NPS Photo
A volunteer removes lint from formations in Jewel Cave
Black Hills Cave Restoration Camp
This annual week-long event is hosted by Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument. The goal of the project is to restore the cave's natural condition along the public tour routes, by removing accumulations of "lint" (clothing fibers, hair, skin cells), trail dust, and other unnatural debris.
There is no registration fee, and housing is provided. Two days will be spent working at each cave, with Thursday as a "day off" for caving and/or sightseeing. Prior cave restoration experience is desired, but not required.
This year's Restoration Camp will be held September 6 -10, 2011. For more information, or to sign up, contact Kelly Mathis at (605) 673-8324 or by email. Space is limited, and the registration deadline is August 19, 2011.
About the VIP Program at Jewel Cave National Monument
Interpretive Volunteer duties include researching, preparing and presenting thematic cave tours and a variety of surface programs including tours and programs for educational groups; staffing visitor center information desk including tour ticket sales and book sales; offering orientation and information services in informal settings; answering public information requests; and assisting with special projects.
For more information regarding Jewel Cave National Monument volunteer program, please contact the Park Volunteer Coordinator at (605) 673-8300.
Volunteer Caving Opportunities
Volunteers often enter undeveloped portions of Jewel Cave to assist the park with a variety of projects, including water sampling, impact monitoring, surveying and mapping, and gathering data for scientific studies. Experienced cavers who are interested in helping with these trips can contact Rene Ohms at (605) 673-8310 or Mike Wiles at (605) 673-8308.
