The National Speleological Society (NSS) is the world's largest organization concerned with the conservation, scientific study and exploration of caves.

The NSS was formed by a group of cavers in 1941, to promote interest in the study, science, exploration and protection of caves and their natural contents. The NSS also strived to promote fellowship among those interested in speleology.

Today the purpose remains the same, as members work together to explore, study and conserve caves and karst areas. Affiliated with the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the NSS has more than 12,000 members throughout the United States and in forty countries.

For more information on the NSS and caving, or to find a local chapter (grotto) near you, visit the NSS web site at http://www.caves.org

The NSS also accepts donations to continue the scientific study and preservation of caves.

DONATIONS CAN BE MADE TO THE "SAVE THE CAVES FUND" THROUGH THE NSS.

Caves need protection. The intricate formations and the animals found underground appear to be an everlasting part of the cave, and it is hard to imagine that they might not always be there.

But caves are extremely delicate. Fragile speleothems and sensitive species can be destroyed by a single act of vandalism or carelessness. Indeed, many cave formations that once existed are now gone forever, never to be seen by future generations.

There are other reasons why caves need our protection. Caves continue to be an exciting source of new scientific knowledge, such as shown in "Journey into Amazing Caves". In addition, many rural communities depend on cave-supplied springs and rivers for their water supply. Contamination of the caves with pesticides and animal waste can destroy a town's water supply.

Underwater and Ice Caving

The caves featured in Journey into Amazing Caves are some of the most spectacular on Earth. They are also some of the most dangerous, and require extensive training to enter. In particular, underwater caves pose a hazard. Many experienced divers, including diving instructors, have died in underwater caves. Any problems that a diver experiences in these caves must be dealt with - there is no possibility of simply swimming up for air. Though you see cave divers using underwater lights, side-mount scuba tanks and divelines to explore the caves, there is much more to diving in a cave than knowing what equipment to use. Special navigation techniques, for example, must be learned so divers can move safely through this environment. None of these techniques are taught during open-water diving class. Cave divers must get special training and certification. Open Water divers who wish to explore this fascinating underground world can do it by diving with a professional guide who specializes in cavern diving. These services are available at Hidden Worlds Park.

Likewise, ice caves are unique environments with associated dangers. Ice is inherently unstable and special techniques are required to travel through this environment safely, including ice-climbing and vertical caving skills. The film shows cavers using crampons, ropes, and other ascending and descending tools, all of which require extensive training to use. Even experienced cavers have been seriously hurt in ice caves so it is imperative that you enter this environment with an experienced guide.

Terrestrial Caving

Caves are a unique treasure deserving your respect and tender care. An extraordinary trip through the underground world can be enjoyed by the prepared and responsible caver.

However, due to its alien environment, caves can be very dangerous to the inexperienced or unprepared visitor. Caving requires the following rules to be followed.