date of the packet. (It is expected any day according to USGS staff.)

Project Underground- Carol Zokaites will have a written summary of activities by the Board meeting in November. This should include results from the Convention workshop.

Many educators at the Convention were interested in starting an education section. That project is still in the draft stage.

Continuing to respond to letters sent by teachers and students to the NSS office

Plans

The 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.

Attachment to Environmental Education Committee Report

Report on Project Underground August 1997

Convention was good for Project Underground. Fifteen people attended the facilitators workshop all day on Wed. everyone liked the workshop and the materials. A very knowledgeable group of people. A workshop is already planned for Sept. in Arkansas from this group.

We had a good board meeting Sunday night in Dave Jagnow's air conditioned cabin. We had a few guests attending and realized everyone was either from Va. or New Mexico. Dave Jagnow will be sending out the minutes to the meeting later on. The New Mexico folks returned home with enough PU guides to do 2 workshops in their area. Looking forward to seeing how these go!

The PU poster display was set up for Monday afternoon and on Tuesday. We received lots of good comments.

I also just talked to lots of people, explaining what our program is. I think we are gaining support as people learn more about us.

Plans

Facilitator training in Southwest Va. in Nov.

Numerous workshops to help with in Virginia.

Fund raising

Start a Project Underground Program in West Virginia

Work on revisions and update to PU Activity Guide

Help with karst education video

Progress

Plans in Virginia are to have a facilitator training in Southwest Virginia either late fall or early winter. I also need to support the facilitators already trained in Virginia with a newsletter and in courage workshops. This goes along with finding some grant money to help fund the workshops.

Aug. 7, I did a 1 hour introduction to PU at an environmental education conference in Scott county. On Aug, 13th I did one in Bridgewater Va. at a similar conference. (Lots of driving!) Terri Brown from the Va. Dept. of Conservation and recreation helped with both of these.

I have been using all the help I can get. A non-profit that organized one of the EE conferences in Va. is offering to help with advertising and registration for workshops. Margot Giesler, a PU facilitator and President of RASS will attend the Karst Management Symposium in Washington State and present Project Underground for us. Margot helped with the development of Project Underground and should do a wonderful job. Due to the amount of time and money needed to attend the Symposium, and talking it over with Ted and Suzie, I decided this was a better option for PU.

A big concern is money. I have been spending time writing some grants and finding some sources to send inquiries to. I need to spend most of my time in the next few months working on grants. I have researched some places to approach and I am working on letters of inquiry and cover letters.

We received a EPA grant for $5,000 to introduce Project Underground to WVA this year. I will begin working on this after OTR on Labor Day weekend.

Matches totaling $1,700 to a Va. Endowment Grant from the Va. Karst project and the Cave Conservancy of the Virginias (CCV) have been okayed. I will not find out if we received the grant until the end of Oct. though. CCV also donated 500 copies of the Living on Karst book, and about 100 posters to Project Underground. The Va. Cave Board is supplying posters on karst groundwater to Va. Teachers. These additional supplies

More Fund raising. When possible workshops are helping to cover costs of materials. The are needed and very helpful to the program.

AR workshop provided $255.00 to cover 15 guides and additional materials. The NSS book store bought 12 guides at $15.00 each. The Scott county EE conference bought $75.00 worth of materials for door prizes. This is not a large amount of money but it helps with expenses like mailing and replacements costs for materials. And with Fund raising comes the work of administering the grants. An evaluation needs to be written for the last EPA grant. Ted has been working on receiving the rest of the funds for the last grant and for the new grant. I think this is a lot of work on Ted's part. Thank-you Ted.

The Activity Guide: On the good side, Eileen O'Mally has agreed to being the editor for the revisions and updates. She works for a Fiber Optics firm, Force Inc., in Christiansburg, doing editing and desk-top publishing. Eileen helped on the '95 convention guidebook and now works with Kim Hansen who did the layout and design for the guidebook. I am very pleased and think Eileen will do a great job.

I will be handing out job assignments to board members to help with the new guide. We have about 6 or 7 lessons in various stages to use in the book. And new ideas are welcome. Just remember they need to be done soon.

On the down side, I am having trouble connecting with Lou Simpson and Diane to get the disks for the guide. Lou's e-mail is not working well these days. Once I get the disk there will still be some problems. The desk top publisher used a Mac format, and a 40 mg SyQuest drive. It was known at the time that this would be make revisions very difficult but the decision was made to use it anyway. I talked to the desk top publisher about this and she said a SyQuest drive was use, which holds more information, since files can not be zipped on a Mac to fit on regular floppies. I will need to find someone, probably a publisher, to transfer the guide from a SyQuest drive to something useful to us and hopefully on to IBM format which we all seem to use. This could become a very big problem, but I am working on it.

