Devils Garden and Derrick Cave Kevin Abel2

Caves and Karst

The BLM’s Cave Resources program was established to do the following:

  • Provide for recreational and primitive caving opportunities.
  • Ensure maximum consistency and continuity in the management of cave resources.
  • Identify where these resources are located.
  • Manage them to protect their inherent values in accordance with the Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1988.

The BLM manages nearly 800 caves, primarily in karst (limestone) regions. Caves are a fascinating and fragile world that is an important resource for scientific and historical research and environmental education. Caves also provide habitat for bats and other wild creatures. Some caves on BLM public lands are also available for public exploration and may require a permit.

The BLM relies on volunteers and special interest groups to locate, survey, inventory, and monitor its cave resources, and provide critical feedback regarding the management of those resources across all disciplines. 

 

Regional Information