DRAFT Resource protection studies associated with re-lighting of a portion of the Historic tour route, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky
Aley T and Aley C. 1992. DRAFT Resource protection studies associated with re-lighting of a portion of the Historic tour route, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky. Ozark Underground Laboratory
This report is divided into three sections: exotic plant growth; re-lighting strategies; and restoration techniques and guidelines. The section on exotic plant growth includes a substantial literature review of plant growth in caves with particular emphasis on methods of control. Checklists are presented of the moss, algae, cyanobacteria, Euglenoids, Dinoflagellates, and diatoms identified in Mammoth Cave. Recommendations for the prevention and control of exotic plant growth is provided. The relationship between lighting and plant growth is explained and lighting strategies which will control plant growth and yet provide illumination for interpretation and visitor safety are discussed. The study identified cave features which should be emphasized by the new lighting system and made recommendations for size, type and number of lighting fixtures. The final section of this report discussed restoration techniques and guidelines for the removal of exotic plant growth, for the identification and removal of unnatural "clay worms"; for removing or diminishing the visibility of graffiti; and techniques for identifying and removing inappropriate unnatural coatings or materials on cave surfaces. All recommendations are summarized at the completion of the report.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Aley, Thomas; Aley, Catherine
- Date of Issue
- 1992-12-15
- Publisher
- Ozark Underground Laboratory
- Units
- MACA
- Keywords
- Artificial Lighting, Cave Lighting, Cave Restoration, Caves, Ecology, Exotic Species, Historic Tour Route Mammoth Cave Mammoth Cave National Park KY, Mammoth Cave Mammoth Cave National Park KY, Management, Plant Studies, Plants, Tour Routes, Trails