texascavers Digest 23 Mar 2012 20:31:03 -0000 Issue 1519 Topics (messages 19742 through 19749):
James Tabor fiction book
19742 by: Mixon Bill
Comment to recent article in Caving News
19743 by: R D Milhollin
OT - Young Farmer Grant Program
19744 by: germanyj.aol.com
OT - FEMA Video On Houston Toad Monitoring Operation Focuses On Survivor
Recovery
19745 by: germanyj.aol.com
New Texas Flood Maps
19746 by: germanyj.aol.com
19748 by: Mark Minton
TSA Spring Convention-One Week Away! March 30-April 1st, Boerne, TX
19747 by: ellie watson
March CBSP Project report
19749 by: Jim Kennedy
Administrivia:
To subscribe to the digest, e-mail:
<texascavers-digest-subscr...@texascavers.com>
To unsubscribe from the digest, e-mail:
<texascavers-digest-unsubscr...@texascavers.com>
To post to the list, e-mail:
<texascavers@texascavers.com>
----------------------------------------------------------------------
--- Begin Message --- James Tabor, notorious author of the (more or less) non-fiction book Blind Descent about exploration of deep caves, has produced a fiction thriller on a similar topic."In this gripping debut thriller from James M. Tabor, a brilliant and beautiful scientist and a mysterious special ops soldier must lead a team deep into the Earth on a desperate hunt for the cure to a deadly epidemic.""The Deep Zone" HB $26 ($16.80 from Amazon), Kindle $12.99, to be published April 3. The title smells like a ripoff of "The Hot Zone."Considering how he described the explorations of Huautla and Krubera, I shudder to think what he has written when frankly trying to create a thriller. Still, with his knowledge of caving, maybe it won't be as completely silly as some recent movies about caving adventures.Stay tuned for a review. -- Mixon ---------------------------------------- The winner of the rat race is still a rat. ---------------------------------------- You may "reply" to the address this message came from, but for long-term use, save: Personal: bmi...@alumni.uchicago.edu AMCS: edi...@amcs-pubs.org or sa...@amcs-pubs.org
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---All, there was a recent article describing a diver death in Florida's Vortex Spring. Here is the link: http://cavingnews.com/20120320-another-tragedy-at-floridas-vortex-spring-cave-diving?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cavingnews+%28Caving+News%29 Here is a comment I submitted to the editors of Caving News regarding the first line of the article: "I wish your copy writer would choose language other than "... cave claims another victim...). The word "claim" implies volition, as if the cave has a choice in who enters and who it will kill. The cave does not have a choice in who enters, and certainly there is no action the cave can take to determine who it eats and who gets lucky and cheats death another time. "Diver dies while exploring cave", "(certified or uncertified) Diver drowns in cave", or even "Death in Florida underwater cave" all are more neutral and leave out the implication that these caves are somehow involved in causing diver deaths. Are underwater caves inherently dangerous? Absolutely, but proper training, guided and gradually acquired experience, and regular practice allow a diver willing to take the risk to significantly increase the possibility of surviving exposure to this mostly unforgiving environment." I have no issues with the overall intent of the Caving News mission to disseminate news of interest for cavers, to cavers. In fact I roundly applaud their efforts, and the idea of a formal memorandum of understanding between CN and the NSS. However, the language used in the article to describe this cave diving accident has been used over many years and has (probably unintentionally in many cases) influenced the public (mis)understanding of the nature of many cave diver deaths. Importantly, the article the report was based on was reproduced from a local newspaper, but it appears the language I am referring to was from Caving News staff. It might have helped to add to understanding of this tragedy if there had been mention made as to whether any of the accepted rules of cave diving "accident analysis" were violated (was the diver trained and diving within associated limits, sufficient breathing systems and reserves, etc.). Within a few minutes after sending in my comment the Caving News staff replied: Point taken. There was no intention to vilify Vortex Spring, or any other cave for that matter. Thanks for the comment. I appreciate this quick response, and recommend a Caving News subscription as a great resource for interested cavers. RD Milhollin
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---Hi Y'all! This may be better suited for FB, but I can't access it right now, and those who might be interested in this are on this list anyway..... The Texas Dept of Agriculture offers matching (1:1) grants in the range of $5-$10K twice a year to young folk between the ages of 18-45 who are starting or expanding an agricultural enterprise. I immediately thought of Wes and Alia, tho I am not sure of their ultimate goals, this might be up your alley. Anyway, check out the link for more info: http://www.texasagriculture.gov/GrantsServices/RuralEconomicDevelopment/TexasAgriculturalFinanceAuthority/YoungFarmerGrant.aspx And, if anyone out there is interested in this, and you need some assistance with the application process, let me know and I will lend a hand. Feel free to forward to non-cavers as well. The current application period is 04/02-05/04/12 julia
