NSS Convention 2026

The Powell Mountain Karst Preserve (PMKP) in Wise County, Virginia, encompasses biologically, geologically, and historically significant cave and karst resources and is managed by the Cave Conservancy of the Virginias (CCV). This study evaluates the effectiveness of the PMKP Management Plan (2003) through a policy analysis focused on governance structure and recreational access issues. Using document review, stakeholder input, and comparative evaluation criteria aligned with CCV's mission, the analysis identifies strengths in resource protection, scientific data standards, and cave-specific management. However, it also reveals key gaps between formal policies and operational practices, including ambiguous role definitions for volunteer coordinators and a vague, inconsistently implemented approach to facilitating recreational access. To address these issues, the study proposes and evaluates multiple management alternatives. For preserve leadership, a "structured coordination" model is recommended, clearly defining roles, responsibilities, and procedures to improve accountability while maintaining flexibility. For access management, an adaptive management model is proposed, reconsidering recreational access as a formal goal while advancing public access opportunities through facilitated events. These recommendations aim to better align PMKP management with CCV's conservation mission, enhance administrative clarity, and balance resource protection with public engagement. The findings offer practical insights into the role of policy analysis frameworks for decision-making in cave conservation nonprofit organizations.