conservation
Temple Hill Saltpeter Cave is definitely unique in its history. It is a convergence of disciplines including geology, history, biology, chemistry, hydrology, anthropology, and geomorphology. Sadly, the cave is routinely abused by unwelcome tourists who wish to do nothing but litter, spray paint graffiti on the cave walls, and even start fires inside and outside of the cave while camping. These crimes happen despite the best efforts of the current landowner and the remote location of the cave makes noticing trespassers near impossible.
This cave, as all caves do, has an inevitable end. The same disciplines that created this local wonder will also be responsible for its demise. But, that is far into the future. In the meantime, we can be ambassadors to this local gem just as we have with Kentucky's more famous landmarks. Placing the cave on the National Register of Historic Places is one step that can be taken to prevent, or at least diminish, the effects of trespassers. Another option would be the purchasing of the cave by Western Kentucky University. Not only would there be more security and strict penalties placed on trespassers, but the cave would also be under the care of professionals in the aforementioned disciplines. Under the care of university professors, the cave would also be a center of learning in the form of field trips.
Even if these steps to conserve Temple Hill Saltpeter Cave never materialize, there are smaller scale steps that cave enthusiasts can take to ensure that everyone can enjoy this cave and others like it. First and foremost, ALWAYS ask permission before visiting private caves. Secondly, refrain from leaving any evidence that you were ever there, especially graffiti. In fact, making an effort to remove litter left behind by irresponsible parties is greatly appreciated by landowners and other cave enthusiasts. Lastly, remember that these caves are part of the hydrologic cycle and many things you do inside caves and around them may eventually lead back to your water supply.
This cave, as all caves do, has an inevitable end. The same disciplines that created this local wonder will also be responsible for its demise. But, that is far into the future. In the meantime, we can be ambassadors to this local gem just as we have with Kentucky's more famous landmarks. Placing the cave on the National Register of Historic Places is one step that can be taken to prevent, or at least diminish, the effects of trespassers. Another option would be the purchasing of the cave by Western Kentucky University. Not only would there be more security and strict penalties placed on trespassers, but the cave would also be under the care of professionals in the aforementioned disciplines. Under the care of university professors, the cave would also be a center of learning in the form of field trips.
Even if these steps to conserve Temple Hill Saltpeter Cave never materialize, there are smaller scale steps that cave enthusiasts can take to ensure that everyone can enjoy this cave and others like it. First and foremost, ALWAYS ask permission before visiting private caves. Secondly, refrain from leaving any evidence that you were ever there, especially graffiti. In fact, making an effort to remove litter left behind by irresponsible parties is greatly appreciated by landowners and other cave enthusiasts. Lastly, remember that these caves are part of the hydrologic cycle and many things you do inside caves and around them may eventually lead back to your water supply.