How
do you preserve a cave? This is not an easy task! Protecting the cave
from vandalism is a beginning but to effectively manage it requires
knowledge of its location in relation to the surface. This knowledge
can be gained only through exploring and mapping Wind Cave's passages.
To map a cave requires exploration teams to survey the cave and inventory
its features.
Surveying cave passages is hard work. This is especially
true in Wind Cave because of its maze-like nature. To survey a cave
requires several pieces of equipment: a compass to determine bearings,
an inclinometer to measure the slope of passageways and a measuring
tape to measure the distance between survey stations. This information
is recorded in a survey notebook. Also recorded in the survey book
are sketches of cave passages.
Inventorying cave passages involves keeping meticulous
notes concerning the features of the cave such as living organisms,
cultural features, boxwork,
dripping water, etc. These notes provide a resource inventory of Wind
Cave, which provides a database of information for researchers. Inventory
notes also help managers warn explorers and researchers about delicate
formations or potential safety hazards.
Survey and inventory data, entered into a computer,
are used to create a cave map. To show managers where the cave exists
in relation to surface features, cave maps are overlaid onto a surface
map. The knowledge gained from these maps helps cave managers and
researchers understand how topography and surface developments affect
water flow and quality. For instance, buildings, roads and parking
lots can alter the natural flow of water that, for eons, has seeped
into the cave slowly decorating it with formations. These structures
and automobiles could also introduce pollutants into aquifers and
the pristine cave environment.
Maps also help cave managers understand the different
paths water takes from the surface to the cave. It may be possible
to identify potential pollution sources in the area. Non-toxic dyes
added to the surface water and traced through the cave also assist
in the study of water flow.
Not everyone can explore in Wind Cave, but we are
all a part of its protection. To protect the cave, we need to become
more aware of possible impacts. When on the surface, dispose of wastes
properly. When in the cave, appreciate the beauty while allowing the
cave to remain pristine. Together we can preserve the natural wonders
hidden beneath our feet. |
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