[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The Government Canyon Karst Project will be starting up again on on the weekend of October 8 and 9. The dates for the rest of year are as follows: October 8, 9 November 5, 6 December 4 We will be working on several cave surveys, a dig in Government Canyon Blowhole - following the air, the continuing digs in Dancing Fern Cave and Lost Pothole, and surface digs on several likely-looking sinks. Of course there is always plenty of ridgewalking for those who want to find new caves. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. We will meet at 9:00 both mornings. Camping is available. Contact me to set it up. Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The Government Canyon Karst Project will be starting up again on on the weekend of October 8 and 9. The dates for the rest of year are as follows: October 8, 9 November 5, 6 December 4 We will be working on several cave surveys, a dig in Government Canyon Blowhole - following the air, the continuing digs in Dancing Fern Cave and Lost Pothole, and surface digs on several likely-looking sinks. Of course there is always plenty of ridgewalking for those who want to find new caves. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. We will meet at 9:00 both mornings. Camping is available. Contact me to set it up. Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The Government Canyon Karst Project will be starting up again on on the weekend of October 8 and 9. The dates for the rest of year are as follows: October 8, 9 November 5, 6 December 4 We will be working on several cave surveys, a dig in Government Canyon Blowhole - following the air, the continuing digs in Dancing Fern Cave and Lost Pothole, and surface digs on several likely-looking sinks. Of course there is always plenty of ridgewalking for those who want to find new caves. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. We will meet at 9:00 both mornings. Camping is available. Contact me to set it up. Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
RE: [Texascavers] Article on KHOU on Twinkie's Cave
BT and Will (the owner of the upstream entrances) have been very conscientious about taking finds to several professors at UT and have developed some good relationships with them. One fellow even took a tour of the cave recently. The truth is that the university doesn't have the funds to run a project at the cave right now. BT and Will would be more than happy to accomodate them. What has been suggested to to BT is that he maintain the collection and sometime in the near future he will get some assistance (probably unpaid) to catalogue the items, but they will stay with him (or Will) for now. Immediately after the first bones were found - which was also coincident with finding the upstream entrances - BT and Will worked out an agreement for how to deal with any finds. You know that news stories don't always give you the whole picture. Marvin Miller _ From: Andy Gluesenkamp [mailto:andrew_gluesenk...@yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, August 01, 2011 11:44 AM To: Fofo; texascavers Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Article on KHOU on Twinkie's Cave Those specimens belong in a museum (or in a cave), not on someone's bookshelf. Also, BT oughtta fess up that the fossils are coming from a part of the cave on his neighbor's property, not his. Andy Andrew G. Gluesenkamp, Ph.D. 700 Billie Brooks Drive Driftwood, Texas 78619 (512) 799-1095 a...@gluesenkamp.com _ From: Fofo gonza...@msu.edu To: texascavers texascavers@texascavers.com Sent: Mon, August 1, 2011 11:28:05 AM Subject: [Texascavers] Article on KHOU on Twinkie's Cave ¡Hola! Here's an article that I saw today about Twinkie's Cave in Comal County. http://www.khou.com/news/Local-man-makes-prehistoric-discovery-in-his-own-ba ckyard-125157069.html Orhttp://tinyurl.com/3lynqxr The text of the article is below. Take care, - Fofo -- SAN ANTONIO -- Somewhere in Comal County is a small parcel of private land full of breathtaking views. Hidden amidst the beauty is a mysterious entrance to the unknown. Inside, there is not much space, and it quickly goes from dry to wet. Thats because it's a cave full of spring-fed water. And there are plenty of creatures living inside. There's a small colony of bats in there, said William BT Price, who owns the land. Price bought the land where the hidden cave is located two years ago. Now, he's a retired banker who's become an explorer of his own backyard. The cave is at least a mile in length. Price and friends are constantly pushing the limits by going into areas where the water and ceiling are separated by inches. It can be very dangerous -- very, very dangerous -- if it's not done right, said Price. Within the unknown lies a familiar treasure from prehistoric times: fossils. Here's some pieces of mastodon teeth, said Kurt Menking, who has helped Price discover the fossils. Some of the most exotic discoveries include an almost complete skull of a Homotherium, an animal that was part of the saber-tooth tiger family. Other remains are from beasts you only hear about in movies, like 10-foot-tall, 8,000-pound sloths. Concordia University biology professor Laurence Meissner is just one of a few professionals to verify the recent discovery. Yes, they're legitimate fossils. They lived in the late Ice Age. Probably went extinct around 10 to 15 thousand years ago, Meissner said. Experts like Meissner said its very rare to find fossils in Texas, especially animals like the Homotherium found in the local cave. It just gives us a record of the past. It tells us what life used to be like 10 to 20,000 years ago and it shows there's been substantial change in the environment here, Meissner said. Price said he plans to continue seeking more fossils in the area hes dubbed Twinkies Cave, named after his fiancées dog. Prices long-term goal is to have the fossils preserved, then donate the cave to either a caving group or to state-funded paleontology organizations that have seen funding cuts due to budget woes. - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com http://texascavers.com/ To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
RE: [Texascavers] Article on KHOU on Twinkie's Cave
BT and Will (the owner of the upstream entrances) have been very conscientious about taking finds to several professors at UT and have developed some good relationships with them. One fellow even took a tour of the cave recently. The truth is that the university doesn't have the funds to run a project at the cave right now. BT and Will would be more than happy to accomodate them. What has been suggested to to BT is that he maintain the collection and sometime in the near future he will get some assistance (probably unpaid) to catalogue the items, but they will stay with him (or Will) for now. Immediately after the first bones were found - which was also coincident with finding the upstream entrances - BT and Will worked out an agreement for how to deal with any finds. You know that news stories don't always give you the whole picture. Marvin Miller _ From: Andy Gluesenkamp [mailto:andrew_gluesenk...@yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, August 01, 2011 11:44 AM To: Fofo; texascavers Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Article on KHOU on Twinkie's Cave Those specimens belong in a museum (or in a cave), not on someone's bookshelf. Also, BT oughtta fess up that the fossils are coming from a part of the cave on his neighbor's property, not his. Andy Andrew G. Gluesenkamp, Ph.D. 700 Billie Brooks Drive Driftwood, Texas 78619 (512) 799-1095 a...@gluesenkamp.com _ From: Fofo gonza...