National Cave and Karst Research Institute

Carlsbad, New Mexico | Conduct, support, facilitate, and promote programs in cave and karst research, education, environmental management, and data acquisition and sharing.

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CAVE WEEK
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Cave Week

What is Cave Week?

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Cave Week is a great chance to enjoy, celebrate and learn about our caves. All are invited to join in this fantastic celebration of the underground world. In 2024, Cave Week will be celebrated June 2-8th.

Caves provide recreational opportunities for millions of people each year. They are a vital source of drinking water for people around the world. These sensitive environments serve as a habitat for many living creatures, preserve our past, and  provide opportunities for the advancement of science and research.

The focus of the week is on caves and karst, their importance, history, current research, exploration, conservation and restoration, while promoting other sites across the US, Canada, and the world.

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Why should people care about caves or cave environments?

Caves are unique, sensitive environments that have fragile mineral formations, rare flora and fauna, irreplaceable artifacts, and distinctive fossils. They can record Earth’s history and climate and are natural laboratories for modern research because of their constant climate. Caves provide tourism and recreational opportunities to millions of visitors each year. Lastly, caves can provide information on Paleontology, Archeology, Biology, Geology, Hydrology, and Paleoclimatology.

How Can You Join in the Celebration?

You can celebrate caves in many different ways, whether it’s through social media, in person educational events, guest speakers or other fun activities. Here are some more ways to celebrate:

  • On social media tag @caveweek or use the #caveweek hashtag when post educating about caves or Cave Week
  • Use the Cave Week logo
  • Share about USA Cave Animal of the Year
  • Have an in person event such as:
    • Cave or karst cleanup 
    • Art event or contest
    • Bat walk or survey
    • Webinar or guest speaker
    • Dress like a caver, cave scientist, speleothem, cave animal or other cave themed costume
    • Have a cave or bat themed cooking class or potluck
    • Have a cave themed book reading
    • Have a cave themed movie event

Resources: