Keep Canada Clean
The following report is linked with information published in
Descent (245), since which time the protocols have been updated. For further details download the pdf released in November 2016.
White Nose Syndrome is a devastating disease that is destroying bat populations in North America and expanding its range at an alarming rate. The outbreak originated on the east coast of the USA and has not (yet) crossed the Rocky Mountains to gain the west coast of either the USA or Canada.
In an attempt to control the possible spread of the causative fungal spores, for some years US cavers have adopted a rigorous regime of decontaminating all clothing and equipment used underground. Following suit, Western Canada has also introduced its own controls to protect its bat populations. If you are caving in the region, whether as a local or visitor from the USA or Europe (where the fungus is extant in colonies of bats), please download the pdf rel
Under the icefield and inside the mountain
Go deep below the Columbia Icefield in Banff National Park to “the most inaccessible place in Canada” with the 2020 Castleguard Cave Expedition
Typical crawling passage on the way to Boon s sump. All diving equipment had to be moved though approximately one kilometre of cave passage is like this, a trip that took 5-6 hours. (Photo: Jason Lavigne)
April 15, 2021
Castleguard. For a caver, the name invokes imagination and emotion. As Canada’s longest cave, it has enchanted expedition cavers from around the world who have contributed to its exploration over the last 50 years. A few unexplored leads still beckon, and armed with clear scientific and exploration objectives, a research permit from Parks Canada grants access for experienced teams.