@msu.edu To: texascavers texascavers@texascavers.com Sent: Mon, August 1, 2011 11:28:05 AM Subject: [Texascavers] Article on KHOU on Twinkie's Cave ¡Hola! Here's an article that I saw today about Twinkie's Cave in Comal County. http://www.khou.com/news/Local-man-makes-prehistoric-discovery-in-his-own-ba ckyard-125157069.html Orhttp://tinyurl.com/3lynqxr The text of the article is below. Take care, - Fofo -- SAN ANTONIO -- Somewhere in Comal County is a small parcel of private land full of breathtaking views. Hidden amidst the beauty is a mysterious entrance to the unknown. Inside, there is not much space, and it quickly goes from dry to wet. Thats because it's a cave full of spring-fed water. And there are plenty of creatures living inside. There's a small colony of bats in there, said William BT Price, who owns the land. Price bought the land where the hidden cave is located two years ago. Now, he's a retired banker who's become an explorer of his own backyard. The cave is at least a mile in length. Price and friends are constantly pushing the limits by going into areas where the water and ceiling are separated by inches. It can be very dangerous -- very, very dangerous -- if it's not done right, said Price. Within the unknown lies a familiar treasure from prehistoric times: fossils. Here's some pieces of mastodon teeth, said Kurt Menking, who has helped Price discover the fossils. Some of the most exotic discoveries include an almost complete skull of a Homotherium, an animal that was part of the saber-tooth tiger family. Other remains are from beasts you only hear about in movies, like 10-foot-tall, 8,000-pound sloths. Concordia University biology professor Laurence Meissner is just one of a few professionals to verify the recent discovery. Yes, they're legitimate fossils. They lived in the late Ice Age. Probably went extinct around 10 to 15 thousand years ago, Meissner said. Experts like Meissner said its very rare to find fossils in Texas, especially animals like the Homotherium found in the local cave. It just gives us a record of the past. It tells us what life used to be like 10 to 20,000 years ago and it shows there's been substantial change in the environment here, Meissner said. Price said he plans to continue seeking more fossils in the area hes dubbed Twinkies Cave, named after his fiancées dog. Prices long-term goal is to have the fossils preserved, then donate the cave to either a caving group or to state-funded paleontology organizations that have seen funding cuts due to budget woes. - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com http://texascavers.com/ To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
RE: [Texascavers] Books donated
Way to go, Bill! Don't forget the Caves and Karst of Texas promised by Ron Ralph and the TSS. The Bexar grotto donated $100 worth of NSS books and Caves and Karst to the Bulverde - Spring Branch Public Library. Marvin Miller _ From: Bill Bentley [mailto:ca...@caver.net] Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2011 10:02 PM To: Texascavers Mailing List Cc: PBSS Mailing List; n...@caves.org; Richard Galle - Work; bwilli...@sibleynaturecenter.org Subject: [Texascavers] Books donated Texas Cavers, A while back another Texas grotto challenged every other Texas Grotto to buy $100.00 worth of books from the National Speleological Society Bookstore and donate them to their local Public Libraries. The Permian Basin Speleological Society has answered and fulfilled that challenge by buying over $100.00 worth of cave books and along with some free brochures from the National Speleological Society and donating them to the Sibley Nature Center here in Midland, Texas. http://www.caver.net/images/booksdonatedp.jpg The above picture is PBSS 2011 President Jacqui Thomas presenting Richard Galle of the Sibley Nature Center one of the many books donated by the members of the PBSS. http://www.caver.net/images/booksdonated.jpg The above picture is the books and brochures that were donated to the Sibley Nature Center. The PBSS had previously donated a copy of Carl Kunath's book 50 Years of Texas Caving to the Sibley Nature Center shortly after it was published. More information about 50 Years of Texas Caving can be found here: http://pages.suddenlink.net/carl-kunath/50_Years/50_Years.html More information about the Sibley Nature Center can be found on the web site here: http://www.sibleynaturecenter.org/ Thanks, Bill Bentley, PBSS Treasurer 2011 PBSS Web Page: http://www.caver.net/pbss/pbss.html NSS Web Page: http://www.caves.org/
RE: [Texascavers] Books donated
Way to go, Bill! Don't forget the Caves and Karst of Texas promised by Ron Ralph and the TSS. The Bexar grotto donated $100 worth of NSS books and Caves and Karst to the Bulverde - Spring Branch Public Library. Marvin Miller _ From: Bill Bentley [mailto:ca...@caver.net] Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2011 10:02 PM To: Texascavers Mailing List Cc: PBSS Mailing List; n...@caves.org; Richard Galle - Work; bwilli...@sibleynaturecenter.org Subject: [Texascavers] Books donated Texas Cavers, A while back another Texas grotto challenged every other Texas Grotto to buy $100.00 worth of books from the National Speleological Society Bookstore and donate them to their local Public Libraries. The Permian Basin Speleological Society has answered and fulfilled that challenge by buying over $100.00 worth of cave books and along with some free brochures from the National Speleological Society and donating them to the Sibley Nature Center here in Midland, Texas. http://www.caver.net/images/booksdonatedp.jpg The above picture is PBSS 2011 President Jacqui Thomas presenting Richard Galle of the Sibley Nature Center one of the many books donated by the members of the PBSS. http://www.caver.net/images/booksdonated.jpg The above picture is the books and brochures that were donated to the Sibley Nature Center. The PBSS had previously donated a copy of Carl Kunath's book 50 Years of Texas Caving to the Sibley Nature Center shortly after it was published. More information about 50 Years of Texas Caving can be found here: http://pages.suddenlink.net/carl-kunath/50_Years/50_Years.html More information about the Sibley Nature Center can be found on the web site here: http://www.sibleynaturecenter.org/ Thanks, Bill Bentley, PBSS Treasurer 2011 PBSS Web Page: http://www.caver.net/pbss/pbss.html NSS Web Page: http://www.caves.org/
RE: [Texascavers] Books donated
Way to go, Bill! Don't forget the Caves and Karst of Texas promised by Ron Ralph and the TSS. The Bexar grotto donated $100 worth of NSS books and Caves and Karst to the Bulverde - Spring Branch Public Library. Marvin Miller _ From: Bill Bentley [mailto:ca...@caver.net] Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2011 10:02 PM To: Texascavers Mailing List Cc: PBSS Mailing List; n...@caves.org; Richard Galle - Work; bwilli...@sibleynaturecenter.org Subject: [Texascavers] Books donated Texas Cavers, A while back another Texas grotto challenged every other Texas Grotto to buy $100.00 worth of books from the National Speleological Society Bookstore and donate them to their local Public Libraries. The Permian Basin Speleological Society has answered and fulfilled that challenge by buying over $100.00 worth of cave books and along with some free brochures from the National Speleological Society and donating them to the Sibley Nature Center here in Midland, Texas. http://www.caver.net/images/booksdonatedp.jpg The above picture is PBSS 2011 President Jacqui Thomas presenting Richard Galle of the Sibley Nature Center one of the many books donated by the members of the PBSS. http://www.caver.net/images/booksdonated.jpg The above picture is the books and brochures that were donated to the Sibley Nature Center. The PBSS had previously donated a copy of Carl Kunath's book 50 Years of Texas Caving to the Sibley Nature Center shortly after it was published. More information about 50 Years of Texas Caving can be found here: http://pages.suddenlink.net/carl-kunath/50_Years/50_Years.html More information about the Sibley Nature Center can be found on the web site here: http://www.sibleynaturecenter.org/ Thanks, Bill Bentley, PBSS Treasurer 2011 PBSS Web Page: http://www.caver.net/pbss/pbss.html NSS Web Page: http://www.caves.org/
[Texascavers] Nat Geo New Zealand deep cave diving video
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/news/culture-places-news/ne w-zealand-cave-diving-vin.html
[Texascavers] Nat Geo New Zealand deep cave diving video
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/news/culture-places-news/ne w-zealand-cave-diving-vin.html
[Texascavers] Nat Geo New Zealand deep cave diving video
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/news/culture-places-news/ne w-zealand-cave-diving-vin.html
[Texascavers] fuel cell chargers are here!
