Monday, June 4, 2012

Damage fears for popular caves

There is concern an increase in the number of people exploring the Mole Creek caves in northern Tasmania may be damaging the fragile area.

The Mole Creek cave system sits at the foothills of the Great Western Tiers.

It is considered one of the most spectacular in Australia and is home to over 400 caves.

Tour guide Debbie Hunter says an increasing number of curious amateurs are exploring the cave system and accidentally damaging the fragile environment.

If dirty hand and foot prints are not cleaned off, spectacular calcite deposits can be permanently stained.

"With the recent increase I'm noticing that every trip I take in here, I'm always getting my water bottle and soft brush out," she said.

The Parks and Wildlife Service is considering installing information booths at the popular sites to minimise the damage done by the increase in foot traffic.

Spokesman Chris Emms says the booths would be aimed mainly at large groups.

"It's about educating those people who aren't experienced on what they can do, not only from a safety point of view but also for an environmental point of view, to improve their experience but also to minimise their impacts."

Source: ABC

Monday, June 4, 2012

Damage fears for popular caves

There is concern an increase in the number of people exploring the Mole Creek caves in northern Tasmania may be damaging the fragile area.

The Mole Creek cave system sits at the foothills of the Great Western Tiers.

It is considered one of the most spectacular in Australia and is home to over 400 caves.

Tour guide Debbie Hunter says an increasing number of curious amateurs are exploring the cave system and accidentally damaging the fragile environment.

If dirty hand and foot prints are not cleaned off, spectacular calcite deposits can be permanently stained.

"With the recent increase I'm noticing that every trip I take in here, I'm always getting my water bottle and soft brush out," she said.

The Parks and Wildlife Service is considering installing information booths at the popular sites to minimise the damage done by the increase in foot traffic.

Spokesman Chris Emms says the booths would be aimed mainly at large groups.

"It's about educating those people who aren't experienced on what they can do, not only from a safety point of view but also for an environmental point of view, to improve their experience but also to minimise their impacts."

Source: ABC