I need some information on the exploration of a cave in Tazewell Co VA. I found the cave a few months ago on a tip from a neighbor. The upper level/entrance area has seen heavy visitation but a 56' rappel through a narrow floor slot led to significant pristine passage. VSS had no record of the cave on file, so we started surveying yesterday. We surveyed for about 4 hours and 1173 feet, eventually noticing a set or two of very old footprints. While picking a spot for our last station of the day, I found an old survey station smoked on a big block. We decided to stop surveying and try to find a finished map before we spent much more time duplicating work. Further exploration of the cave revealed several more smoke labelled stations as well as many spots where a carbide lamp had been pushed into the mud, I assume as a station marker. It's a neat cave and a project I think I could handle if it would serve any purpose. The lower level is a massive and extremely straight* canyon with many high domes (some over 100') and spires, few decorations, and a polite stream. After looking around further yesterday, I would guess the total length is not much more than 1 mile. Unless we're missing something good.
Does anyone know who I can talk to about caves in this part of VA? Anyone who has been active there in the past? I have no idea how old the marks we found are, but I'm assuming it's been a while. I've frequently heard and read the name John Holsinger associated with area caves, but there are about 12 John Holsingers living nearby and some that have recently passed away. Does anyone know the real J.H. or have any other advice?
Thanks -J
* here are the azimuths from yesterdays book: 77-82-77-80-80-73-74-80-80-78-76-77-79-71-77-76-84-72-74-72-73