I've been hearing about this kind of application for fuel cell technology for several years. Are there any cavers using these things yet? http://www.myfuelcell.se/products/powertrekk/ -Marvin
[Texascavers] TSA convention map salon
All you cave cartographers, start gathering your maps and be prepared to bring them to the convention in Bracketville in April. I will be organizing the salon this year. It will be run pretty much as in previous years. Check out the web page for details: http://cavetexas.org/events/mapsalon.html . Be sure to take a look at the judging form (link on the web page) to see what criteria the maps will be judged on. If you would like to submit a map for the salon but wont be able to attend personally, you can mail a print of the map to me. If it is small format (8 ½ x 11) you can send me a digital file and I will print it myself. -Marvin Miller
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The 100th trip of the Government Canyon Karst Project will take place on the 5th and 6th of March. We will meet as usual at 9:00 on both days in the parking area of the Volunteer/Research Station to organize teams and objectives. On the evening of the 5th (Saturday) we will have a hog roast, awards ceremony, and presentation in celebration of the 100th project trip. The event will take place at the Volunteer/Research Station. All are invited to come. The hog will be provided courtesy of the Government Canyon Hog Hunters (feral hog eradication). A vegetarian entre will also be provided. Please bring a side dish and your own drinks. The meal will begin at 5:30. Many participants will be camping at the volunteer campground nearby so bring your tent and join in the fun. Then go caving, digging, or ridgewalking on Sunday. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
[Texascavers] Photo salon volunteer needed
The TSA is in need of a volunteer to coordinate the photo salon at this year's convention at Fort Clark Springs in Bracketville. Please contact Marvin Miller (mlmil...@gvtc.com) as soon as possible if you are able to help out with this.
[Texascavers] New pictures of the Martian pits
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/12/photogalleries/101221-mars-p its-pictures-photos-science-nasa-space-caves/#/mars-pits-overview_30639_600x 450.jpg
[Texascavers] Government Canyon karst project dates for 2011
Cavers, The following dates have been set for the Government Canyon Karst Project for the first part of next year: January: (NO PROJECT) February 5, 6 March 5, 6 April 9, 10 May 7, 8 The March date will be a milestone of the project, being the 100th trip since the very first one set up by George Veni in 1994. There will be a regularly scheduled project trip on the 5th with a party and campout being planned for that evening at the park. The party will include plenty of tasty eats and drinks and lots of caver fellowship. If you've ever helped out on the project, put it on your calendar and plan to show up. More details will emerge as the date approaches. -Marvin Miller
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The schedule for the Government Canyon Karst Project for the rest of 2010 is as follows: October 2 3 November 6 7 December 4 5 There are many caves still to be found at Government Canyon. There are caves to survey. Some of them require vertical work and some of them are short and easy. There are some intriguing in-cave leads and there are hundreds of surface features to investigate. Some of them will lead into caves. There is plenty for cavers of any skill level so mark these dates on your calendars and come help out. Camping is available at the park. Contact me to set that up. We will meet at 9:00 each morning in the parking lot of the Volunteer/Research Station. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
RE: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install
I'll try to be there at the same time. _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 11:37 PM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I will probably be there around 9am, when they open for tours. On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 10:04 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Ok. I'll plan on coming over there to help out on Saturday. What time are planning on getting started? _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 12:55 AM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install Heya Marvin, long time no talk. I won't be at the cave until Saturday, will be driving in late Friday night. I should be there all day Sat and Sun. Any help would be greatly appreciated. On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 8:48 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Charles, Are you going to be there starting Friday or Saturday? I'm thinking about spending a day over there helping out. -Marvin Miller _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Saturday, August 28, 2010 11:43 AM To: Cavetex Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I'll be at Cascade Caverns over labor day weekend working on the lights again. If anyone is interested in helping out with the project, please let me know. This is a great way to get out of the heat and underground. I know a few months ago that a film and dive crew went down to the lower cave that is off-trail from the tours, but I never heard what came of the trip. Did the sump go anywhere? Charles On Sat, Jul 3, 2010 at 11:41 AM, Scott Kyle sk...@cascadecaverns.com wrote: We've got the rest of the Summer open to all who'd like to come and help clean, install lighting and do a little exploring as well. It's really starting to look good. Go to: http://www.doodle.com/bah4t9d7r2657sw2 and sign up for mornings and/or afternoons. Ideally two or more folks will be there at the same time - and that can be designed through the scheduling tool linked above. Scott Kyle (804)402-8985 Cascade Caverns
RE: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install
Charles, What are you going to be working on? Should I bring any special tools? -Marvin _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Tuesday, August 31, 2010 10:46 PM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install if not, the guides can take you down with a crew, or just follow the path down :) On Tue, Aug 31, 2010 at 10:44 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: I'll try to be there at the same time. _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 11:37 PM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I will probably be there around 9am, when they open for tours. On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 10:04 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Ok. I'll plan on coming over there to help out on Saturday. What time are planning on getting started? _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 12:55 AM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install Heya Marvin, long time no talk. I won't be at the cave until Saturday, will be driving in late Friday night. I should be there all day Sat and Sun. Any help would be greatly appreciated. On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 8:48 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Charles, Are you going to be there starting Friday or Saturday? I'm thinking about spending a day over there helping out. -Marvin Miller _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Saturday, August 28, 2010 11:43 AM To: Cavetex Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I'll be at Cascade Caverns over labor day weekend working on the lights again. If anyone is interested in helping out with the project, please let me know. This is a great way to get out of the heat and underground. I know a few months ago that a film and dive crew went down to the lower cave that is off-trail from the tours, but I never heard what came of the trip. Did the sump go anywhere? Charles On Sat, Jul 3, 2010 at 11:41 AM, Scott Kyle sk...@cascadecaverns.com wrote: We've got the rest of the Summer open to all who'd like to come and help clean, install lighting and do a little exploring as well. It's really starting to look good. Go to: http://www.doodle.com/bah4t9d7r2657sw2 and sign up for mornings and/or afternoons. Ideally two or more folks will be there at the same time - and that can be designed through the scheduling tool linked above. Scott Kyle (804)402-8985 Cascade Caverns