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=61546 FEMA Video On Houston Toad Monitoring Operation Focuses On Survivor Recovery Release Date: March 22, 2012 Release Number: 4029-107 » More Information on Texas Wildfires AUSTIN, Texas — The Federal Emergency Management Agency has just released a short video detailing a project in Bastrop County to monitor for the endangered Houston toad while pushing forward with survivor recovery from the Labor Day 2011 wildfires. The 5 1/2-minute video, “Monitoring for the Endangered Houston Toad in Texas,” features scenes of hazardous tree cutting and debris removal operations that are under way as part of Bastrop County’s recovery. Also included is footage of a female juvenile Houston toad that was removed from a debris pile and safely relocated outside of the severe burn zone. The video, posted on FEMA’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/watch?v=gf2ikf65vyU), presents commentary from Bastrop County and FEMA officials, and from several professional biologists who are serving as Houston toad monitors, including Dr. Mike Forstner, a Texas State University biology professor who has spent more than a decade and a half studying and developing management protocols for the Houston toad. “The citizens of Bastrop County pride themselves on a rural lifestyle with rural values,” Forstner says in the video. “The reason they moved to Bastrop County is because it looks a certain way. Maintaining that look maintains the habitat for the Houston Toad. And if we are able to do those two things, toads and people will continue to recover in the county.” Kevin Hannes, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer for the wildfire recovery mission, explains that FEMA is obligated under the federal Endangered Species Act to ensure federally funded recovery projects do not jeopardize an endangered species or its habitat. The challenge was to keep survivor recovery moving forward and yet meet that obligation. “We only had two options,” says Hannes. “One was to stop work completely during the chorusing season, while the toad was active. That was not a viable option. Or we could agree to find a way to protect the toad while we continued the work.” The answer, reached through a collaborative effort among the state, federal and local stakeholders, was to bring in highly qualified biologists to monitor for the toad. The successful result is that each day brings progress toward survivor and Bastrop County recovery. “We are working together really in the spirit of cooperation between all the agencies. And it’s great team work,” Ronnie Moore, Bastrop County director of planning and project management, says in the video. Texans can follow FEMA tweets about the wildfire recovery effort at www.twitter.com/femaregion6. Other online resources are http://blog.fema.gov and www.facebook.com/fema.
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---HI Y'all! Flood Insurance Rate Maps, known as FIRMs, are used to determine the potential for flooding in a given area. They were created by the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) in the late 1970's when it became clear that too many people were building in areas that repetitively or even severely flood because most people do not understand their local geology/hydrology and how it will affect them - especially in a 100-year event. These maps have not been updated since 1999 and with so much development taking place since then, and with global warming causing more severe storms, it has become clear that these maps had to be updated to better protect homeowners and the NFIP. Throughout the end of last year and all of this year, new maps are being presented county-by-county for public input. Texas is in FEMA Region VI, which covers states other than Texas. The press release below is for Llano County. If you follow the first link below: 2012 Region VI News Releases, you will see all the counties that they have addressed this year. If I remember right, they also recently opened the Comal Co map up for public discussion as well. Most importantly to you, the homeowner, is to determine if your property will be in a new flood zone, which will significantly increase your flood insurance cost. Looks like, if you contact them before the new maps go into effect, you can grandfather your property to protect you from a rate increase. Be sure to check out the link below: http://maps.riskmap6.com/TX/Llano/ - it's way cool to play with! You can choose different layers and really see where the water is located. It's fun! julia _____________________________________________________ http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=61405 Public Encouraged To View Flood Maps in Llano County, Texas New Llano