To All Cavers The following should be considered both a learning experience and an opportunity to remind Cavers of our obligation to protect caves. This is not incrimination upon any one individual.
At the recent TSA Spring Convention we offered a combination Rigging and Photography Workshop. Cavers learned safe vertical rigging techniques and large room photography. Many great photos were taken and folks had a wonderful learning experience taught by world class cavers and experts in their field. However, the recent photos of this event posted on Facebook have resulted in unwanted attention regarding caves at this TPWD State Natural Area. These posts were linked to the TPWD Facebook account and now all ‘Friends’ or members know of the cave. This has caused the TPWD staff to question our commitment to keeping their caves protected. Two specific concerns were brought to my attention and TPWD wants to remind cavers that when participating in caving activities at a TPWD State Natural Area (State Parks also) 1. Do not post or publish information about the caving activities on the internet. Doing so results in unwanted attention regarding caves on TPWD property. TPWD does not want it made public that there are caves on their property. 2. Do not post personally identifiable information (people’s names), cave names, locations, maps or photos. Please note that participation in a ‘TSA Cave and Karst Project’ (this includes TSA Convention Workshops) at any TPWD State Natural Area requires participants to sign a ‘Confidentiality Agreement’. This Agreement requires participants to not publicize caving activities. I consider Texas Cavers to be mature and intelligent enough to understand the point that is being made here. Protect caves and protect our relationship with TPWD. Robert Bisset Chairman - Texas Speleological Association
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