Other things: The Va. Karst Project and Terri Brown, of the Va. Dept. Of Conservation and Recreation, is setting up a Karst Video project. The video will be done by Dave Socky, winner of this years NSS video salon. This project will combine VDCR and Va. Cave conservation groups including Project Underground. This will be a great education tool.

I tried to get the Project Underground workshops on the registration forms for the NSS Aug. 1998 convention but by the time I talked to the convention committee in July 1997, 1500 forms had already been printed. They were very nice and said the would add us to the form that goes out in the NSS news. The other forms are the ones sent to all grottoes and interested groups and used at convention itself. This was a big disappointment. This policy makes it very hard to add new workshops to the NSS convention. OTR is this weekend in West Va. For those of you who don' t know, that's where about 2000 cavers get together on Labor Day weekend to party, cave, visit, etc. I am sure I will spend much of my time promoting Project Underground and answering questions. If anyone asks I can usually be found under the VPI tent or along vendors row.

Problems

The disk and format problems with the activity guide as preparations are made for a revision and reprinting.

Not getting on the NSS convention registration form.

National Cave Rescue Commission

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 (Medical Coordinator)*

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)

Nancy Chrimes (Education Board Member/NCRC Seminar Registrar)

Tricia Daugherty (Education Board Member/NCRC Database 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)*

Kathy Welling (NCRC Recording Secretary)*

Vacant (NCRC Inventory Officer)

Vacant (NCRC Financial Officer)

* indicates those submitting information for this report.

Progress

During last summer’s NSS Convention, Amanda Clark was appointed Central Region Coordinator, replacing Mike Summers who provided many years of dedicated service. Amanda is currently busy reorganizing and preparing to present a Weekend Orientation Course to the Cave Research Foundation and any other interested parties at Mammoth Cave in October 1977. Other activities include purchasing equipment to upgrade their gear caches and encouraging local rescue groups to take their call-out and equipment lists to a higher level of organization and completeness so that they may be used more effectively on a regional and national basis.

During last summers NSS Convention, John Appleby, John Punches and Henry Nicholson were re-appointed to three year terms as Eastern Region Coordinator, Pacific Northwest Region Coordinator and Diving Coordinator, respectively. Rick Deel of Houston, TX, and Bryan Lavender of San Bernardino, CA, were appointed to at-large positions on the NCRC Education Board. Jeff Waver of Knoxville, TN, was appointed to lead a team to benchmark training documentation requirements for the NCRC, and Becky Jones of Waverly, TX, was appointed to lead a team to research the publication of technical research by the NCRC.

The Caribbean Region Coordinator, Mimi Ortiz, attended the 12^th International Congress of Speleology - International Cave Rescue Training Course from August 19th to 27th, 1997, in Massif des Bauges, Savoie, France. This course provided an interesting insight into the different ways in which cave rescuers are trained, and exposure to many different techniques, especially self and small party rescue.

While no formal arrangements have been made yet, it appears the National Park Service may consult with the NCRC to train its personnel when it takes over the Oregon Caves National Monument from a commercial operation. Discussions on this matter have taken place between John Punches, the Pacific Northwest Region Coordinator, and the new manager.

Harry Burgess, the South Western Region Coordinator is near completion of a Search and Rescue (SAR) pre-plan for the permitted caves in the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This plan is being forwarded to other interested parties as a guide for developing plans at other national parks. Note: This plan does not include Lechuguillia, which is being considered separately.

John Green, the South Central Region Coordinator, is attempting to bring some standardization to the way in which the counties in Texas respond to a "cry for help" when a cave rescue team is needed. However, which each county free to do whatever it wants, this is a very difficult task. John is also publishing cave rescue resource information in the Texas Caver and via mailings to Caving, Emergency Management and other groups/agencies.

This past summer saw the successful pilot testing of major revisions to the NCRC Levels I, II, III and Instructor Track curriculum. It is expected that this curriculum will be adopted permanently with only minor revisions.

A draft of the NCRC BORC Policies and Procedures manual has been issued and is being reviewed. Missing meeting minutes have been located and hopefully a final draft will be ready for adoption at the 1998 NCRC BORC Winter Business Meeting.

Dr. Samuel Chewning, the NCRC Medical Coordinator, has appointed David Wharton, MD, and Roger Mortimer, MD, to a Medical Advisory Panel.

Rocky Mountain Region coordinator John Gookin has established State Coordinators to help cover the training needs of this very large region. Rodney Mulder has been appointed for Utah and Marc Ohms for South Dakota. Rodney has since conducted a weekend cave rescue workshop and several more are in the works.

Plans

The BORC will conduct its annual Winter Business Meeting on January 31, 1998, at the DuBose Conference Center in Monteagle, TN.

During its 1998 Winter Business Meeting, the NCRC BORC will consider candidates for the positions of: an "at large" member of the NCRC Education Board, and the NCRC Database Manager.

