BUTLER CAVE CONSERVATION SOCIETY, INC.

Butler Cave was discovered in 1958 when a small crack under a ledge of limestone was dug open. Spectacular discoveries followed as miles of natural underground tunnels and chambers were found. In 1968, ten years after the discovery of the cave, the Butler Cave Conservation Society, Inc. was formed. It is a non-stock, non-profit corporation dedicated to the preservation, conservation and study of caves.

Soon after its inception, the BCCS purchased a 65 acre tract of land that included the entrance to Butler Cave. In 1989 another 84 acre tract of land was purchased surrounding the entrance of nearby Bobcat Cave, now part of the Chestnut Ridge Cave System.

To ensure the continued pristine nature of these caves, the entrances were gated and management plans were put into effect. Each year hundreds of hours are spent underground by volunteers who study, survey, and explore these underground laboratories.

Listed below are projects which have been undertaken:

• The meteorology of Butler Cave is being studied and interim findings have been published.
• The mineralogy of both Butler and Bobcat is unusual and is subject to on-going study.
• Geologists are studying the caves to determine their origin, historical development, and relationship to present day hydrology.
• Microbiologists have discovered iron fixing bacteria which may explain the coloring of some of the formations.
• Hydro geologists have traced numerous underground streams which funnel water from the surface. These streams travel many miles underground and reappear on the surface as springs. In addition, they have studied the chemistry of the streams and their role in transmission of bacteria.
• Paleontologists are examining skeletal remains and animal tracks to identify and explain why and when animals used the caves.
• Cartographers are using the latest techniques (and inventing new ones) to create maps of the caves.
• Photographers are recording the sights on film and video to maintain a visual record.
• Explorers are pushing the extent of the caves by digging into clogged passageways, by diving water filled passages, and by scaling high walls.

These efforts have been rewarded. Mappers have surveyed more than 16 miles of passages in the Butler Cave-Sinking Creek System, making it the third longest cave in Virginia. The Chestnut Ridge System, currently 17.5 miles long, is Virginia's third longest cave and at -722 feet, the state's third deepest.

Neither of these caves will ever be "commercialized"; however, volunteers - experienced in caving - are invited to spend time and energy exploring the many remaining mysteries.

In addition to projects for volunteers, the BCCS offers a limited number of orientation trips into Butler Cave. Visitors incur no obligation, but it is hoped that they will volunteer for additional work trips.

Nestled in a remote section of Virginia's highlands, these spectacular caves are being permanently conserved for scientific, educational, and recreational uses. As a tax-exempt, non-profit organization, the BCCS is dependent upon dues from members - and contributions from you - to continue the conservation and preservation of these caves. The unique character of the work of the BCCS, as well as the mystery and beauty of Virginia's underground treasures will be enriched by your generosity.

BCCS
c/o Nancy Gibson
4025 Mt. Zion Road
Blacksburg VA 24060