Post by L Roebuck on Sept 26, 2007 7:03:33 GMT -5
Natural Bridge plan to gate cave opens criticism
Bryon Crawford, courier-journal.com
A Kentucky state parks plan to install steel gates at the two main entrances of Natural Bridge Cave is drawing strong objections from some cave enthusiasts.
The cave, along a trail between the park lodge and Natural Bridge, has been open to the public since 1896. The land around it became a state park in 1926.
Parks officials say the cave is being gated to protect the endangered Virginia big-eared bat, which was found there in the 1950s, and to shield the cave from a growing problem with vandalism.
Opponents of the gating say the cave could be adequately protected by other means -- such as electronic sensors, surveillance cameras or more attention from rangers -- without restricting access.
Full Text
Bryon Crawford, courier-journal.com
A Kentucky state parks plan to install steel gates at the two main entrances of Natural Bridge Cave is drawing strong objections from some cave enthusiasts.
The cave, along a trail between the park lodge and Natural Bridge, has been open to the public since 1896. The land around it became a state park in 1926.
Parks officials say the cave is being gated to protect the endangered Virginia big-eared bat, which was found there in the 1950s, and to shield the cave from a growing problem with vandalism.
Opponents of the gating say the cave could be adequately protected by other means -- such as electronic sensors, surveillance cameras or more attention from rangers -- without restricting access.
Full Text