Annual Report Cover 2011 Spread 8/10/11 11:28 AM Page 1

Annual Report Cover 2011_Spread 8/10/11 11:28 AM Page 1

National Cave and Karst Research Institute 2010-2011 400-1 Cascades Avenue Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220-6215, USA ANNUAL REPORT www.nckri.org

www.nckri.org The National Cave and Karst Research Institute (NCKRI) will be the world’s premier cave and karst research organization, facilitating and conducting programs in research, education, data management, and stewardship in all fields of speleology through its own efforts and by establish- ing an international consortium of partners whose individual efforts will be supported to promote cooperation, synergy, flexibility, and creativity.

NCKRI was created by the U.S. Congress in 1998 in partnership with the State of New Mexico and the City of Carlsbad. Initially an institute within the National Park Ser- vice, NCKRI is now a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation that retains its federal, state, and city partnerships. Federal and state funding for NCKRI is administered by the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (aka New Mexico Tech or NMT). Funds not produced by agreements through NMT are accepted directly by NCKRI.

NCKRI’s enabling legislation, the National Cave and Karst Research Institute Act of 1998, 16 U.S.C. §4310, iden- tifies NCKRI’s mission as to: 1) further the science of speleology; 2) centralize and standardize speleological information; 3) foster interdisciplinary cooperation in cave and karst research programs; 4) promote public education; 5) promote national and international cooperation in protecting the environment for the benefit of cave and karst landforms; and 6) promote and develop environmentally sound and sustainable resource management practices.

NCKRI produces a report of its activities each year. The reporting period covers NCKRI’s fiscal year, from 1 July to 30 June of the following year. Digital copies of this and previous reports are available for free at www.nckri.org.

Entrance side of newly-constructed NCKRI Headquarters.

Opposite side of newly-constructed NCKRI Headquarters. Photos by George Veni.

Landmarks. The National Cave and Karst Research Institute (NCKRI) established several important physical and figurative landmarks during this 2010-2011 year. The biggest landmark is our newly-built headquarters, which many in the community call ―the most beautiful building in Carlsbad‖ and a model of green and innovative features. More than 350 people came to its opening (pages 2-5)—by far the largest crowd I’ve seen at such an event in Carlsbad. The opening was preceded a week earlier by unveiling the dra- matic Jim White Sculpture (page 3), the first of several public art pieces NCKRI plans to host. In October 2010, we hired Ann Dowdy as NCKRI’s first Advancement Director. Through her we’ve set other key landmarks, such as our membership program, Adopt-A-Bat program, and the establishment of NCKRI as a stakeholder with local to national professional fund raising organizations and programs (pages 6-8). Ann’s talents and skills are bringing new funds, equipments, resources, and many new friends to NCKRI, all of which boost NCKRI’s progress. NCKRI’s Board approved our Strategic Education Plan in May 2011. This plan gives NCKRI a broad vision for teaching people about caves and karst (page 14). Before implementing some parts of the plan, we are creating the tools to make them possible. Most notably, our website at www.nckri.org is undergoing a complete redesign and should be launched by the time you read these words. Our website will be integral to NCKRI’s public education program. In the meantime, NCKRI’s entry into Facebook and Twitter stand as landmarks in this year’s educational and outreach efforts through social media. For the first time, NCKRI is providing contract research services. This report describes two projects in New Mexico, one at White Sands National Monument and the other at a brine well in Carlsbad (page 9-11). NCKRI has no intention of becoming a consulting company, but it will conduct consulting projects. When I ran my consulting company for 20 years before coming to NCKRI, I did so in the typical fashion of finishing a project, delivering the report to the client, and then moving on to the next job. Only a tiny frac- tion of that good work has been published where it can benefit others. NCKRI will focus mostly on projects where the results seem likely to have national and international application. Contracts are in essence no different than research grants, where funds are provided to investigate a question. The difference for NCKRI is that the goal isn’t just to give a client a high quality report, but to take the extra effort and make the information and results widely available. Contract research is a landmark in NCKRI’s operations that is diversifying NCKRI’s research program and providing critical funds needed during the current national economic doldrums. And there is still much more to do. Now that NCKRI Headquarters is open and we have started designing fabulous exhibits for our museum, we are focusing on raising funds to complete construction of our lab and library and to build those wonderful exhibits—new landmarks we’ll reach in the near future. Despite the national economy, NCKRI continues to grow and make excellent progress, and a big reason for that success is your support and help from all of our partners.