County, Texas Flood Maps to Become Effective in less than two Months Release Date: March 16, 2012 Release Number: R6-12-063 » 2012 Region VI News Releases DENTON, Texas -- In two short months, Llano County, Texas will have final flood maps that show the most current flood risks, giving homeowners, renters and business owners the information they need to make informed decisions. Local officials and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) expect the maps to become effective on May 2, 2012. In the meantime, everyone is encouraged to review the maps now in order to determine their flood risks. “When you know your risks, you can do something about it,” said FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Russell. “We’ve been working very closely with state and local officials on updating the flood maps and want to be sure the “Whole Community” is involved in the process.” Anyone who hasn’t had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings or to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their local floodplain administrator (FPA) who is most likely located at City Hall or the local courthouse. Meanwhile, FEMA Map specialists are available to answer questions about the new maps. They can be reached by phone and online chat: To see the changes since the last FIRM, visit maps.riskmap6.com/TX/Llano/ To use the live chat service, visit go.usa.gov/r6C. Click on the “Live Chat” icon. To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to femamapspecial...@riskmapcds.com. Everyone is also encouraged to learn more about flood insurance by visiting www.floodsmart.gov or calling 1-888-379-9531. FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message --- I can just hear the property-rights advocates howling. The last time I remember flood plains being redrawn in Texas, there was an outcry from people who wanted to develop their land and claimed the government was "taking" the value of their land by classifying it in a flood plain and thus unsuitable for building. As I recall some lines were redrawn less conservatively as a result. I hope the insurance industry is powerful enough and wise enough to fight off such attacks. Everyone who has insurance has a stake in the outcome.Mark At 12:11 PM 3/23/2012, germa...@aol.com wrote:HI Y'all!Flood Insurance Rate Maps, known as FIRMs, are used to determine the potential for flooding in a given area. They were created by the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) in the late 1970's when it became clear that too many people were building in areas that repetitively or even severely flood because most people do not understand their local geology/hydrology and how it will affect them - especially in a 100-year event.These maps have not been updated since 1999 and with so much development taking place since then, and with global warming causing more severe storms, it has become clear that these maps had to be updated to better protect homeowners and the NFIP.Throughout the end of last year and all of this year, new maps are being presented county-by-county for public input. Texas is in FEMA Region VI, which covers states other than Texas.The press release below is for Llano County. If you follow the first link below: 2012 Region VI News Releases, you will see all the counties that they have addressed this year. If I remember right, they also recently opened the Comal Co map up for public discussion as well.Most importantly to you, the homeowner, is to determine if your property will be in a new flood zone, which will significantly increase your flood insurance cost. Looks like, if you contact them before the new maps go into effect, you can grandfather your property to protect you from a rate increase.Be sure to check out the link below: http://maps.riskmap6.com/TX/Llano/ - it's way cool to play with! You can choose different layers and really see where the water is located. It's fun!julia _____________________________________________________ http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=61405 Public Encouraged To View Flood Maps in Llano County, Texas New Llano County, Texas Flood Maps to Become Effective in less than two Months Release Date: March 16, 2012 Release Number: R6-12-063 » 2012 Region VI News ReleasesDENTON, Texas -- In two short months, Llano County, Texas will have final flood maps that show the most current flood risks, giving homeowners, renters and business owners the information they need to make informed decisions.Local officials and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) expect the maps to become effective on May 2, 2012. In the meantime, everyone is encouraged to review the maps now in order to determine their flood risks."When you know your risks, you can do something about it," said FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Russell. "We've been working very closely with state and local officials on updating the flood maps and want to be sure the "Whole Community" is involved in the process."Anyone who hasn't had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings or to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their local floodplain administrator (FPA) who is most likely located at City Hall or the local courthouse.Meanwhile, FEMA Map specialists are available to answer questions about the new maps. They can be reached by phone and online chat:To see the changes since the last FIRM, visit maps.riskmap6.com/TX/Llano/To use the live chat service, visit go.usa.gov/r6C. Click on the "Live Chat" icon. To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to femamapspecial...@riskmapcds.com.Everyone is also encouraged to learn more about flood insurance by visiting www.floodsmart.gov or calling 1-888-379-9531. FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.Please reply to mmin...@caver.netPermanent email address is mmin...@illinoisalumni.org
