Vertical Section National Speleological Society

The Vertical Section is an Internal Organization of the National Speleological Society. As with other I/O's of the NSS, the Vertical Section draws together cavers with an interest in a specific realm of caving. As caves are three dimensional, there are some caves and cave passages that require ropework to negotiate. The main purpose of the Section is to develop, educate, and train cavers in safe and efficient vertical rope techniques. Officially, the goals of the Vertical Section are to: Educate the members and the public in the study and science of Speleology Promote interest in the study of vertical caving methods Encourage the development of safe vertical caving techniques and their application in the exploration of vertical caves Advance the protection of caves and their natural contents Promote fellowship among those interested therein by performing as a Section of the National Speleological Society The Vertical Section is one of the largest I/O's of the NSS. Our regular publication is the Nylon Highway. We also produce training programs to help grottos and other agencies to conduct classes with consistent and up-to-date methods of vertical rope techniques. Vertical Caving uses techniques similar to those of mountaineers, but adapted for the cave environment ... underground, in the dark, just to make it more interesting. As with other outdoor activities involving heights, ropework can be hazardous, even deadly, if you don't follow the 'rules'. The Vertical Section strives to teach the 'rules' and help cavers avoid disasters. Ropework can't be safely learned by self-study ... i.e., out of a book. Only practiced study, under a competent instructor, will provide adequate training for the novice climber. Be Safe! Get proper training before you attempt any ropework. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions for this site, e-mail Gary Bush at caving@wgbush.com Copyright © 1999, 2000 Vertical Section of the NSS, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Visitor Number:   Site Last Updated on July 7, 2002