The Eastern Region is preparing to conduct a Basic Orientation Weekend in November 1997, and is tentatively scheduling several for the spring of 1998. They are also planing a regional weeklong June 20 - 28, 1998.

The revision of The Manual of US Cave Rescue Techniques is continuing. The NCRC has partnered with the Eastern Region of the NCRC to review, revise and adopt its regional training manual as the National.

Work is continuing on revising and updating the Levels I, II, III and Instructor Track curriculum, with pilot testing of these revisions scheduled for next summers National Weeklong.

The Caribbean Region is planning a region wide meeting in October 1997 to discuss training needs and to develop plans for public relation activities which will enhance the image of the NCRC in the Caribbean Region, and help the local authorities to realize what a value-add the NCRC can be for their emergency response planning. Additionally, the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) Whitewater Rescue Course will be offered in December in 1997. This is due to the large number of stream/river caves in the region. This training is now considered mandatory for all cavers and cave rescuers in the region.

The South Central Region is planning a Basic Orientation Course for early December 1997 and will assist with cave and high-angle rescue classes offered during the Texas Department of Health Convention that will take place in November 1997.

Harry Burgess is developing a three day training course for park personnel at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Harry is also developing the necessary relationships with the National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management to promote and conduct future NCRC training in the area, with and eye to conducting a weekend course in the winter and a weeklong course next fall.

Site and Instructor preparation are underway for a regional Level I and II Seminar to be conducted in the Southern California area in the Spring of 1998.

Work is proceeding on bid preparation for the National Weeklong in 1999 which is proposed for Lava Beds National Monument, CA. A presentation is expected to take place at the 1998 NCRC BORC Winter Business Meeting.

The NCRC Medical Coordinator, Dr. Sam Chewning, is working with the Davidson College Outdoor Program to develop a Basic Orientation Course for trip leaders.

Work is continuing on the preparations for the 1998 National Weeklong Seminar which will be conducted in Monte Eagle, TN. This seminar will take place the week before the 1998 NSS Convention in Sewanee, TN, which is only fifteen miles away.

The search for an NCRC Financial Officer and NCRC Inventory Officer continues.

Problems

Several weeklong seminars scheduled in the regions have had to be canceled due to low enrollment. Additionally, the attendance at the National Weeklong has been down. This is probably a result of the modularizing of our curriculum and sending it out to the regions. For a while we were conducting several seminars a year in addition to the Nation Weeklong, it appears we have reached a saturation point. Perhaps conducting seminars in areas of the country were we have not been lately, or restricting the number of seminars to be offered each year might help.

Safety and Techniques Committee

William Cuddington (Chairman)
3412 Hutchens Ave., SE
Huntsville, AL 35801

(205) 536-2177

miriambl@aol.com

(Report not received)

Television Video Production Committee

John P. Scheltens (Chairman)
303 North River St.
Hot Springs, SD 57747-1626

(605) 745-4366

102370.2314@compuserve.com

(Report not received)

NSS Convention Division

Carol Tiderman (Chief)
7600 Pindell School Rd.
Fulton, MD 20759-9725
(410) 792-0742

tiderman@erols.com

Progress

I offered unlimited assistance to the 1997 NSS Convention staff at the Missouri convention. I made myself available to answer questions, give guidance in resolving problems and how to keep them transparent to convention attendees, and offered to negotiate with those contracted with for services.

During the Missouri Convention and OTR, I met with officers from future confirmed Conventions and was updated on progress being made. I also asked questions regarding the plans that they were developing. At the NSS Convention in Missouri, I hosted a Convention Development Session for those groups that will be hosting Conventions. This meeting served as a way to transmit "lessons learned" from past Convention staffs to future Convention staffs.

I attended a meeting during OTR to discuss the Convention Software Package, its implementation, and any possible changes that may be required.

Plans

Continue interacting with and assisting confirmed convention groups and subcommittees.

Continue updating Convention Manual from observations, comments from others, and written input.

I am willing to make site visits to those locations planning to submit Convention bids in order to review the facilities under consideration and so that I can be more knowledgeable when asked by the BOG about the suitability of these facilities.

Problems

None at present.

Convention Development Committee

Carol Tiderman (Chairman)
7600 Pindell School Rd.
Fulton, MD 20759-9725

(410) 792-0742

tiderman@erols.com

Progress

At the Missouri Convention, I hosted a Convention Planning Meeting for groups thinking about having an NSS Convention. Several groups are interested in holding Conventions in the future. We had an interesting and informative roundtable discussion and planning materials were distributed to those considering developing a bid.

I’ve received a considerable amount of material to be included in the Convention Planning Guide. If there are no objections, I’d like to rename this the "Convention Manual" since this document contains a lot of material that is helpful in Convention operations (what to do during a Convention) as well as in Convention planning (what to do before the Convention).