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---*2012 TSA Spring Convention March 30-April 1st, 2012 Boerne, TX* http://www.cavetexas.org/events/TSASC/tsasc2012.html Hello Cavers! The Texas Speleological Association's annual Spring Convention is one week away and the party is almost starting! Spring has sprung in the Texas Hill Country and there are wildflowers for as far as the eye can see. I recently visited the Cascade Caverns campground and the place looks great! Rex the dinosaur is fresh and perky and ready for that kodak moment. *We have a huge, flat campground that is remote enough to enjoy clear, stary skies*and campfires are allowed. * The 1-hour cave tour will delight any caver with its unique formations, cathedral room, and lovable critters. *(The passages are smooth gravel and steps lead to cave. There are areas that require squatting or leaning over while walking because of low head clearance.) PLEASE NOTE: The presentations will be held at Geneva School of Boerne (113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Next week I will be sending out final details as well as a program with a detailed schedule for the weekend. Hope everyone is looking forward to a great weekend together in any kind of weather! Printable Location Map: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDQ2o3dVZ6SVlUZUtoZUVncWFvRk1oZw *THE DETAILS.... * This is an annual, technical meeting with formal presentations from cavers about cave sciences, exploration, project status and displays in the Map/Photo Salon. The TSA, founded in 1956, has been bringing Texas cavers together for over 50 years. Come and meet fellow cavers and project leaders from around the state. This is a great chance to get involved with ongoing projects and create future caving opportunities for all. Presentations will be on Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne beginning around 9am (113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Times/Schedule TBD. Thanks to Mallory Mayeux and Roger Moore for lining up a great selection of speakers and to all those who volunteered. Diana Tomchick: Winter Caving in China with the Hong Megui Cave Exploration Society: Entering the Year of the Dragon" Jim Kennedy: “Recent Progress of TSA’s Colorado Bend State Park Project.” Peter Sprouse: “Cartography of Wide-area Cave Systems in Quintana Roo" Edward Patrick: “In-situ Mass Spectrometry of Cave Atmospheres” Julia Germany/Gerry Geletzke: “Longhorn Cavern Restoration and Conservation Projects" Ben Hutchins: “The Edwards Aquifer: A Groundwater Refugium Supported by Allochthonous Production” Steve Webb: “Latest LED and battery technology” Ellie Watson: “Logan’s Cave Survey Project” Logan McNatt: “Finding the Deepest Pit in the World: Discovery and First Descent of El Sotano de El Barro, Mexico" Allan Cobb: “Fun Caving in Thailand!” Travis Scott/Jerry Atkinson: “Update on Porcupine Grotto Projects” Mustafa Saribudak: “Main Barton Springs Geophysics in Austin, TX: Where is all the spring water coming from into the Barton Springs Pool?” Don Arburn, donarb...@mac.com, is facilitating the Photo Salon and Marvin Miller, mlmil...@gvtc.com, is facilitating the Map Salon and I know many are eager to see caver's beautiful talents in the Salons. Deadline for entries is 10:00 am, Saturday, March 31st at Geneva School of Boerne (113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015). Please show off your photos and maps!! Don't forget to bring those excellent items for the TCMA Auction and your checkbook to take home treasures. *FEES*: *Registration* (Registration fee includes admission to presentations & supper on Saturday) $15.00 Individual Rate per person $10.00 Child Rate per child 12-16 years old $40.00 Family Rate (parents & children) Children 12 and under $free *Camping* $5.00 Camping per person/per night camping (children under 16 camp free) *PRESENTATION FACILITY for Saturday Meeting:* Geneva School of Boerne (113 Cascade Caverns Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015) -Arial view of facility(park anywhere): https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BzP7GaKdftjDY0NhYUxVYTJTNnlQNzFXZGE0azM4QQ -Presentation facility and campground are a little over 1 mile apart and the road good for a nice bicycle ride. Geneva School of Boerne has huge, empty parking lots if the kiddos want to play on their bikes. *CAMPGROUND for Friday-Sunday:* Cascade