George Veni, Ph.D.

Wrap-up of construction and NCKRI’s first public event occurred even before the furniture was moved in. getting moved and settled into On January 20, 2011, Senator Tom Udall opened his office in Carlsbad – the first NCKRI Headquarters took center- congressional office for the city. He also came to NCKRI Headquarters to learn stage for much of this year as we fin- about the institute’s progress, and to attend a briefing by the Bureau of Land Man- ished our first three phases of build- agement and the National Park Service on White-Nose Syndrome, which is devas- ing. Phase 1 completed the founda- tating bat populations in the northeast quarter of the country. tion, main structure, exterior, and only the lobby, bookstore, restrooms, and exhibit hall inside. We started Phase 1, knowing it would not give us a fully usable building, but it served the important job of freezing 80% of the construction price from further inflation while we found funds to complete the remaining 20%. The construction would also be an unmis- takable testament to our commitment to seeing it finished and thus encour- age contributions from other funding sources. The strategy worked! As Phase 1 was wrapping up in Decem- ber 2009, the City of Carlsbad found funds for the next phase of work. Phase 2 completed the classroom. For Phase 3, in May 2010 the city again found funds, this time to com- Through their support we are com- was installed, we held our first event, plete all of the offices, board room, pleting the installation of our security hosting a special briefing for Senator break room, and work room. As this system, cabinetry, and much of our Tom Udall (see box above). Over the annual report is being written, Phase landscaping. next couple of weeks, the furniture 3.1 is happening thanks to funding Construction wrapped up in De- arrived, including a generous dona- from the National Park Service. cember 2010. Before our furniture tion from New Mexico Tech (see box below, left). On February 24, 2011, we gave a warm ―Thank you‖ to the good people at the Permian Basin NCKRI is proud to be one of several superb research and teaching institutes Regional Training Center who had that are a part of the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NMT). leased us our temporary offices for Due to the current na- the past 6 years, and settled into our tional economic crisis, permanent home. one of those institutes Once moved in, in Spring 2011 needed to scale back its we quickly got to work on Phase 4 of program, resulting in a our headquarters’ development. Fol- surplus of gently used lowing an international search, we furniture that NMT dis- hired the renowned Storyline Studios tributed to its other insti- of Bothell, Washington, to design tutes. NCKRI thanks spectacular cave and karst museum NMT for its constant sup- exhibits while we search for funds to port and guidance, and in build them. We postponed fund rais- this case for $35,378.31 of ing for our final phase of construc- office furniture and sup- tion, Phase 5, to complete the library plies that we are putting to and laboratory, until the next year. good use. Instead, we focused on our...

TV media have long On Saturday, May 14, 2011, been generous with NCKRI officially opened its head- their time and great quarters with an Opening Day Cele- coverage. Elected bration! that celebrated the broad city, county, state, community of friends, who came to- and federal officials gether to dream and achieve great have helped at every things by creating and supporting turn, and multiple NCKRI. NCKRI was borne out of a federal agencies, partnership between the federal gov- universities, organi- ernment through the National Park zations, scientists, Service, the State of New Mexico and individuals from through the New Mexico Institute of around the world Mining and Technology, and the City have given NCKRI of Carlsbad. Our headquarters’ loca- their support. tion came through the Carlsbad De- NCKRI’s celebration included many events and activities for adults and kids: exhibits on NCKRI and the caves and karst of the Carlsbad area; vice. four lectures by world class cave Over 350 people attended! Many and karst scientists; donated blood at the United Blood building tours; Services bloodmobile. ―Meet a live bat!‖; NCKRI’s doors were officially ―Dress like a caver‖; opened caver-style when representa- partment of Development’s (CDOD) an inflatable cave courtesy of the tives of New Mexico Tech, Greer The Cascades at Carlsbad. NCKRI’s Bureau of Land Management; Construction Company, and our acceptance into the local community rock and mineral identification; founding city, state, and federal part- was fostered by the Carlsbad Cham- karst groundwater model demon- ners, pulled on a haul line to swing ber of Commerce, Carlsbad Rotary, strations; and the doors wide. Without their efforts, and Downtown and Heights Lions’ booths from the CDOD, National NCKRI Headquarters would never Clubs. The Southwest Region of the Park Service, and US Forest Ser- have been built. National Speleological Society provides extra hands when needed for field research. All print, radio, and As a prelude to NCKRI’s opening eight days later, the bronze sculpture of Jim White was unveiled on May 6, 2011. The sculpture is located at the south end of NCKRI Headquarters, greeting visitors as they enter The Cascades at Carlsbad. White was the leader of the exploration of Carlsbad Cavern and instrumental in bringing it to national attention, which led to the creation of Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Sculptor Reynaldo ―Sonny‖ Rivera was hailed for his masterful work, which was mostly funded by New Mexico legislature and assistance from several organizations, including NCKRI.

visitors. Notable Opening NCKRI Headquarters is features include: a new beginning for the institute. It The National increases NCKRI’s ability to meet its Cave and Karst Congressional mandates through: Museum en- more advanced research and educa- compasses the tional programs; foyer, lobby, museum exhibits; and and exhibit hall additional funds from its bookstore, for a total area of 263 m2 rental of meeting and conference 2 space, enhanced programs, and a (2,827 ft ); generally higher profile. traveling and temporary exhibits will be displayed until our permanent exhibits are installed. Classroom/conference space totals 174 m2 (1,876 ft2) and is designed for meetings, workshops, classes, symposia, and social events, and will seat about 150 people. Three stout metal beams for vertical and rescue demon- strations and practice cross This page shows people enjoying NCKRI’s courtyard 5.1 m, our opening celebration and head- 7.1 m, and 9.1 m above the quarters—an environmentally and courtyard floor. Several people-friendly multi-function build- rings high in the beams and ing with 1,609 m2 (17,315 ft2) of low in the courtyard walls space over two levels. The first floor provide sturdy anchors for ported us this far and welcome new is designed mostly for general visita- rope work. friends to join us. The opening day tion. The second floor will be used NCKRI’s bat roost is the first artifi- event is over, but the party to study, primarily by researchers and office cial roost in the world to be incor- teach about, and manage caves and porated into a building’s design. It karst is just beginning. will be carefully monitored to better understand the needs of bats in general and the specific species that will occupy the roost. Video will be streamed to NCKRI’s exhibit hall and website and the data will be available to scientists for study. NCKRI Headquarters is a model of environmental low-impact and sustainable building and management features and practices. Such practices are especially important when building in karst areas. It also dem- onstrates how investing in environmentally friendly infrastructure both saves and earns money in the long run. NCKRI can now begin to move forward at an accelerated rate. We appreciate our friends who have sup-