RE: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install
OK. I helped install lights several months ago in the top of the fissure above the Cathedral Room. I'll bring my hammer drill in case we need an extra. _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:27 PM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install Oh, and I didn't answer your question, we'll be working on the lights :) On Tue, Aug 31, 2010 at 11:22 PM, Charles Goldsmith wo...@justfamily.org wrote: Nope, we have the tools we need, just your standard caving gear, gloves, kneepads, helmet, and if you want, bring your vertical gear, we'll drop into the lower cave tot he sump, i've never been down there, so am bringing my stuff On Tue, Aug 31, 2010 at 11:04 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Charles, What are you going to be working on? Should I bring any special tools? -Marvin _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Tuesday, August 31, 2010 10:46 PM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install if not, the guides can take you down with a crew, or just follow the path down :) On Tue, Aug 31, 2010 at 10:44 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: I'll try to be there at the same time. _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 11:37 PM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I will probably be there around 9am, when they open for tours. On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 10:04 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Ok. I'll plan on coming over there to help out on Saturday. What time are planning on getting started? _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 12:55 AM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install Heya Marvin, long time no talk. I won't be at the cave until Saturday, will be driving in late Friday night. I should be there all day Sat and Sun. Any help would be greatly appreciated. On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 8:48 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Charles, Are you going to be there starting Friday or Saturday? I'm thinking about spending a day over there helping out. -Marvin Miller _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Saturday, August 28, 2010 11:43 AM To: Cavetex Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I'll be at Cascade Caverns over labor day weekend working on the lights again. If anyone is interested in helping out with the project, please let me know. This is a great way to get out of the heat and underground. I know a few months ago that a film and dive crew went down to the lower cave that is off-trail from the tours, but I never heard what came of the trip. Did the sump go anywhere? Charles On Sat, Jul 3, 2010 at 11:41 AM, Scott Kyle sk...@cascadecaverns.com wrote: We've got the rest of the Summer open to all who'd like to come and help clean, install lighting and do a little exploring as well. It's really starting to look good. Go to: http://www.doodle.com/bah4t9d7r2657sw2 and sign up for mornings and/or afternoons. Ideally two or more folks will be there at the same time - and that can be designed through the scheduling tool linked above. Scott Kyle (804)402-8985 Cascade Caverns
RE: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install
Ok. I'll plan on coming over there to help out on Saturday. What time are planning on getting started? _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Monday, August 30, 2010 12:55 AM To: Marvin Lisa Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install Heya Marvin, long time no talk. I won't be at the cave until Saturday, will be driving in late Friday night. I should be there all day Sat and Sun. Any help would be greatly appreciated. On Sun, Aug 29, 2010 at 8:48 PM, Marvin Lisa mlmil...@gvtc.com wrote: Charles, Are you going to be there starting Friday or Saturday? I'm thinking about spending a day over there helping out. -Marvin Miller _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Saturday, August 28, 2010 11:43 AM To: Cavetex Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I'll be at Cascade Caverns over labor day weekend working on the lights again. If anyone is interested in helping out with the project, please let me know. This is a great way to get out of the heat and underground. I know a few months ago that a film and dive crew went down to the lower cave that is off-trail from the tours, but I never heard what came of the trip. Did the sump go anywhere? Charles On Sat, Jul 3, 2010 at 11:41 AM, Scott Kyle sk...@cascadecaverns.com wrote: We've got the rest of the Summer open to all who'd like to come and help clean, install lighting and do a little exploring as well. It's really starting to look good. Go to: http://www.doodle.com/bah4t9d7r2657sw2 and sign up for mornings and/or afternoons. Ideally two or more folks will be there at the same time - and that can be designed through the scheduling tool linked above. Scott Kyle (804)402-8985 Cascade Caverns
RE: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install
Charles, Are you going to be there starting Friday or Saturday? I'm thinking about spending a day over there helping out. -Marvin Miller _ From: Charles Goldsmith [mailto:wo...@justfamily.org] Sent: Saturday, August 28, 2010 11:43 AM To: Cavetex Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Cave Lighting Install I'll be at Cascade Caverns over labor day weekend working on the lights again. If anyone is interested in helping out with the project, please let me know. This is a great way to get out of the heat and underground. I know a few months ago that a film and dive crew went down to the lower cave that is off-trail from the tours, but I never heard what came of the trip. Did the sump go anywhere? Charles On Sat, Jul 3, 2010 at 11:41 AM, Scott Kyle sk...@cascadecaverns.com wrote: We've got the rest of the Summer open to all who'd like to come and help clean, install lighting and do a little exploring as well. It's really starting to look good. Go to: http://www.doodle.com/bah4t9d7r2657sw2 and sign up for mornings and/or afternoons. Ideally two or more folks will be there at the same time - and that can be designed through the scheduling tool linked above. Scott Kyle (804)402-8985 Cascade Caverns
RE: [Texascavers] Re: Rebecca
