NSS Convention 2026

A group of Virginia cavers associated with the Virginia Speleological Survey (VSS) and the karst team of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation Natural Heritage Program (VDCR-NHP) both have long-standing relationships with the staff of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest (GWJNF). For decades, cavers have taken the lead on cave exploration efforts, while for the last thirty years, DCR Karst Program staff have led hydrological and biological investigations, as well as on the ground conservation projects such as the construction of cave gates, with significant overlap in activities and personnel between the two groups. These relationships were strengthened in 2024 with the signing of the Master Participating Agreement between the National Speleological Society and the United States Forest Service (USFS). Additionally, in 2025, a Good Neighbor Agreement was signed between USFS and VDCR-NHP to support ongoing karst evaluations and cave exploration to inform management and conservation in the GWJNF.

Caver involvement demonstrates the benefits of proactive engagement for resource management and conservation. So far, this collaboration has enabled above-ground karst evaluations of more than 100 miles of linear traverse and the discovery of more than a dozen new caves in the past decade. We have discovered new subterranean species, paleontological resources, bat roosts, and springs. The presentation will outline the benefits of cooperation among cavers, state agencies, and the USFS, as well as steps cavers can take to reap the benefits of working with the USFS and other agencies in cave and karst exploration on public lands.