by CKB69 » Sep 26, 2005 10:48 pm
I was a caver for many years before I actually got around to joining the NSS.
So what do I get as a member?
I get a list of other members around the world,with contact info.
Should I decide to visit an area,I have a list of contacts who can point me in the right direction.
This is supplemented by meeting these folks,and,caving with them,at various regional events.
We even have a yearly convention,although I have yet to attend 1 of these(Murphy makes out my schedule...).
As a member,I recieve the News,and,the Journal.
The News is usually a good read,and some fantastic photos. It is,however,a bit thin.
I know the Journal is aimed at the scientific community,and though some of it is a little beyond my immediate grasp,I have little trouble following it.
The NSS owns,or,leases,a number of caves. These are called preserves,and we can visit most of them with without a lot of hassle.
This means WE own these caves. US. As a collective.
This idea is also why I am a member of the SCCI. Our primary focus is protecting caves through purchase,or,lease,thereby assuring access to future generations of cavers.
We fund grants for scientific studies,and,expeditions.
The NSS publishes books about caves,and,caving,which cover a wide range of topics.
The bookstore gives members a discount!
We have a very decent BB(between crashes,and,anti-society trolls..).
All in all,I believe Our society serves the purpose for which it was founded,to promote fellowship among cavers,and,further the exploration and study of caves.
I am not usually a "joiner",and am somewhat of an anarchist.
But I will be renewing my membership. 8)
Slide. Slide on the ice...