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A survey of 80 cavers showed that the average caver in this small sample is mid-forties in age; is slightly more likely to be male rather than female; and usually goes caving several times a year in his home state or in adjoining states. This caver was most likely to have begun caving through being invited on a trip by a friend or family member. Visiting a commercial cave stirred the initial interest in almost 1/3 of respondents, and about 20% said they began caving because they found a cave and decided to explore it.
Factors that drew people back to the caves were excitement about exploring as well as enthusiasm for underground biologic, geologic, and hydrologic details. Virtually all respondents said they enjoyed other outdoor activities in addition to caving. Skills in surveying, ropework, and cave gating were frequently listed, and a large number of cavers said they would like to learn and practice more caving skills. Regions, grottos, and experienced cavers need to plan workshops, training sessions, and programs to supply new cavers with skills and knowledge about safe caving and land-owner relationships.
Catherine Bishop