Plans

Work with Convention staffs for the 1998, 1999, and 2000 Conventions. Seek bids for NSS Conventions beyond the year 2000.

Problems

Future Convention Treasurers will have to be trained in the use of the Convention registration and scheduling software under development by the Convention Registration Software Committee. Some resistance to using this may be expected. I’ll work with Convention staffs to minimize this problem.

1997 NSS 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

Although a formal report has not been received, progress is being made in the closing out of the books from this Convention. The Convention Treasurer (Debbie Quamen) has indicated that the convention made a small profit.

1998 NSS Convention

William Shrewsbury (Chairman)
PO Box 4444
Chattanooga, TN 37405

(615) 886-3296

taglite@bigfoot.com

Progress

The campground water lines have been located and are going to be tapped into during the November 1st work weekend. All required permits have been obtained. Work will continue on clearing the dead fall from the trees for camping.

The building facilities have been inventoried by Kenneth Huffines and Dan Barnick. Turns out the new Fowler Center gym is too tall for the Vertical Section Workshop, so they will use the smaller gym.

The Fowler Center will be the main focal point on campus. The largest gym will be used for: the Vertical Section contests, the photo salon (we will be able to seat everyone easily for one show), and the banquet. Upstairs will be registration, information (cave & local sites,) the Dixie Dispatch (daily rag) drop-off box, the Dixie Dispatch office, the Photo Salon work office.

The VS Workshop will be in one of the smaller gyms within the building. Showers and bathrooms within the facilities will be open for our use. The pool will be open for our use.

The contract with The University of the South has been spelled out, and is pending signatures. No problems are anticipated with any point in it. No payment is due until 2 months prior to Convention, with the lion's share of the balance due after Convention. This will ease any issues we may have with printing costs, t-shirts, etc.

The questions in the appended minutes have already been answered, most to our favor. The college has been working very well with our needs.

The t-shirt design by Jerry Wallace was well received at this year's Convention in MO. A few are being sent to several caving conferences to bolster Convention advertising. Minor modifications are being made for final printing.

The first Convention announcement has been sent to Dave Bunnell to put in the November NSS News. It will list the Hotels/Motels/B&Bs in the area, as well as a comprehensive list of Chairs. A list of chairs follows the minutes at the end of this document.

Plans

A letter inviting the winner of this year's International Conference video award is being drafted. From reading comments of those who were there, it will be a show to see. We should not have any travel expenses associated with this invitation.

There will be another campground work weekend on November 1st. Tying into the water lines and more tree work is on the agenda. Campus maps will be worked on.

A schedule of tasks immediately before Convention is being built. This should enable us to bring in adequate hands to accomplish everything. Everything else is on schedule.

Problems

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.

All others items have been resolved as of this report. We expect to have the luncheon issue in hand by the end of September.

Attachments to 1998 Convention Committee Report

Convention Staff Meeting at Sewanee, Tennessee on August 2, 1997

Kenneth Huffines- reported that he found new rooms that were not previously available. Library has very nice room for executive functions. Most rooms have screens and blinds on windows. Guerry seats 1025. Blackman seats 219. The banquet space is 164'x218'. It is 32 feet to the rafters. There is some question as to how to hang plastic to cover windows. All elevators are now open access.

Alan Padgett- water lines were found and brush cleaned out. Need to mow and bush hog. Another work day is needed in the fall- November 1? Wm. needs time-line of work to be done by Labor Day. Alan will need help.

Thurs-Sun. before convention.

Deadlines for Bruce for NSS News-

November- registration info; motel info; etc.

March- registration form

April- tourist stuff

May- weather; caving environments

June- program schedule

What if NSS News comes out late? The local newspaper stops publishing at the end of July. Steve mentioned letting the local people know that Lake Cheston will be closed. Avis needs P.R. stuff to be sent out to pre-registered people.

Registration forms need to be sent to local grottos in November- is it possible to send out with the monthly NSS mailing.

Bill Jackson- Checked with local authorities- beer license not needed as long as we do not sell beer. Beer is $67.50 a keg. Does the insurance company cover volunteers to serve the beer? Vendor sponsor list: band, plastic cups, video program.

Bill Stringfellow- How much lead time does Marriott need if they will serve beer? Bill needs budget changes. Send Bill receipts for reimbursement. He needs to know what needs to be pre-paid and when it is due.

91 people are pre-registered at this time.

The local winery will sell wine at the banquet.

Steve Hudson- needs in writing that the road can be closed. Needs a tent for First Aid. Stringfellow will ask about tent used last time. First Aid will sell ice. Needs to borrow Chattanooga Grotto tarp for protection for gate guard. Last time Franklin County loaned a four-wheeler; will need one again. Needs a back-up volunteer to head Security. Bullet money?

Auction- Steve suggested a silent auction. Vendor gets minimum bid and convention keeps the rest.

