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Cave Softly... and carry a big stick. - Stuart Marlatt, Colorado Cave Survey
Truer words were never spoken. Caves are for everyone to see, therefore it is everyones responsibility to protect them. Dont let
anyone tell you that the only way to preserve caves is to keep people out of them.
You gotta fight.. for your right... - Beastie Boys
First of all, property rights must be respected. If a cave is on private property, get permission first. If permission is denied, or the land owner cannot be contacted, go caving somewhere else. Its that simple. There is plenty of caving to be had elsewhere.
Take nothing but pictures, Leave nothing but footprints,
Kill nothing but time. - Caving Axiom
Many of the more popular caves in Colorado have been vandalized, i.e. formations
broken off, grafitti on the walls, etc. You’ll notice more vandalism near the entrances of most caves, the deeper you go, the more pristine the cave. Double/Trouble cannot stress this enough:
Cause no more damage. Weve had the privilege of seeing some astounding formations in a gated and locked cave, and the thought of someone destroying them is heartwrenching. Leave the cave in the same (or
better) shape than you found it. The next guy will appreciate it.
You gotta have friends. Without friends, you are a
perfect stranger. - Tommy Parks, Gods own bartender
OK, so the quote has nothing to do with cave safety. But here it is. Occasionally you will find a dry, dusty cave, but most caves in Colorado are cold, wet and muddy. Dress accordingly. Click on the Cave Safely button for more information on equipment.
Dont get in over your head. If you keep your eyes open and your head up, you will know when to turn back toward the entrance. Above all, HAVE FUN AND BE SAFE. Enjoy the sights.
Once you are deep into a cave, take a breather and go lights out. You are in the darkest place on the planet, bar none. Take plenty of pictures, a regular flash on a regular camera will produce
great caving pics. And remember:
Caves are for everyone, and free to be seen by all
who care to enter in. - CaverOne.
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