An important aspect of NCKRI’s Opening Day Celebration was for This award is given to an individ- NCKRI to recognize and thank the ual or organization in recognition for community, organizations, and indi- exceptional volunteer service on a vidual friends who have been so sup- specific NCKRI project or activity. portive. This made the event the ideal No more than one award of this type time to launch NCKRI’s Awards Pro- will be issued each year. There is no gram. Two awards were given. limit to the number of times an individual or organization may receive this award. Dr. Stafford was the Editor-in- Chief in 2009 for NCKRI Symposium This award is given to a person 1, Advances in Hypogene Karst Stud- or organization in recognition of out- ies. He took on this entirely voluntary standing long-term volunteer service task during his first year as an assis- to NCKRI. No more than one award tant professor in the Geology Depart- of this type will be issued each year, ment at Stephen F. Austin State Uni- and no more than one per individual versity, Nacogdoches, Texas. In that or organization. tenure-track position he was expected Dr. Seiser epitomizes the type of to develop a hydrology and hydro- person for whom this award was de- geology curriculum for graduates and signed. She volunteered her time and undergraduates. A hydrology program talents day-in and day-out for NCKRI had not previously been offered in for over four years. She attended doz- that department, so Kevin was start- ens of meetings on behalf of ing completely from scratch. None- NCKRI. She gave dozens of pres- theless, he took on this additional entations to classes, workshops, project. conferences, and organizations for For those not familiar with the NCKRI and to promote NCKRI. requirements of editing a publica- She arranged the NCKRI- tion like this, it meant calling, e- sponsored cross-country trip for mailing, encouraging, and at times Australia’s Dr. Elery Hamilton- badgering authors to stay on sched- Smith and drove/escorted him ule in delivering their papers, and around the country for 3 months. then do the same for those review- She coordinated distinguished ing the papers. It meant working lectures, proofread publications, with the authors and printer to make handled administrative issues, and sure the photos would reproduce conducted field work throughout well, and to attractively lay out all her volunteer tenure. In many of the text, figures, and photos. It ways, she was the face of NCKRI required reading each paper several during its transition period from a times to make sure that errors were federal to non-profit institute, an- not accidentally introduced by the swering phones and e-mails, pro- revisions and layout. With this spe- viding information, attending cific publication, since it was functions, and otherwise filling in NCKRI’s first in the Symposium however she was needed. While other Series, it also meant drafting a Call obligations have recently reduced her for Papers, Instructions to Authors, activity with NCKRI, she still serves and other associated documents and as NCKRI’s liaison with the National procedures that will streamline Speleological Society and works to NCKRI’s work on future publica- increase the level of partnership be- tions. Lastly, it should be noted that tween the organizations. In many Kevin did not need to be coerced into ways, NCKRI would not have come this lead editorship. He saw the need, so far if not for the efforts of Dr. readily volunteered, and did a superb, Patricia Seiser. professional job.

chase lays the foundation ground- Advancement is active in the Carls- work for the fundraising program bad Rotary Club, the Carlsbad for years to come. What a benchmark year for Chamber of Commerce, the Tour- NCKRI! Not only did we move into NCKRI has teamed up with ism Association of New Mexico, and open a new facility but we also www.goodshop.com and the American Association of Muse- created and began to implement the www.goodsearch.com. Supporters ums, Association of Fundraising new Advancement Program. Just can now help raise funds for Professionals, New Mexico Mu- seven months ago the Advancement NCKRI by searching the internet seum Association, Texas Associa- Office was established to position, and shopping at web sites. tion of Museums, Museum Store support, and advance NCKRI’s mis- There was 100% participation in Association, and the Texas Asso- sion, and it is responsible for mem- annual fund giving by the Board of ciation of Non-profit Organizations. bership, fundraising and development, Directors during FY 2010-2011. NCKRI’s first list of contributors is news and communications, market- being published in this annual re- ing, community relations, and special port. It is a great start to a new events. fundraising effort. NCKRI is now registered at www.guidestar.org, Mission Fish/ eBay, grants.gov, the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office Charita- On October 25, 2010, Ann Dowdy ble Organizations Registrar, the became NCKRI’s first Advance- Better Business Bureau’s Wise ment Director. Ann has over 28 Giving Alliance, and New Mexico years of fundraising experience NCKRI’s Annual Membership pro- Non-profits. with a degree in Organizational gram kicked off on May 14, 2011. The Adopt-A-Bat program Communications from St. Edward’s The annual membership program is launched in May 2011 and will help University, Austin, Texas and phil- offered to all interested persons raise funds for the maintenance and anthropic certification from St. Ed- wanting to support NCKRI and to equipment needed for NCKRI’s Bat ward’s University and the Texas participate in the programs, activi- Roost. NCKRI Headquarters is the Association of Non-profit Organi- ties, and other opportunities offered first building in the world with a zations. by the National Cave and Karst bat roost as part of its design! The The NCKRI Board of Directors Research Institute and Museum. NCKRI roost is made of concrete adopted a Gift Acceptance Policy. You can join online at and it is a part of the building. Once Raiser’s Edge, a comprehensive www.nckri.org or call the Advance- the NCKRI roost is occupied, we development software program, ment office at 575-628-2702 to join will ask people to not get under the was purchased. This major pur- using your Visa, MasterCard, roost. We are installing tiny cam- American Express, or Discover eras in the roost. The metal doors in card. When you become a member, the floor of our Bat Roost Office on you will receive a quarterly digital newsletter, reduced rates on special presentations, classes, lectures, and rentals and other educational programs, as well as discounts in the Museum Store. NCKRI can now accept gifts of cash, in-kind, stocks and bonds, and through a new giving program called ―Legacy Cavers,‖ donors can leave a gift to NCKRI through planned giving. A ―Wish List‖ of items has been compiled by staff and is being dis- tributed to potential donors.