Caverns (226 Cascade Caverns Road, Boerne, Texas 78015) http://www.cascadecaverns.com/ -Full use of beautiful campground facilities for Sunday meetings, auction, and meals -Renovated showers/bathrooms -No attack dogs permitted on campground and all pets must remain on leash -Current photos of campground facilities: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150602639639506.386786.507449505&type=3&l=f86b9393ca -Free scheduled cave tour for all registered. *TENTATIVE SCHEDULE (this is not finalized):* *Friday, March 30th* 7pm - Registration at Cascade Caverns Campground (early arrival acceptable *Saturday, March 31st* 8am - Registration at Geneva School of Boerne 9am-5pm - Presentations at Geneva School of Boerne 10pm - Deadline for entries into Map & Photo Salon at Geneva School of Boerne 10am-4pm- Regular scheduled tour of Cascade Caverns (Tours at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm) 12pm-1:30pm - Lunch on own, salon viewing in facility, visit vendors outside of facility, Vertical Show & Tell 5pm or directly after talks- TSA meeting at Geneva School of Boerne 7pm - Group Feed at Cascade Caverns Campground catered by Spinelli's Vistro 8:30pm (or after everyone is good and fed) - TCMA Auction in Service Center at Cascade Caverns Campground The rest of the night: fun and hanging out, campfire at Cascade Caverns Campground *Sunday, April 1st* First thing- Easter egg hunt for the kids at Cascade Caverns Campground 8am - TCMA breakfast at Cascade Caverns Campground 9am- TCMA meeting at Cascade Caverns Campground 11am-4pm-regular scheduled tour of Cascade Caverns (Tours at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm) 2pm - Checkout time *PHOTO SALON DETAILS* *Categories* 1. Print 2. Digital *Entry requirements* Each photographer is limited to 2 entries. Entries in excess of 2 will not be displayed but not judged. Prints must measure at least 8 x 10 inches, but not larger than 20 x 24 inches. All entries must be mounted, but not framed. They may be matted at the discretion of the entrant. The prints title should appear either on the matte or on the mount directly below the print. The photographer must not be identified on the front of the matte or mount. The photographers name and the entry number (assigned at time of entry) must be written on or attached to the back of the mount. Digital files may be submitted in .JPG or .TIF format. You can bring your files to convention on CD-ROM or a USB flash drive and reference the filenames on your entry form. Entries must be delivered to the photo salon location by 10 a.m. on the Saturday of convention. If you are unable to bring your photos to convention, please e-mail the TSA Vice-Chair to make arrangements to mail them. Include a prepaid return mailer if you want your photos returned or pick up your entries before you leave the convention on Sunday. A completed entry form must accompany all entries. (The entry form will be available for download on the TSA website.) Judging and prizes 1st, 2nd, 3rd prizes for each category and overall Best of Show, plus ribbons, awarded by a panel of judges. NOTE: If you are entering in the print category, please also bring digital copies of your photos if at all possible, on CD-ROM or USB flash drive. We will be showing a digital slide show of photo salon entries in the Photo Salon during the Saturday presentations.* * *MAP SALON DETAILS* *1)* All maps submitted must be of Texas caves, or drafted by Texas cavers. Texas cavers are those whose primary residence has been Texas at some time during the previous year. Cartographers can enter as many maps as they want. Maps need not be of the entire cave (i.e. detail maps of cave sections are eligible). Caves need not be completely surveyed for a map of the cave to be eligible. *2)* All maps must have been made in the past year (since the last Convention). Significant modifications or additions made to older maps in that time may also be submitted. *3)* Maps that have won past awards at either the TSA or NSS Conventions are *not* eligible for entry. *4)* Final categories depend on the number of entries, but should include: - Caves under 100 m - Caves over 100 m - First-time Cartographer. The first-time cartographer category is to encourage beginning cartographers, and is aimed at those whom have never entered a map salonbefore. It is not for skilled cartographers. Maps may not be entered in multiple categories. *5) *Judging will be objective (based on mandatory elements of good cave maps, and drafting quality) and subjective (quality points awarded for innovative representations, balance and layout, visual impact, etc.). Completed score sheets with comments will be given to the entrants at the end of the Convention. *6)* Prizes will be determined by the number of entrants and categories. There is no fee to enter maps, and the maps remain the property of the entrant. *7) *Ribbons are awarded for First, Second, and Third place maps, as well as Honorable Mention. All ribbons do not have to be awarded in each category if the number of submissions is low and the scoring does not suggest awards. The highest-scored map will also be awarded Best of Show, in addition to the prize in its individual category. Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions. See you soon! Ellie Watson TSA Vice Chair 509-899-0007 ellie.tho...@gmail.com For Facebook users: https://www.facebook.com/events/312213962130706/