Volunteer coordinator- who did this in Colorado? Get name to Monty. Will need volunteers for banquet set-up.

Doranne Lane will coordinate JSS events.

Roy Davis would love to host dinner at Cumberland Caverns and historic trip. Maximum is 400.

Field Trips- Marriott will bring the food to the site. Can break even with as few as 45 people per bus.

Howdy Party- A Dogwood City Grotto member is working on booking a band. Want 6-8 serving lines. All price quotes are needed in writing. No contracts will be signed until they are reviewed.

A volunteer is needed for staff laundry.

Gary Schindel- Debbie Johnson will do the program guide. Gary and John Hickman are doing the guidebook. Guidebook layout will be the same. They are looking for feature articles- recent discoveries. Rocky Hanna and Gary will write the geology section. There will be a 10:00 meeting Sunday about the guidebook. Photo are needed.

J.V. will bring maps for the walls at registration.

An updated staff list is needed and an attendance log was signed.

Pros and Cons of Previous Convention(s)

Attitude of staff should be customer service.

2. Communication was lacking.

3. Should have a can do attitude. How can we make this work?

4. Signs are critical. Put up more than you would think you need.

5. Registration sets the attitude for the rest of convention.

6. Soft drinks and cookies at registration are nice.

7. Do not pay up front for services.

8. Volunteers needed with flashlights to light walkways for awards. Steve Hudson volunteered to donate 300-400 headlights or we can borrow a thousand.

9. Award presentations should have a time limit. Let the awards committee chairman know the time limit. The climbing awards are given at a Friday luncheon.

10. Adult supervision is needed for JSS at all times. JSS is asking for cave trip leaders.

11. There were no buses for the second session of the photo salon.

12. T-shirts were unavailable for purchase.

13. The campground was too spread out and it flooded.

14. The banquet was a problem. Seating was bad. People were not let in the building during set-up.

15. It was nice to have the food delivered to the noon session meetings.

16. Ice needs to be vended on campground.

17. Meals needed to be delivered to vendors.

18.Liquor at auction helps with bidding.

19. The caving trips did not have leaders, were disorganized, and didn't leave on time.

20. Winery list was out of date and incorrect.

1998 NSS Convention Job Descriptions

Banquet - Terri Bain

(423) 894-1092 Terri_Bain@providentcompanies.com

Responsible for all arrangements for banquet and for supervising the event at Convention. Must work with chairs of food service, facilities, transportation, registration, and others as necessary. Is also responsible for choosing the banquet speaker.

Campground Committee - Allen Padgett

(706) 638-4144 75313.25@compuserve.com

Responsible for developing the campground; arranging for on-site sanitation, water and electricity; road improvements; and site restoration.

Cave Trip Committee - Bill Bussey

(919) 403-7275 billbus@gte.net

Responsible for pre and post Convention cave trips and for working with landowners in the Convention area; for organizing the pre and post Convention trips and campsites; and for informing the landowners of the nature, dates and scope of Convention activities and working with them to maintain harmonious cave owner relations.

Chairman - Wm Shrewsbury

(423) 886-3296 taglite@bigfoot.com

Responsible for managing committee chairs.

Food Service Committee - Bill Jackson

(706) 863-7019 Bill588716@aol.com

Responsible for working with the University food service and other committee chairs to coordinate all food service needs for Howdy Party, Banquet, luncheons and coffees; making arrangements for daily food service, such as daily meal plans and fast food service.

Geology Field Trip - Alan Cressler

(404) 255-6748 cressler@usgs.gov

Responsible for all logistics, including coordinating transportation, lunch and beverages. Must work with Convention Geologist, food service, transportation, and other committees as necessary.

Housing Facilities - Douglas Durig

(931) 598-1000 ddurig@seraph1.sewanee.edu

Responsible for dormitory accommodations; working with registration committee to make dormitory assignments; seeing that all housing facilities, with the exception of the campground, are adequately stocked and maintained.

Howdy Party - Stan Olekas

(404) 995-9835 cavestan@roman.net

Responsible for all arrangements for Howdy Party and for supervision the event at Convention. Requires coordination with campground, food service, transportation, facilities and other committees as necessary.

Meeting Facilities - Kenneth Huffines

(770) 469-3197 khuffines@mindspring.com

Responsible for the scheduling of all meetings and events; scheduling all section meetings, Board meetings, and other meeting as needed; providing and scheduling space for special events such as the vertical contest; providing all equipment needed by program presenters and special events; and seeing that all meeting facilities, with the exception of the campground, are adequately maintained.

Photo Salon - Dan Barnick

(770) 514-8862 bunchnick@mindspring.com

Responsible for acting as liaison with the Photo Section of the NSS: work with University and Meeting Facilities chair to ensure all audio-visual requirements are met, to schedule auditorium, to provide secure storage for screens and other items that must be shipped early, and to provide any support material that may be needed.