the second floor will let us in- Bat Conservation International stall cameras, Edwards Aquifer Authority microphones, Hoffman Environmental Research NCKRI’s Founding Partners and other Institute/Western Kentucky were those present and who played a probes into the University crucial role in NCKRI’s creation. roost without National Speleological Society Today, they continue to serve as ma- bothering the US Bureau of Land Management jor supporting partners in many ways. bats. You will US Fish and Wildlife Service Each Founding Partner maintains one be able to watch US Forest Service permanent position on NCKRI’s the bats on our website, and later in US Geologic Survey Board of Directors: one of our museum exhibits. US National Park Service City of Carlsbad, Each adoption is only $25 and in- New Mexico Institute of Mining cludes: a Certificate of Adoption, and Technology, and educational information about the US National Park Service. NCKRI Bat Roost and Bats, and Our Annual Giving Program rec- your very own ―Barty the Bat.‖ ognizes those individuals and corpo- You do not receive a live bat. For rations who made gifts or pledges Bat Conservation International more information and to Adopt-A- during FY 2010-2011: Carlsbad Municipal Schools Bat visit www.nckri.org. Bacon Lee and Associates Geological Society of America NCKRI’s Facebook page launched Margaret and John Barry Hoffman Environmental Research in conjunction with the opening of Paula Bauer and Dale Pate Institute/Western Kentucky Uni- the new building in May 2011. Join Dick Billings versity us on Facebook and follow our Dr. Van Brahana National Speleological Society adventures. Dr. Robert Brinkmann NASA NCKRI’s Distinguished Lecture Dr. Harry Burgess New Mexico Institute of Mining and Series was part of the programming Khloe Campbell Technology during the opening on May 14, Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce University of New Mexico 2011. Speakers included: Dr. Penny Carlsbad Current-Argus University of South Florida Boston, Debbie Buecher, Dr. John Carlsbad Museum and Art Center US Bureau of Land Management (Jack) Hess, and Geary Schindel. Carlsbad Radio Stations, 104.1 US Fish and Wildlife Service NCKRI supported the Carlsbad FM KCDY, 92.1 FM KATK, US Forest Service Museum & Art Center’s exhibit, 1240 AM KAMQ and MIX 104.1 US Geologic Survey ―Underground of Enchantment.‖ Richard Cervantes US National Park Service Todd Chavez Ann and Terry Dowdy Garden Mart, Inc. Emil Racovita Institute of Speleology Dianne Gillespie International Union of Speleology Jim Goodbar Karst Research Institute Dr. Ronald T. Green Ukranian Institute of Speleology and Gunn, Lee & Cave, P.C. Karstology Dr. John (Jack) Hess Hobby Lobby, Roswell JellyCat, Inc. Bat Conservation International Michael Kehs Edwards Aquifer Authority Ronal Kerbo Fort Stanton Cave Study Project Aaron Kirsten Hoffman Environmental Research KOBR-TV 8 Institute/Western Kentucky Uni- Lands’ End Business Outfitters versity Lucky Duck Printing LLC New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Pat Mack Mineral Resources Albert Marchione University of New Mexico Martha Mauritson US Bureau of Land Management Hazel Medville US Geologic Survey New Mexico State University at US National Park Service Carlsbad Papa Murphy’s

