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Cave environments are highly sensitive. As such we may not always realize our impact. Listed below are some ways we can all assist.
Practice clean caving: Biology and microbiology is complex and it is hard to know what we may be spreading or impacting. Whether it be to help limit the spread of White Nose Syndrome (a disease deadly for bats) or other forms of bacteria and biology, clean caving is smart caving.
Information on how to decon your gear located here. Note, some regions may contain multiple decontamination zones. Please check-in with your local grottos for more guidance and regional conservation efforts. (See Contacts Page).
Trash, Biowaste and Food: All trash must be carefully removed from caves and disposed of properly. To prevent contamination of the cave ecosystem, all body waste must be carried out and disposed of properly. Remember there are no restrooms underground. Please think ahead when planning a long cave visit by carrying a container to remove wastes. In addition, any food; even crumbs, when left behind in a cave have the potential to disrupt the natural food chain in the cave and can cause an unusual change in organisms. Please be mindful that what is brought into a cave can also be brought out
The Federal Cave Resource Protection Act prohibits the collecting or removing of any natural feature from Federally owned caves and the defacement of any cave is illegal and can result in significant fines. Therefore, if you should happen upon vandalism in progress- take photos, license plate numbers and report the information to the appropriate authorities. Please do not force a confrontation.
More information on the conservation and the NSS located here
Ape cave clean up project 2023.
Malheur Cave clean up project.