-Original Message- From: Chris Vreeland [mailto:cvreel...@austin.rr.com] Sent: Sunday, June 06, 2010 4:14 PM To: TEXAS CAVERS Subject: Re: [Texascavers] Re: Rebecca I hadn't heard about her illness, either. Rebecca I had some great times down at Govt. Canyon in years past -- she was the only person I know of so far who's managed to make it past the tight squeeze at the bottom of Lost Pothole. She was a great caver fine human being who will be terribly missed by me. Fran, I'm so sorry for your loss. On Jun 5, 2010, at 7:12 PM, Logan McNatt wrote: This is very sad and shocking news. I did not know Rebecca was sick. My sincere condolences to Fran and Rebecca's families and friends. Logan bcow...@satx.rr.com wrote: A lot of folks are asking for more info on Rebecca-O'Daniel- Hutchins. I included her previous last name as some folks don't recognize her as Hutchins. Fran will meet with the minister again on monday and will finalize everything. He is pushing for a service on June 19th a Saturday, hopefully around 10:30 am with a snack time following the service in the FellowShip hall. The service will only be the service with no speaches just the service. Those wishing to express there feelings can do so at the wake following the service .Services will be held at the Alamo Heights Presp. Church on Broadway. I'll try my best to keep everyone informed. It was requested by Rebecca prior to her passing that any money for flowers should be donated to TCMA. - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
[Texascavers] Government Canyon karst project
The Government Canyon karst project is happening next weekend - the 29th and 30th. You can pick your own dig or your own area to ridgewalk - and there are caves to explore and survey. We will meet at 9:00 both mornings in the parking lot of the Volunteer/Research Station. Camping is available. Contact me to set it up. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
RE: [Texascavers] The Caves of Muzquiz: Documentary
Michael, This is a great video. Thanks for sharing it. -Original Message- From: texascavers-return-14325-mlmiller=gvtc@texascavers.com [mailto:texascavers-return-14325-mlmiller=gvtc@texascavers.com] On Behalf Of Michael Pugliese Sent: Sunday, April 04, 2010 2:42 AM To: texascavers@texascavers.com Subject: [Texascavers] The Caves of Muzquiz: Documentary Long time reader, very sparse poster. Thanks for watching! This is a short 18 minute documentary from my perspective as a caver and cinematographer. I wanted to convey the feelings of being deep underground in the vertical caves of northern Mexico, and show the scientists and explorers who find value in their study. Narration is by project leader and geologist Peter Sprouse. Produced in conjunction with the Association for Mexican Cave Studies, a non-profit project of the National Speleological Society. I had the sensitivity of the 5DmkII camera on my side, as I was able to shoot the underground scenes using only headlamp illumination. In my opinion, the result is a more accurate feel for how we cavers experience the cave, Our field of view is narrowed, and the lights of our buddies create texture and beautiful highlights. That extra sensitivity of a few hundred ASA gave me a finished product with a very respectable noise level. I had a lot of fun shooting this, and I hope you enjoy it. http://vimeo.com/10656728 Michael Pugliese Axios Advertising Director of Photography (570)898-3011 www.mpcine.com - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
[Texascavers] Government Canyon schedule change
The April 25th date that was announced as the next scheduled trip to Government Canyon SNA for the karst survey project is in conflict with another local San Antonio caving project - the Rancho Diana karst survey organized by Joe Mitchell. Therefore the April karst survey at Government Canyon is cancelled and I am going to help out Joe at Rancho Diana. I encourage anyone who was planning on coming to Government Canyon to do the same. The projects are very similar in terms of goals and activities. Contact Joe Mitchell for details: joe-evel...@satx.rr.com - Marvin Miller
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Schedule
The schedule for the karst project at Government Canyon for the next few months is as follows: April 25 (Sunday only) May 29, 30 June 26 (Saturday only) After June we'll take a break for the summer. Reminders will appear as the dates approach. I hope to see everyone at convention, -Marvin
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
This is a reminder that this month's Government Canyon Karst Project is coming up soon, on the 20th and 21st. We have some interesting digs that we are working on, caves to explore and survey, and vertical and horizontal caves to push. Of course, there are always more caves waiting to be found in virgin ridgewalk territory. Camping is available. Contact me to set it up. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. -Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
RE: [Texascavers] In-cave Survey/sketch computers
The one person that I have heard a lot from with regard to this kind of thing is Mark Passerby. His website is http://cavediggers.com/. The link entitled ICDS The Equip. Process seems like a good place to start. -Marvin -Original Message- From: texascavers-return-13680-mlmiller=gvtc@texascavers.com [mailto:texascavers-return-13680-mlmiller=gvtc@texascavers.com] On Behalf Of Travis Scott Sent: Sunday, February 14, 2010 5:45 PM To: Texascavers Subject: [Texascavers] In-cave Survey/sketch computers Howdy yonder cavers, I have an inquiry that I wish to pull from your collective knowledge. I would like to know what the best system for in-cave sketching using a hand-held device. One that allows you to input the survey points and sketch over top of the line plots (plan and profile) and essentially create a quasi finalized digital map while in the cave. A quick internet search reveals the freeware Auriga coupled with a palm pilot. Has anyone used this system? Have any review or critiques to offer? Is there a better system or software that you would suggest? Or are systems like these simply not very popular because they don't necessarily work as well as the old method of sketching on paper and digitizing it later? If anyone has any experience with this sort of thing or know of someone who uses these systems, please let me know. Thank you! -- Travis Scott 979.450.0103 Cell tra...@oztotl.com - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
[Texascavers] Government Canyon
This is a reminder that the next project weekend for the Government Canyon Karst Project is just a week away, Feb. 20th and 21st. We will meet in the parking lot of the Volunteer/Research Station at 9:00 both mornings. Camping is available. Contact me if you want to camp. Directions to the Government Canyon Karst Project: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
[Texascavers] Government Canyon this weekend
This is just a reminder that a Government Canyon project trip is scheduled for this Sunday. We will meet in the parking lot at 9:00. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet Marvin Miller (210) 415-5190
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project dates
Cavers, There will be no scheduled weekend in December for the Government Canyon Karst Project. The dates scheduled for the first three months of 2010 are: January 17 (Sunday only) February 20, 21 March 20, 21 Put these dates on your calendars. Reminders will be sent out several weeks ahead of time. Contact me, Marvin Miller, with any questions. 830-885-5631 (home) 210-415-5190 (cell)
