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The Salisbury Mine-Cave Survey

The Salisbury Mine-Cave is an abandoned Loyalhanna limestone mine in southwestern Pennsylvania. Of particular interest to speleologists are the remains of numerous natural cave passages which have been dissected by the previous mining operation. In addition, the natural collapse of the lower entrance has accidently created the ideal temperature setting for all six species of Pennsylvania's hibernating bats, including the federally endangered Indiana bat.

A mapping project was undertaken in May 2003 to show the size, depth, and relationship of the mine's passages. A modern map is also necessary in order to fully understand the site's distribution of thousands of overwintering bats. And since numerous natural cave passage remnants can still be seen in the pillars, it is hoped that the original cave might be virturally reconstructed to provide a glimpse of what could easily have been one of the more significant Pennsylvania caves of its time.

The project is possible only through the generosity of the landowner, volunteer effort by the local representatives of the National Speleological Society, and the cooperation of the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

Pencil Draft
(ummm, not yet!)
Project participants:

John Chenger
Beth Dillion
Kelsea Johnson
Meredith Johnson
Mike Kern
Marcia Maslonek
Mike Schirato
Kerry Speelman
Julie Winner
Survey trip schedule:

August 16-17, 2003, 10:30 a.m.
This will likely be the final survey trip, wrapping up lingering natural cave passages.

If you are interested in either trips and have previous underground experience please contact John Chenger at jchenger@batmanagement.com.
Special thanks to:

Guy Wayne Hardesty
Cal Butchkoski