Dr. George Placitas Through Jesse Richardson gifts to the An- Fernando Santana nual Giving Geary Schindel program, our Dr. Patricia Seiser supporters dem- Sew What! onstrate their Dr. Kevin Stafford regard for the Bill Steele National Cave Dave Steensen and Karst Re- Thomas Strong search Institute, Judy Stubbs its mission, and Sunset Elementary School their desire to United Blood Services support that mis- US Bureau of Land Management sion. US Cable Community Channel 23 Give US Forest Service Online: The US National Park Service simplest way to Karen Veni give. Visit David Weary www.nckri.org J.G. Wheeler to make your gift. Give by Private gifts support the impor- telephone with a credit card: Call also be given anonymously. For tax tant mission of the National Cave and our Advancement Office at 575-628- purposes, the National Cave and Karst Research Institute. Your contri- 2702 and we will assist you in mak- Karst Research Institute is a 501(c)(3) butions enhance programs, provide ing your gift. with a tax exempt ID: #42-1741207. for excellence in staff, and support Give through the mail: Use the NCKRI has not retained any profes- research programs. Thank you for contribution envelope included in the sional solicitor and 100% of each your generosity and for making printed Annual Report to make your contribution is received directly by NCKRI a priority in your charitable gift. NCKRI. For more information on leaving a legacy, please call 575-628- giving choices. 2702. NCKRI’s Legacy Cavers are At the National Cave and Karst donors who have chosen to make a Research Institute, every gift is mak- planned or deferred gift through their ing a difference. Through Annual estate planning that will have an ever- Giving at NCKRI, donors and friends lasting impact on the organization. support the areas of greatest need; Planned or deferred gifts include: including scholarships, equipment, bequest through a will, charitable gift facilities, maintenance and improve- annuity, charitable remainder trust, ments, research, and exhibit develop- charitable lead trust, and gift of life Scholarship support is one of the ment. The annual fund is the corner- insurance, real estate, or other assets. most important ways to impact the stone of our fundraising program. Gifts such as this not only help lives of students. There are several NCKRI, but also provide the donor ways to support student scholarships with additional income, convert low at the National Cave and Karst Re- income assets to higher income search Institute: assets, help care for your surviving Through NCKRI’s Annual Giving family members, avoid long-term program; capital gains tax, reduce your estate By making a gift to an existing taxes, and generate income tax de- scholarship fund; or ductions. By creating a new scholarship fund. The NCKRI Advancement staff You can designate your program will work with you in arranging of choice and name the scholarship proper forms of recognition that fund in memory or honor of someone. reflect your personal gift’s purpose We would love to talk with you about and your preferences. Your gift may your ideas.

NCKRI expanded its electrical NCKRI personnel conducted our NCKRI staff hydrologist Dr. resistivity (ER) survey program this first use of a full 112 electrode array Lewis Land spent five days in De- year to include a broad variety of sur- over a projected southwest extension cember, 2010 conducting ER surveys face and subsurface karst features in of the Snowy River passage of Fort at White Sands National Monument southeastern New Mexico. This work Stanton Cave in the northern Sacra- (WSNM), as part of a long-term pro- made use of the AGI SuperSting R8/ mento Mountains. The surveyed ject conducted by colleagues with the IPTM resistivity equipment and Top- length of Fort Stanton Cave is cur- New Mexico Bureau of Geology and con GR3 global positioning system rently 23.8 km, making it the third- Mineral Resources. This investigation acquired during the previous fiscal longest cave in the state, after Carls- was the first externally-funded project year. Resistivity profiles collected bad Cavern and Lechuguilla Cave. using the Institute’s SuperSting resis- with the SuperSting equipment pack- Snowy River is a passage more than 7 tivity equipment. age illustrate vertical and lateral km long and its southern limit is near- variations in subsurface resistivity, ing the limit of what can be explored and are strongly affected by the pres- from the cave’s entrance. This project ence of air or water-filled conduits. involved deploying almost 700 m of The resistivity method is thus well- electrical cable with assistance from suited for investigations of karst phe- 10 volunteers from the Fort Stanton nomena. Cave Study Project. The results of the Depth of investigation of a resis- ER surveys show high-resistivity tivity survey is directly related to anomalies several hundred meters length of the array of electrodes. southwest of the end of cave survey in Many of the surveys conducted this Snowy River South, ~120 meters be- year used 112 electrodes in a pole- low ground level, indicating that the dipole configuration for a maximum passage continues in that direction for depth of investigation of ~230 m. at least another half kilometer. The goal of the larger study, which is funded by the National Park Service, is to characterize the local and sub-regional hydrology of the dune fields and adjacent areas within the Monument, and their relationship to regional hydrologic conditions in the Tularosa Basin. The gypsum dune sands at WSNM are an exceptionally challenging environment for conducting electrical resistivity surveys because of the very high contact resis- tance usually encountered between the electrodes and the sand. Results at WSNM show that resistivity methods can be conducted in aeolian dune sand. Total dissolved solids (TDS) content of groundwater contained within the dunes and adjacent areas appears to be the main fac- tor controlling resistivity distribution. In most areas surveyed, shallow perched aquifers containing water of variable TDS overlie an extensive, deeper, low-resistivity brine-filled aquifer system.

