Speleology IPA

This IP has been developed especially for Laurel Caverns, with the guidance of the Trillium GSC, Pittsburgh, PA by Lisa Hall. 

Technology

This is a one hour classroom workshop with hands-on activities.  It includes a discussion on:

• The different types of caves of the world
• The sport of caving itself, with emphasis on safety
• Cave rescue and the advancements made.

Skill Building

This is a 2 hour cave trip into the undeveloped section of Laurel Caverns.  Undeveloped means no lights or walkways.  It does not mean unexplored.  The undeveloped section is surveyed and is a well known area.  During the cave trip the girls will:

• Use a map under the guidance of their instructor
• Scramble over rock piles and walk down sandy slopes using a flashlight

Service Project

This will be done in the cave.  They will sign a questionnaire called a “register”.  This is a small booklet located within the cave which many other cavers also sign.  The book is sent to the National Speleological Society at the end of the year.  This society is the national caving organization located in Huntsville, AL which monitors cave use in the USA.  Girls will also help clean graffiti and markings off cave walls. 

Career Exploration

This is done in the cave.  There are several rest stops taken on the trip.  The last rest stop before the group leaves is when they discuss careers involved with caves.