Public Relations - Bruce Smith

(423) 344-4716 102216.1430@compuserve.com

Responsible for working with the media to publicize the Convention; providing material to the NSS News in a timely manner; informing the local community and its businesses of the size and needs of the Convention and its attendees; working with the local and state media.

Publications - Geary Schindel - Main Publications Coordinator

(615) 781-6829 GSchindel@aol.com

(615) 297-0999 hickmanj@telalink.net - John Hickman - Guidebook

(615) 459-7613 Caver39484@aol.com - Debby Johnson - Other Publications

(423) 238-7009 72144.3326@compuserve.com - Butch Feldhaus - Daily Rag

(423) 238-7009 72144.3326@compuserve.com - Mary Beth Feldhaus - Daily Rag

Responsible for Convention Guidebook, Convention program, and daily Convention newsletter; coordinating with vendor committee for the solicitation of advertisements.

Registration Committee - Avis VanSwearingen

(205) 498-2420 avis@mindspring.com

Responsible for handling all aspects of Convention registration; preparing forms and working with the Public Relations committee to arrange for their publication in the NSS News; receiving the registration forms; working with the Convention treasurer to deposit the funds; preparing registration packets; handling on-site registration each day during the Convention.

Secretary - Mary Beth Feldhaus

(423) 238-7009 72144.3326@compuserve.com

Responsible for the taking of minutes at all staff meetings; maintaining copies of all Convention related correspondence and papers; organization of this data for presentation to the NSS at the conclusion of the Convention.

Security Committee - Steve Hudson

(706) 764-2296 shudson@pmi-petzl.com

Responsible for on-site security, coordination of rescue activities working with appropriate agencies; operation of first air center; and arrangements, and protocols for use, of all Convention communications.

Sessions Chair - Pat Kambesis

(770) 491-8587 pkambesis@coca-cola.com

Responsible for coordinating session requests with Publications, Meeting Facilities, Transportation and any other Chairs as needed. Provides a single point contact for session requests.

Special Events - Jim Wilbanks

(706)462-2316, (423)398-1331 jimgail@bigfoot.com

Responsible for banquet, Howdy Party, geology field trip, photo salon, speleo-auction and all recreational activities; coordinating events with the food service and facilities committees as appropriate; working with the executive committee to develop appropriate themes, menus and entertainment; and for developing a program of recreational trips and opportunities.

Speleo-Auction - Monty Keel

(706)673-228 montkeel@www.dalton.net

Responsible for organizing auction, soliciting items, and for locating and providing a secure storage place for them. Must work with public relations to publicize event within local grottos, with facilities for scheduling.

Speleo-Olympics - David Smith

(423) 499-0162 76532.1025@compuserve.com

Responsible for the planning, building, and operation of an obstacle course that gives all participants an equal opportunity to compete and win; responsible for prizes and their award, and working with the Chair of the vendor committee to obtain same; responsible for returning site to its original condition.

Symbolic Devices - Bill Bussey

(919) 403-7275 billbus@gte.net

Responsible for all themes and logos representing the Convention; for organizing the Convention theme and logo competition; for solicitation of bids and for production of all items bearing the Convention symbols; for all consignment sales; and for working with the registration committee to coordinate on-site sales.

Transportation - Wayne Prince

(931) 598-0426

Responsible for all on-campus transportation needs and for coordinating the transportation needs of the special events.

Treasurer - Bill Stringfellow

(770) 751-1257 bills89@idt.vivid.net

Responsible for receipt and disbursement of all convention moneys; establishment of bank accounts as needed; and preparation of all financial reports.

Vendor Committee - Carol Jackson

(706) 863-7019 OleBat@aol.com

Responsible for solicit vendor participation; preparing the processing vendor registration forms; working with the treasurer for the deposit of funds; working with the campground committee on site selection for self-contained speleo-vendors, and working with the facilities committee for site selection for indoor vendors.

Vice-Chairmen - Diane Cousineau

(706) 764-2296 104017.2164@compuserve.com

Responsible for stepping in should Chairman die.

1999 NSS Convention

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

mabacke@aol.com

Progress

Contracts for the Fairgrounds and the College of Southern Idaho (CSI) Auditorium have been signed. The CSI auditorium is a 900 plus seat, air-conditioned theater and should provide an ideal setting for the Photo Salon. There is adequate room for rear projection so all seats will be available for viewing. This is the only activity that will necessitate bussing.

Jim Hathorn, Facilities Chair, has informed us that the new Exposition building at the Fairgrounds will not be built in time for the Convention. Because of that, we will need to find a place for the Vertical Session and the Banquet. The gym at the Filer High School (about 1000 yards from the campground and all other activities)should work fine. Jim is also looking into cooling units for the buildings at the Fairgrounds.

