TVA: Cave Gates serve different Purposes

[L Roebuck]

This is the first I have heard of the "Tennessee Valley Authority Cave Gating Program". Does any one have any additional information to share concerning this program?

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Cave gates serve different purposes
TVA Newsletter September 2007

Sensitive resources near Nickajack Reservoir in southeast Tennessee should be safe from human disturbance after a recent gate installation. TVA crews transported just under 1.5 tons of steel, first by boat and then by hand, through a small access corridor in order to reach the pit cave itself.

If you’re hiking on TVA-managed public lands and happen to come upon a cave entrance surrounded by fencing or barred by a gate, give it a wide berth.

TVA’s “cave gating” program is designed to protect sensitive ecological and cultural resources by limiting access to caves. Most frequently, gates are installed in locations where endangered species could be impacted by human disturbance. In the case of archeological resources — mostly cave art — gates are used to preserve the condition of the resource and to prevent vandalism.

Tennessee Valley Authority

[Brian Roebuck]

First I heard of it. I suppose if they are only gating sensitive caves for cave animals or archaeology it's not so bad. I hope they don't get carried away though...

[L Roebuck]

I just hope the TVA Management Plan includes reasonable access for cavers.