Preserving caves. Protecting karst. Keeping responsible exploration possible.
Caves are among the West’s most remarkable—and vulnerable—natural resources. Hidden beneath the surface are fragile ecosystems, unique geological formations, archaeological and paleontological evidence, and places that still hold discoveries waiting to be made.
The Western Cave Conservancy (WCC) works to ensure that these places are protected for future generations.
Since 2002, WCC has worked with cavers, landowners, government agencies, scientists, and conservation organizations to protect threatened caves and karst landscapes throughout the western United States. We acquire and manage cave properties, establish conservation partnerships, restore damaged caves, support research and education, and promote responsible access.
Your support protects real caves
WCC is an all-volunteer nonprofit. Your membership and donations directly support the work of protecting caves and the land around them.
Protecting caves takes more than a gate
Conservation is about more than keeping a cave entrance closed. Effective cave stewardship means understanding the geology, biology, hydrology, history, and human impacts of each cave—and developing management that protects those resources while allowing appropriate exploration, research, education, and recreation.
Our work includes:
- Acquiring threatened cave properties
- Managing caves and karst preserves
- Restoring and cleaning damaged caves
- Protecting cave habitat and scientific resources
- Supporting cave research and conservation projects
- Working with public agencies and private landowners
- Educating cavers and the public about cave conservation
- Helping maintain responsible access to protected caves
Explore Our Preserves & Projects
WCC currently protects and manages a growing collection of important cave resources, including the Volcano Natural Preserve, Weller Natural Preserve, Cave of the Catacombs, and Windeler Cave, as well as conservation partnerships and cave restoration projects.
Caves Need Advocates
The caves of the West face growing pressure from development, resource extraction, vandalism, inappropriate visitation, and other threats. Many privately owned caves have little or no legal protection.
That is why WCC exists.
By bringing together the caving community, conservationists, scientists, landowners, and public agencies, we can protect caves that might otherwise be lost.
Become Part of Our Conservation Community
Whether you are an experienced caver, a scientist, a landowner, a conservationist, or simply someone who believes caves are worth protecting, there is a place for you in the work of the Western Cave Conservancy.
The underground world is still full of mysteries.
Together, we can make sure there are caves left to explore—and that the places we discover today remain protected for those who come after us.