Ken Storey, Publication Chair, has submitted a preliminary registration form. Fine tuning will take place at the October meeting.

Charlie Wilkerson, Social Chair, has submitted preliminary artwork for the Convention logo, T-shirts, and other symbolic devices. Fine tuning as well as work on the slogan will take place at the October meeting.

Sam Lair, Promotion Chair, presented a short video at the 1997 Convention. This presentation focused on general activities, sights, and sounds of Idaho and the Magic Valley area. He is currently working on a detailed slide presentation for the 1998 Convention. Two copies of this will be made and given to the NSS AV library for distribution to the general membership.

Plans

The next meeting of the 1999 NSS Convention Committee will be October 18, 1997. It is being held at the Twin Falls County Fairgrounds in Filer Idaho (site of the 1999 NSS Convention).

Problems

Two problems have come up.

Peggy Kesner, Treasurer, is having difficulty getting Committee chairs to submit budgets. I and Mike Backe take full responsibility for not handling this situation properly. It will be addressed and taken care of at the October meeting.

The NSS keeps telling me and Peggy that there is a certain software, accounts, and other procedures that must be used and followed. Unfortunately, none of these have been sent to us or explained. It would be a great help if we could get these as soon as possible so we may familiarize ourselves with them and start using them.

Finally, most all of the 1999 NSS Convention Committee feels that we are still a very small group to be handling such a large convention. Hopefully we will attract more help as the time draws closer.

2000 NSS Convention

Kelley (Deacon) Deem (Chairman)
PO Box 924
Fairmont, WV 26555-0924

deem@mammoth-geo.com

Progress

In the past few months, we filled several staff positions. We also held a convention planning meeting during OTR to introduce new staff members and update all on recent progress. So far, we are on schedule and the staff is ready to roll. We met with the new superintendent of schools for Randolph County. Like the previous superintendent, he is very positive about having the NSS host its convention in Elkins. We also updated The Robertson Association (TRA) during its Fall meeting on the NSS Convention bid acceptance; and we confirmed the campground usage dates.

Plans

By the next report we will be working on the following:

1. Getting a written contract with the school board, which should include high school shower usage to augment those at the campground,

2. Creating a Memorandum of Understanding between The NSS Convention 2000

and The Robertson Association regarding campground usage,

3. Having the convention logo finalized,

4. Communicating with Carol Tiderman to determine how to format the registrar’s and treasurer’s respective jobs to work with the NSS computer software, and

5. Setting the date for the next full convention planning meeting, which will occur before the Spring BOG meeting.

Problems

So far, we’ve been blessed with a distinct lack of problems. We’re hoping that if problems are to develop, they do so early enough that we can resolve them successfully. If something comes up we can’t deal with, you’ll be next to know, second to Carol.

Convention Registration Software Committee

Kathy Welling (Chairman)
8679 S State Road 243
Cloverdale IN 46120-9696

irish.bat@worldnet.att.net8

Progress

Met with Phil Winkler (Association Software Committee), Wm. Shrewsbury (Chairman 1998 Convention), Bill Stingfellow (Treasurer 1998 Convention), Paul Stevens (NSS Secretary-Treasurer), Carol Tiderman (Division Chief), Doug Medville (AVP) at OTR, to see where we are and where we need to go.

Met somewhat later with Paul, String, and Nick Schaer (2000 Treas.) to see what they need now. Bill Bussey is the 2000 Registrar, but was not at this meeting.

I received a copy of DataEase and NSSTrak from Phil, to load on to my computer and get up to speed. He also delivered a copy of the MeetingTrak Manual at OTR and gave me a quick overview demo of the software.

Plans

Phil is to have a copy of MeetingTrak to Avis VanSwearingen (1998 Registrar)and a copy of LedgerMaster to Bill Stringfellow by mid-September, and to provide training the weekend of TAG Fall Cave-In. I am to meet with them there. Stringfellow is to send a copy of the chart of accounts to Nick by the end of September. I need to get familiar with the existing software, get a list of the changes that Carol had recommended to Phil when they met last February, and see what still needs to be done to customize the software. I need to get familiar enough with the software to be able to do phone support for Avis, if necessary, and to start on (1 )a procedures manual that explains the flow of registration - who does what, who reports to whom, which things flow in sequence and which thing take place in parallel (2) a simplified version of the manual that details the actual registration process, both pre-registration and on site. This may not be finalized until during or after the 1998 Convention, as it will probably need some "field testing".

Problems

Due to the somewhat irregular nature of my move, I'm still not "settled in" to anything that remotely resembles a routine. This has slowed me down in loading and learning the software, but it's coming along. I'm told that the remodeling will be done in a couple of weeks, so I hope to be more organized in about a month (certainly by the time of the November Board Meeting).

