Cave Conservation

Responsible caving protects the cave and the relationships that make access possible. SASA clubs combine exploration with documentation and conservation; every visitor shares that duty.

The responsible-caving code

• Obtain permission and comply with permits, gates, group-size limits and seasonal closures.
• Use the smallest competent party and follow established routes where they exist.
• Do not touch, break, muddy, collect or lean equipment against formations.
• Carry out all litter, food, spent batteries, tape and human waste according to the trip plan.
• Never write, scratch, paint or smoke-mark a cave.
• Do not disturb wildlife or alter airflow, water flow or entrances.
• Report damage, pollution and new discoveries privately to the manager or club.

Formations are not souvenirs

Stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, crystals and delicate helictites may take centuries or far longer to form. Skin oils can stain or change a surface; one boot print can spread mud across pristine calcite. Keep packs, helmets and ropes clear. If the established route crosses sensitive ground, use clearly agreed removable route markers and remove them afterwards unless the manager has authorised a permanent system.

Bats and other cave life

Caves provide roosts and refuge for bats and habitat for invertebrates, microorganisms and other specialised organisms. Avoid close approach, repeated photography, loud noise and prolonged light. Never handle wildlife unless you are trained and authorised. Respect closures or route changes around maternity colonies and important roosts. Do not install a gate without specialist advice: a poorly designed gate can trap animals or alter airflow.

Archaeology, fossils and heritage

South African caves contain globally important archaeological and palaeontological deposits. Their value lies in context—the exact layer and relationship between objects—not only in the object itself. Do not excavate, remove, wash or rearrange bone, stone tools, pottery, sediment or human remains. Photograph only from the route, note the location discreetly and report it to the managing authority and an appropriate heritage professional. Permits may be required under the National Heritage Resources Act.

Water and pollution

Karst water moves through fractures and conduits with limited natural filtration. Fuel, chemicals, sewage, farm waste and litter entering a sinkhole or cave may travel into springs or groundwater. Never use a cave or doline as a dump. Avoid contaminating pools and streams with soap, food, human waste or equipment that carries material from another site.

Clean gear between sites

Mud, seeds, spores and microorganisms can hitchhike on boots, ropes and clothing. Remove soil and organic matter after each trip, then clean and dry equipment using methods suitable for the material and current conservation guidance. This is especially important when moving among bat roosts, protected areas, catchments or caves with vulnerable biota.

Photography and location privacy

Photography should not delay a group in a hazardous position or require trampling sensitive ground. Obtain consent before using high-output flashes near wildlife. When sharing images, remove location data and avoid directions, recognisable access landmarks or descriptions that invite unauthorised entry. Scientific documentation can be lodged through trusted channels without putting a cave at risk.

Landowners and access

Arrive and leave at agreed times, close gates, avoid livestock and crops, park responsibly and report problems. Do not bring additional visitors or assume that one permission applies forever. Never cut locks, bypass a gate or duplicate a key. A landowner’s refusal must be respected.