How can we protect the cave?

Detecting groundwater contamination can be difficult, much more difficult than detection of surface water contamination. Because we can't see groundwater, we don't usually notice any contamination until it appears in water from springs or wells. Cleaning up groundwater can be costly and difficult.

 

The public needs to understand that surface wastes can easily enter the groundwater system in karst areas. Factories which produce industrial and hazardous wastes must be located in areas away from sinkholes. Newer fuel storage tanks, which are less likely to leak, should be used and older storage tanks replaced. Old city sewage systems need to be repaired or replaced. New plastic pipes will stretch rather than break when new sinkholes develop along sewer lines. Farmers can reduce the use of pesticides and depend more on organic farming methods.

 

What Can You Do To Help?

 

Recycle!! The only way to reduce the amount of trash going to landfills is for all Americans to actively recycle.

 

Share the message of cave conservation with your family and friends. At any cave you may visit, remember this motto:

 

Take nothing but pictures; Leave nothing but footprints; Kill nothing but time!!

 

For more information on cave conservation, visit the American Cave Conservation Association website!