--- End Message ---
--- Begin Message ---Project date: 9–11 March 2012 Reported by: Jim Kennedy Report date: 23 March 2012 Person-hours: 111 hours (65 work, 46 travel) Personnel: (9 folks) Andy Edwards, Galen Falgout, Jim Kennedy, Maya Liu, Craig McGrath, Kris Peña, William Quast, Jennifer Thompson, Heather Túček A miserable, rainy, cold weekend kept Project attendance to a minimum. Only two teams were fielded, one returning to Dog and Butterfly Cave to continue the survey and exploration, and the other heading back out to the woods to (unsuccessfully) search again for a Stenlight lost during the January Project trip. Everyone left the Park by Saturday night for hot showers and warm beds in their own homes. Team 1 Andy Edwards, Craig McGrath, Kris Peña, William Quast The goal of this team’s trip was to continue surveying Dog and Butterfly Cave (SAB197) and rig the third drop that was discovered on the January trip. Heather Túček, the team’s usual sketcher, was unable to attend due to a recent finger injury, so Will assumed sketching duties and the team picked up new Bexar Grotto caver, Craig. Assuming (rightfully!) that the usual road to the cave would be flooded, the group left their vehicles along the main park road and set off cross-country to their objective. The rain was not unbearable and the route was not terribly overgrown so the team was able to find the cave without any incident. Upon arriving, they got underground quickly and were glad to get out of the rain. The first drop was rigged and all members descended to begin the survey at the tie-in point left from the previous survey, just above the second drop. Kris and Craig set stations, Andy read instruments, and Will kept book. The team finished the survey through the Trans-Cave Corridor and tied it in to the previous survey at both ends. They then rigged the second drop and descended, setting another station on the way down to Hunting Season. After some quick instruction, Craig tried his hand at instruments while Kris continued setting stations. The entire room was surveyed up to the next pit. The team then set about rigging the third drop. Before entering, they discussed many possibilities for rigging this slightly tricky muddy hallway. But it quickly became evident the best option was to set bolts. Because of the muddiness and the precarious floor, they decided a hand line would be useful, so Will set two bolts. Once rigged, they descended 7m to a small room, only to find a 7m pouroff leading to another small room. Another bolt was set and they descended into yet another level. There, they discovered a large dark flowstone mass leading too a 2m drop. As there was space in the next room for only one person at a time, the team took turns examining this new room, which contained a small active waterfall and stream passage. There is a small, yet diggable (rock-breaking) lead behind the waterfall which looks promising, but it will need enlarging before anyone can enter. The team then began their exit out the cave. Will and Craig were first on rope. Upon ascending back up the 3rd drop, Will was reminded of just how useful a hand line can be when a large section of the floor broke off beneath him and narrowly missed Craig waiting below. Other than that, the rest of the exit was without incident and the team emerged from the cave slightly after dark and hiked back to the road. Objectives for future trips involve continuing the survey and digging (pounding) on the lead in the current bottommost room. Team one’s hours: 40.0 Team 2 Galen Falgout, Jim Kennedy, Maya Liu, Jennifer Thompson, Heather Túček This group bundled up in their most waterproof boots and raingear and thrashed through the rain-soaked junipers for about 5 hours, searching fruitlessly on the ridge above Fat Bob Cave (SAB557) for the Stenlight headpiece that fell off of Galen’s helmet during the January expedition. Armed with a GPS apiece, which was loaded with the known caves and karst features in the area and the tracklogs from the recent trips, the ridge was criss-crossed repeatedly in a vain effort. During his wanderings, Jim was able to relocate and verify the location of Sheep Den Cave (SAB242), Skatwalk Fissure (SAB793), and Donut Cave (SAB303). But two other caves, Ranger Walk Cave (SAB221) and Glory Hole (SAB220), were not where their coordinates said they should be, and remain “lost.” Jim did find one new karst feature needing digging, Filled Entrance karst feature (SAB817). The rest of the group found another, Soaked to the Bone karst feature (SAB819). Heather and Jennifer waited around for Team 1, since all Jen’s dry clothes and other possessions were locked in to one of their vehicles. The others changed clothes, headed into Lampasas for a late, hot, lunch, and continued home to Austin. Team two’s hours: 25.0<<attachment: winmail.dat>>
--- End Message ---