[Texascavers] lunar lava tubes
First Moon Skylight Found -- Could House Lunar Base? http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/10/091026-moon-skylight-lunar-b ase.html
[Texascavers] job listing
Jobs TPWD Job Posting 10-05-032 Park Ranger III (Resource Assistant) Additional vacancies that occur during this posting will be filled with the pool of applicants within this posting period. * NOTE: TEMPORARY FULL TIME POSITION FUNDED THROUGH AUGUST 20, 2014. CONTINUATION OF THIS POSITION BEYOND AUGUST 20, 2014 IS DEPENDENT UPON FUNDING. * Position Title: Park Ranger III (Resource Assistant) * Posting Number: 10-05-032 * Posted: October 1, 2009 * Closes: 5 p.m. October 14, 2009 * Class/Salary Group: 2697/A11 * Salary: $2,412.58/Mo. * Division: State Parks * Position Location: Government Canyon State Natural Area, 12861 Galm Rd., San Antonio, TX 78254 * Hiring Contact: Niki Lake * Phone: 210/688-9055 * Fax: 210/688-9060 * E-Mail: mailto:niki.l...@tpwd.state.tx.us niki.l...@tpwd.state.tx.us * General Position Description: Responsible to the Government Canyon State Natural Area (SNA) Park Specialist I/Park Resource Specialist/Interpreter, the Resource Assistant will be responsible for endangered species monitoring and preservation (including the Karst Management and Maintenance Plan/KMMP), invasive/exotic species control and monitoring, interpretation and educational programming and other matters relating to the natural/cultural resources to include weed and brush control through use of chainsaw and participation with prescribed fires. Assists in annual monitoring sensitive archeological sites. Researches and develops resource based educational programs, exhibits, tours, guide service program, and outreach programs based on the interpretive master plan, the KMMP and the Annual Archeological Evaluation Plan of the natural area and its mission. Assists, in concert with the SNA Interpreters, with marketing, promotions, special events and daily oversight of volunteer programs training and management. Maintains and develops research, administrative and interpretive files. Assists with matters relating to the preservation of the natural and cultural resources coordinating with natural area staff, regional resource specialist, and TPWD. Assists in the management of resource-oriented research projects, park maintenance operations, visitor services, operation of visitor center and park store operations as needed or required. Provides high quality customer service through greeting visitors, collecting fees and park store operations. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division, and branch rules, regulations, and procedures. * Working Conditions: (1) Fulltime temporary position, funded through August 20, 2014. Employment beyond the August 20, 2014 is dependent upon funding; (2) Forty hours per week, hours other than 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with days off other than Saturday, Sunday and holidays; (3) Required to perform duties outdoors in all types of weather, as well as in non-climate controlled buildings; (4) Required to work with varied and diverse segments of the public as well as fellow employees; (5) Non-smoking work environment in all State buildings and vehicles; (6) Must be able to perform strenuous climbing and crawling; (7) Required to work in caves with potentially claustrophobic conditions; (8) Required to travel with occasional overnight stays. * Minimum Qualifications: * Education: High School Diploma or GED. * Experience: Three years experience in (a) natural/cultural resource management; or (b) interpretation or education; or (c) general maintenance. NOTE: Experience may have occurred concurrently. Acceptable Substitutions: Thirty semester hours from an accredited college or university may substitute for one year of the required experience, with a maximum substitution of two years. Preferred Qualifications: (1) Experience with Natural and Cultural Resource Management; (2) Experience with Customer Service; (3) Experience caving. * License/Certifications: (1) Must possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days of employment, a valid Class C Texas Driver's License; (2) Must possess or be able to obtain, within six months of employment, a valid Non-commercial Pesticide Applicator License (Rules Regulations, Weed/Brush Control and Roadways) through the Texas Department of Agriculture; (3) Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, a valid Wildland Firefighter Type II certification under the Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification System Guide and TPWD standards. NOTE: Retention of position is contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license. Preferred Qualifications: CPR/First Aid * Selection Criteria: * Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: (1) Knowledge of general facility and grounds maintenance; (2) Knowledge of park administration and operations; (3) Knowledge of natural and cultural resource management; (4) Knowledge of interpretation/education programs; (5) Knowledge of Karst and Cave
[Texascavers] Government Canyon caving
Cavers, The Miller family sojourn to Nashville, TN has come to an end and we are thankfully back in the great state of Texas. This means that I am preparing to restart the Government Canyon Karst Survey. The first weekend planned for the project is November 7 and 8. Since you haven't heard about it in awhile, here is a little background: Government Canyon State Natural Area is located about 20 miles NW of San Antonio near the town of Helotes. The SNA contains approximately 8624 acres, all but 700 of which are in the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone. The karst survey, a project of the Texas Speleological Association, has been ongoing since 1993 with the goal of locating and documenting all of the caves and karst features on the property. 47 caves are currently known along with several hundred features. A number of these features have existing digs with some potential to lead into a cave. Less than half the property has been systematically surveyed. The project is strongly supported by SNA management and staff. Caves are both vertical and horizontal. The longest cave so far is Dancing Rattler Cave at 225 meters long and the deepest is Lost Pothole at 23 meters deep. Both of these caves have leads that need to be pushed. The terrain is rugged and the brush is thick. If you come, be prepared to do a lot of hiking and bushwhacking, carrying food and water with you. All skill levels are welcome! There is plenty to do! We will meet at 9:00 both mornings in the parking lot at the Volunteer/Research Station. Camping is available but you need to contact me to get the details. Directions: Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. -Marvin Miller (210)-415-5190
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project on indefinite hold
Cavers, I have taken a temporary work assignment in Nashville, TN. The contract will last at least through the end of the year, maybe longer. I am taking my family with me but we are keeping our house in Spring Branch and hope to return and be Texas residents again. Until I return the Government Canyon Karst Survey Project will be on hiatus. If any of you regulars out there have an ongoing project at the Canyon that you would like to finish in the meantime please contact me and I will arrange things with park management. I will continue to monitor this e-mail address and texascavers. There's some good caving to be done around Nashville, I hear. See you all at the convention. Marvin Miller
