Thank you so much!!!
CAVE CONSERVATION AT JUBILEE BALKAN CAVERS CAMP “DRYANOVO’2020”
The Organizing Committee of Balkan Cavers Camp expect that there will be increased traffic through many of our caves during the event, and we are committed to minimize any impact this may have on the cave environment. We know that many of you will be very aware of the need to conserve and protect our caves. However, to ensure that the message of cave conservation is emphasized to all, we ask that all cavers (even if you are experienced) please read the following information. With your help, we can minimize the impact of human exploration on our caves, so that the next generation can enjoy them exactly as we can this June.
Surface considerations
Always park your car responsibly on a hard surface and not on the grass verges in the territory of the Recreation Area (which would cause serious erosion). Burning the fire in the territory of the Natural Park (except of the settled places for that) is absolutely forbidden from ecological reasons and risks of FIRE!
Never touch and step on the formations
Formations might include calcite decorations (speleothems), such as columns, stalactites, stalagmites, pools, flowstone curtains amongst others. Sediments may include rare mud/rock/sand patterns, or unspoiled areas of the cave which would be damaged by human activity. Many of the routes in the Balkan Camp caves will involve passing near to formations and unspoiled sediments. Be careful where you place your hands and feet and mind your head.
Never cross marker tape
To help make you aware of some delicate formations or unspoilt sediments in the cave, bright coloured marker tape is often placed. The tape may surround a particular formation, or it may guide you on a specific route/path along a passage. ALWAYS follow any routes shown by marker tape, and NEVER cross the tape.
Do not disturb cave life
Cave life should not be disturbed. All Bats in Bulgaria are a legally protected species. If you see any bats during Balkan Camp, avoid shining your lights at them and do not use flash photography. Move quickly away from them.
Leave the cave as you found it
Never leave any litter in the cave (and if you see any please pick it up and remove it).
Do not remove any rocks or natural materials from the cave, or modify the cave in any way. If you need to urinate in a cave, you must locate an area with a suitable amount of flowing water to carry your waste away. Solid waste should always be removed from the cave completely. Never make any markings on the cave (for example, scratching or drawing arrows).
Inform others
Always ensure these messages of cave conservation are communicated to other cavers in your group.
You MUST take responsibility for ensuring less experienced cavers are made aware of cave conservation.