Have heard nothing from Phil, String or Avis since OTR, so I don't know if those plans have happened as scheduled or not. I do not have an e-mail address for Avis - not sure if she has one. Hopefully the 1998 Convention Report will fill in some of the blanks, but I will call Avis before TAG to see where we are.

I may have to schedule a separate trip to Huntsville to meet with Avis (which would be more likely to be productive anyway)

Convention Sessions Committee

Vacant

AVP Comment: In accordance with Act 40-498,an ad has been written for the NSS News soliciting volunteers for Chair of this Committee. The ad reads:

The NSS is seeking a person to be Chair of a Convention Sessions Committee in the AVP Department. In general terms, this person will work with each year’s Convention Staff to make sure that sessions and workshops are properly planned and organized and to help maintain the quality of such meetings held at NSS Conventions. Specifically, the committee will make sure that:

Calls for papers are prominently solicited in the NSS News well in advance of the Convention

All sessions have a Chair and these points of contact for each session are made known in advance so those wanting to submit papers know to whom abstracts should be sent

All abstracts are reviewed for content and for relevance to the session

Abstracts are sent to the Convention Program Editor and to the Editor of the Journal of Cave and Karst Studies for inclusion in those publications

Facilities are appropriate for each session or workshop: size, A/V equipment, layout, etc.

Session locations are made known to Convention attendees through clear, visible signs

Changes in location of sessions and other meetings and in speakers (e.g., cancellations, additions) are also made known to Convention attendees through prominent placement of signs and other notices

Papers given follow the announced schedule so people know when to arrive at a session

Those interested in filling this position should contact either Carol Tiderman, Chief of the Convention Division in the AVP Department (tiderman@erols.com) or Doug Medville, NSS Administrative Vice President (medville@patriot.net).

Congress of Grottoes

Carol S. Jackson (Chairman)
4784 Silver Lake Dr.
Evans GA 30809-9758

(706) 863-7019

olebat@aol.com

Progress

The request for bylaw change was submitted in the summer COG report and should be presented for consideration at the Fall BOG meeting.

A meeting between the COG officers and potential regional representatives will be held during the Old Timers Reunion to discuss communications and regional representatives.

Plans

COG representatives at the 1997 convention voted to have an amendment to the bylaws which would allow the Congress to call for a referendum on an issue if the COG passes the issue for two consecutive years and the BOG does not pass the issue.

Improved communications methods between the IO's and the IO chair, which may also be used by the COG, are being considered by the IO chair.

A more aggressive call for issues is planned for the NSS News.

The possibility of appointed regional representatives is being considered.

Problems

Few issues are submitted to the Congress for consideration during the annual meeting. It is unknown if this is a communication or an image problem between the Congress as a whole and the internal organizations. COG representatives have previously stated that they feel that the COG has little clout with the Board of Governors. Communication between the COG officers and the Internal Organizations is weak.

Junior Speleological Society

Duane A. Vore (Chairman)
328 Jenny Lane
Centerville, OH 45459-1737

(513) 433-1787

d.a.vore@erinet.com

Progress

1. We successfully executed the JSS program for 1997. We had 67 youths participate, a significant increase over 1996. A disproportionate percentage of this growth was among teenagers, which we attribute to the increased emphasis we placed on teen activities this year. Another change for this year that proved positive was offering more than one JSS cave trip, which we expect to continue. The Junior Speleolympics did not happen because it was supposed to be part of the regular Speleolympics.

About 15% of the kids returned their evaluation forms. There was overwhelming agreement on a couple problems that we already knew about: (a) there was insufficient time allotted for cave trips, and (b) a number of planned activities fell through because of either errors on my part (Grant’s Farm), the ball being dropped by parties at the other end (the arcade) or circumstances beyond our control (the teen overnight.)

2. I have completed my first pre-planning trip to Chattanooga for the 1998 Convention.

Plans

1. In the future we will computerize JSS paperwork to help streamline logistics. This would include on-line pre-registration, on-site management of JSS registration and trip sign-up, and generating trip rosters. We may use bar coding to speed checking the kids in and out. The fact that I’m a software engineer makes this project feasible.

2. I have placed Lysa DeThomas in charge of scheduling since she has more practical experience in this area.

3. Lysa has arranged with Don Coons for a JSS division in the Cartography Salon. If this works out we hope to make it an annual event.

4. We are making the JSS newsletter a semi-regular publication to provide continuity for the JSS kids throughout the year.

5. I have made arrangements with Avis VanSwearingen to meet with some of the 1998 Convention staff at TAG to discuss JSS for Sewanee, and am scheduling two more planning trips to Tennessee.

Problems

I have removed Diane Barns from the JSS Committee because of lack of response.

Salon Coordinator

Paul Stevens (Chairman)
5964 Seabright Rd.
Springfield, VA 22152-1738

(703) 451-7663

plstevens@aol.com

(Report not received)