[Texascavers] Government Canyon
This is a reminder that next weekend, the 15th and 16th, is the next Government Canyon Karst Project. We will be surveying, digging, and ridgewalking. We will meet in the parking area of the Volunteer/Research Station as described below at 9:00 and head out about 9:30. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631
[Texascavers] TSA Convention Photo Salon
Folks, It looks like I will be handling both salons this year at the Kerrville convention. Details, rules, and entry forms for photos and for maps are posted on the TSA web site (follow convention links). Maps do not require entry forms. Last year there was only one submission in the easiest of all photo categories - digital. This one requires very little effort so let's see some photos. If you really want your photo noticed, however, print it and mount it. There is always a crowd looking at the mounted photographs. I'm anticipating some great competition and a great convention. See you in Kerrville, Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631
[Texascavers] TSA Convention Map Salon
To all you cave map makers, I have been asked to coordinate the map salon for the upcoming TSA Spring Convention being held on April 5 6 at Kerrville-Schreiner Park in Kerrville. Details are online at http://www.cavetexas.org/events/mapsalon.html. If you need information that is not posted on the website please contact me. Pull out those dusty survey notes, draft the map, and bring it to the convention! You still have more than a month - time enough! The First-time Cartographer category gives those that meet the criteria an excellent opportunity to be recognized and receive a nice reward for their work. I'll see you in Kerrville, Marvin Miller
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
Get out your calendars. There will be no Government Canyon Karst Project scheduled for January or February. The next scheduled weekend for the project is March 15th and 16th. I will send a reminder when we get closer to that date. -Marvin Miller
[Texascavers] Government Canyon
This past weekend was a full one at Government Canyon. Kurt Menking led a team to dig on a promising sink and the dig continues. Niki Lake and I, along with the Scalercio family and my daughter, Christin, were followed around on Saturday by a duo of French filmmakers. They were gathering footage for a Texas-themed episode of a French television series entitled Guardians of Nature. We took them to Government Canyon Bat Cave and then up the canyon to an ongoing dig that we worked on for an hour or two. On Sunday, Harry Goepel and I attacked several digging leads in Dancing Rattler Cave, took all of them to the point of seeing it was obvious that the passage didn't go, and finally decided that the cave was finished - survey complete - at 225 meters of length. The next karst project trip to the Canyon is scheduled for December 16th. There will not be a January trip. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. We meet at 9:00 and head out around 9:30. See you there. - Marvin
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
Just a reminder that the November karst project weekend at Government Canyon State Natural Area is scheduled for the 17th and 18th. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see the sign for GCSNA. Follow the arrow to the right and drive 2 more miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. Contact me if you want to camp. Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The dates for the rest of the year for the Government Canyon Karst Survey Project are as follows: October 28 November 17, 18 December 16 Ridgewalking, digging leads, and surveying caves are all on the agenda. Camping is available. Contact me for details. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles till you see a sign for Government Canyon State Natural Area. Turn right following the sign and drive 2 miles to the gate of GCSNA. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. We will meet at 9:00 each morning -Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631
RE: [Texascavers] radon
And then there's the Radon Health Mine: http://www.radonmine.com/ Actually, searching on radon mine brings up a number of these establishments. -Marvin Miller -Original Message- From: Bill Mixon [mailto:bmixon...@austin.rr.com] Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2007 10:48 AM To: CaveTex Subject: [Texascavers] radon I seem to get my NSS and TSA mail later than most people. I know in the case of the latest TC it was because my illiterate rural carrier first delivered it to the right number on the wrong street. This has happened several times. Anyway, I haven't seen the new NSS journal yet, but, yes, that radon business is _very_ old news. I doubt that Malcolm Field has anything much new to contribute, calculus or not. (He's the editor of the journal. I wonder if I will conclude that that's why the article got in it.) Nobody except possibly show-cave guides has anything to worry about, and even for them it's hardly a problem unless they also smoke. But some of those who have been convinced that radiation is like bullets--you don't want to get in the way of any at all--do worry about it. I recall that many years ago the bureaucrats in charge of permits to visit Horsethief Cave in Wyoming were keeping records of every visitor to that wild cave and how long they'd spent in various parts of the cave, so as to be able to watch out for radon overexposure. Whether they're still wasting our money on that I have no idea. --Bill Mixon --- You may Reply to the address from which this message was sent, but note the following permanent addresses for long-term use: Personal: bmi...@alumni.uchicago.edu AMCS: edi...@amcs-pubs.org, sa...@amcs-pubs.org - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The Government Canyon Karst Project will resume on the weekend of September 15th and 16th. The project is a good place to learn basic caving skills and get to know other cavers. All skill levels are needed. There are caves that need to be surveyed and digs that need to be pushed. There are thousands of acres of ridges to walk. The chances of finding your own cave are very good if you are persistent. Some of the goals of this trip are to continue the survey of Dancing Rattler Cave, find the source of all the air coming out of Dancing Fern Cave and push a grim dig lead in the cave, re-survey Purple Mushroom Cave and push the drain at the bottom, and ridgewalk a very promising area of the park. Camping is available in the secluded volunteer campground. Contact me if you want to camp. -Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631
[Texascavers] S. A. Cave Rescue
Spelunker rescue!!! 'They could have lost their lives,' Jenkins said. The incident reported in the article at the following link took place in Labyrinth Cave in San Antonio. http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/crime/stories/MYSA051207caverescue.E-N.6059 1ab8.html
[Texascavers] more on S.A. cave rescue
Regarding the rescue of three youths from Labyrinth Cave in San Antonio, see also http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/metro/stories/MYSA051307.02B.cave_rescue.30 ed483.html.
