On Saturday, May 22^nd Rick Bantel was honored by cavers from the Virginia Region of the National Speleological Society (NSS) with its prestigious annual landowner appreciation award. The award is given to cave owners who are particularly supportive of cave exploration and preservation. Presenting Mr. Bantel (left) with the award is NSS President Gordon Birkhimer (right), who was in town this weekend to assist the Bubble Cave Conservancy in hosting the Spring VAR caving event that was held at the State Fair of West Virginia in Fairlea. Photo by Carroll Bassett.

 

The State Fair of West Virginia, Greenbrier East High School and Eastern Greenbrier Middle School were selected to be the location of the NSS annual convention in June 2012. This weekend’s event, which was attended by 329 cavers, showcased our excellent facilities to the caving community.

 

Other local landowners who have received this honor include George and Lee Sively, the Mothes family, Dr. and Mrs. J.T. Rogers, Geraldine Freeman, Pat & Mike Dore, John Mooney & Helen Baker, and Steve Silverberg.

 

Anyone interested in caves or cave conservation in the area should contact the West Virginia Cave Conservancy at www.wvcc.net for more information. To learn more about the NSS visit www.caves.org.