The softbound edition of Snail Shell Cave will be shipped to the NSS office tomorrow (August 30, 2012) and will be available for order right after Labor Day.
The book is 248 pages long and contains numerous maps, black-and-white photos, and 24 color photos. Of special interest are five (5) topographic maps, in color, with overlays of mapped cave passages and dye trace paths.
The Snail Shell Cave System drains approximately 130 square miles, or one-fourth of Rutherford County, Tennessee, where it is located. Exploration began in the 1950s by Tom Barr and other Middle Tennessee cavers, continued through the 60s, 70s, and 80s, when detailed mapped was done, and then the Department of Energy wanted to place the Superconducting Super Collider there, ensuing a battle between cavers and Big Government. Since 2000, the focus of exploration has been sump diving and mapping of totally water-filled passages.
This book is the complete story of the cave's exploration, since Tom Barr's first visit up to Jason Richard's last dive two weeks ago. It don't get much more up-to-date than that !!! There are lots and lots of great photos by Bob Biddix and others.
Retail price will be $31.00. NSS member price will be $28.00. NSS Life Member Price will be $25.00
A special collector Hard Bound edition is due to be shipped to the NSS Office in mid-September and we'll have more about that when the relase date gets closer.
Dave Luckins,OVP
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