[Texascavers] Government Canyon karst survey project
The May date for the Government Canyon Karst Survey Project is the 26th and 27th, Memorial Day weekend. I know that will probably eliminate the weekend for those who already have plans, but it may open up the opportunity to attend the project for out-of-towners. Camping will be available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and you can return home with a leisurely Monday drive to just about anywhere in the state. There are caves to survey - both vertical and horizontal, sinks to be dug, and ridges to be walked. Come and join in the fun! Contact me if you want to camp and I will forward the necessary info. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles to Galm Road. (Old San Antonio city maps may show another Galm Road less than half a mile past the Shell. This road is now named something else. Ignore and keep on to the real Galm Road.) Turn right on Galm Road and drive 2 miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the Volunteer/Research Station, where we will meet. -Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631
RE: [Texascavers] San Antonio Grotto Meetings
The information is on the TSA webpage: Second and Fourth Mondays, 7:00 PM; Chester's Hamburgers, 281 North @ Thousand Oaks, San Antonio, TX. _ From: Marlena Cobb [mailto:marlenac...@hotmail.com] Sent: Monday, April 30, 2007 4:01 PM To: texascavers@texascavers.com Subject: [Texascavers] San Antonio Grotto Meetings Can anyone tell me where the San Antonio/Bexar County Grotto meetings are held and when? Thanks for the help, ~Marlena ___ It may be that the satisfaction I need depends on my going away, so that when I've gone and come back, I'll find it at home.-Rumi _ Download http://g.msn.com/8HMAENUS/2740??PS=47575 Messenger. Join the i'm Initiative. Help make a difference today. - Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
The January Government Canyon Karst Project will take place on the 14th and 15th. Plans are to continue the dig in Fobia Cave - following the airflow, continue a new sinkhole dig that looks promising, survey Sotol Pit and Purple Mushroom Cave, and if we have any time or energy left, do some ridgewalking. You can assist in any one or all of these things by showing up on Saturday morning. Directions are below. Camping is available at the volunteer campground. Contact me to arrange that. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles to Galm Road. (Old San Antonio city maps may show another Galm Road less than half a mile past the Shell. This road is now named something else. Ignore and keep on to the real Galm Road.) Turn right on Galm Road and drive 2 miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right. There is an unlocked gate that will need to be opened and then closed behind you. Continue to the ranch house, where we will meet. -Marvin Miller ___ Texascavers mailing list Texascavers@texascavers.com http://texascavers.com/mailman/listinfo/texascavers_texascavers.com
CaveTex: Government Canyon September 17
There will be a karst project trip to Government Canyon State Natural Area near San Antonio on September 17th. The focus will probably be on digging sinks but there are also caves to survey and ridges to walk. If you don't like digging bring a team and do something else. Camping is available. Contact me for details. We will meet at the gate at 9:00 on Saturday morning. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles to Galm Road. (Old San Antonio city maps may show another Galm Road less than half a mile past the Shell. This road is now named something else. Ignore and keep on to the real Galm Road.) Turn right on Galm Road and drive 2 miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Park on the wide gravel shoulder and wait; we will all go in together. -Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631 To unsubscribe, send an e-mail to mailto:majord...@cavetex.net with the following message--unsubscribe cavetex. For help and information go to www.cavetex.net. List administrator: mailto:jswh...@cavetex.net
CaveTex: Government Canyon this weekend
A Sunday (Sept. 18th) trip has been added to the Government Canyon Karst Project this weekend. Meet at the gate as usual at 9:00. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles to Galm Road. (Old San Antonio city maps may show another Galm Road less than half a mile past the Shell. This road is now named something else. Ignore and keep on to the real Galm Road.) Turn right on Galm Road and drive 2 miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Park on the wide gravel shoulder and wait; we will all go in together. -Marvin To unsubscribe, send an e-mail to mailto:majord...@cavetex.net with the following message--unsubscribe cavetex. For help and information go to www.cavetex.net. List administrator: mailto:jswh...@cavetex.net
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Karst Project
There will not be a Government Canyon Karst Project weekend in October. The next one will be scheduled for November 12 and 13. The park is opening to the public on October 15. This will mean some changes for the project but mostly logistical, I think. We will continue pursuing all the activities we have in the past, as there is still lots to do. Directions to the Canyon are below and I will get back with more information later. Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles to Galm Road. (Old San Antonio city maps may show another Galm Road less than half a mile past the Shell. This road is now named something else. Ignore and keep on to the real Galm Road.) Turn right on Galm Road and drive 2 miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Marvin Miller (830) 885-5631 ___ Texascavers mailing list Texascavers@texascavers.com http://mail.texascavers.com/mailman/listinfo/texascavers_texascavers.com
[Texascavers] Government Canyon Nov. 11, 12
November 11 12 is the next Government Canyon Karst Project weekend. The park is now open to the public so there will be some changes. We will no longer meet at the gate. When you get to the park, simply enter by the park entrance. Take the first right. There may be a closed gate on this road but it won't be locked. Go through the gate and continue to the ranch house. We will meet on the porch at about 9:00. We will probably get organized and head out by 9:30. Directions to the park are below. The Canyon is only open for day use. The caver campground will continue to be the volunteer campground by the ranch house. If you want to camp you still need to contact me because the gate on the ranch house road will be locked at night. Dogs are not allowed on the recharge zone trails - even on leashes (park policy). Directions to the gate of GCSNA. Find the intersection of U.S. 16 and Loop 1604 in northwest Bexar County (clearly shown on any state highway map). Drive 2 miles north on U.S. 16 to the third traffic light and turn left onto FM 1560 (there is a Shell station on the corner). Follow 1560 for 3 miles to Galm Road. (Old San Antonio city maps may show another Galm Road less than half a mile past the Shell. This road is now named something else. Ignore and keep on to the real Galm Road.) Turn right on Galm Road and drive 2 miles to the sharp left turn in the road. The gate to GCSNA is straight ahead. Enter at the gate and then take the first right and continue to the ranch house, where we will meet. ___ Texascavers mailing list Texascavers@texascavers.com http://mail.texascavers.com/mailman/listinfo/texascavers_texascavers.com
[Texascavers] Government Canyon
The karst project at Government Canyon is on the 12th and 13th, rather than the 11th and 12th. I should also mention that the gate on the ranch house road, while not locked, will probably be shut. If this is the case, please shut it again behind you when you come through. -Marvin ___ Texascavers mailing list Texascavers@texascavers.com http://mail.texascavers.com/mailman/listinfo/texascavers_texascavers.com
CaveTex: Devil's Sinkhole
This is a little late, but kudos to Kurt Menking and Travis Scott for each having a photograph of Devil's Sinkhole published in last Sunday's (7/3) San Antonio Express News Travel Section. The article's topic was the sinkhole and the bat flights and the growing tourism industry in Rocksprings centered around the cave and associated State Natural Area. Kurt's photo is the classic in-cave shot looking up the breakdown mountain and out the entrance with some cavers in the foreground. Travis's photo shows TPWD ranger Mike Knezek rappelling into the cave. I believe Mike is the SNA manager. -Marvin Miller To unsubscribe, send an e-mail to mailto:majord...@cavetex.net with the following message--unsubscribe cavetex. For help and information go to www.cavetex.net. List administrator: mailto:jswh...@cavetex.net