base of the Salado salt beds. NCKRI personnel also conducted Results of the survey show a electrical resistivity surveys adjacent Collapse of the JWS and Loco prominent zone of low resistivity di- to the JWS and Loco Hills sinkholes Hills brine well cavities prompted the rectly below the I&W Eugenie #1 in northern Eddy County, New Mex- New Mexico Oil Conservation Divi- wellhead, as well as other low resis- ico. Both of these sinkholes formed in sion (NMOCD) to review its regula- tivity zones beneath the site that rep- 2008 by the collapse of cavities cre- tions regarding brine well operations resent either open cavities or highly ated by brine wells solution-mining in the New Mexico oil fields. During fractured and/or brecciated zones that bedded salt in the Permian Salado the review, the I&W brine well facil- are saturated with brine. These low Formation ~140 m below ground ity, located within the city limits of resistivity zones extend to the north level. These surveys were conducted Carlsbad, New Mexico, was identi- beneath the highway intersection and as a proof of concept of the use of fied as having a similar geologic set- south beneath residential areas south electrical resistivity methods for in- ting and pumping history. Unlike the of the irrigation canal. The data sug- vestigations of brine-filled cavities northern Eddy associated with solution mining op- County sink- erations. Field assistance was pro- holes, which vided by volunteers from the Fort are located in Stanton Cave Study Project, National remote areas of Park Service, Pecos Valley Grotto, the southeastern and Bureau of Land Management- New Mexico Carlsbad Field Office. oil fields, the Data from an ER survey con- I&W operation ducted ~15 m from the southern edge is sited in a of the JWS Sinkhole show a near- more densely surface zone of high apparent resistiv- populated area ity, probably caused by air-filled pore within the city space in near-surface Quaternary allu- of Carlsbad vium. Most of the profile is domi- near a rail line nated by a ~130 m wide zone of very and the inter- low resistivity, slightly offset from section of two the position of the JWS Sinkhole as major high- projected onto the survey line. Resis- ways. A catas- tivity values of <5 ohm-m are consis- trophic collapse tent with high-salinity groundwater, in this area and suggest the presence of a large, would inflict brine- or brine-saturated breccia-filled extensive dam- cavity ~80 m below ground level. An age to individual property and civic gest that solution mining of the ER survey of the Loco Hills Sinkhole infrastructure. Salado Formation has caused signifi- showed similar results, but also re- On April 6-11, 2011, NCKRI cant upward stoping into overlying vealed a possible plume of hydrocar- personnel under contract with mudstone, dolomite and gypsum of bons from materials used to fill the NMOCD deployed six ER survey the Rustler Formation. sinkhole. lines over the I&W site. Each line NCKRI’s ER results provide was surveyed using the Institute’s additional insight to two other meth- Topcon GPS equipment. The pres- ods employed by NMOCD to define ence of urban infrastructure presented the size and shape of the cavity and significant challenges since electrical the condition of the surrounding bed- cable had to be deployed through rock and overlying alluvium. The densely populated areas, beneath purpose of these studies is to deter- chain-link fences, and across road- mine the best method for preventing a ways and an irrigation canal. Addi- collapse, and not accidentally trigger- tionally, many of these obstacles were ing a collapse in the process. Until potential sources of electrical interfer- remediation begins, an extensive and ence that could ruin the survey. In highly sensitive series of equipment spite of these challenges, all ER pro- monitors the site for the slightest files yielded coherent results and at- movement, and is connected to alarms tained a maximum depth of investiga- that notify local emergency services. tion of ~228 m, extending below the

NCKRI established this new report series in 2011 to publish the findings of its research projects. The reports are produced on a non-regular schedule determined by the timing of the investigations. This series is not limited to any topic or field of research, except that

they involve caves and/or karst. To minimize environmental impact, generally few or no copies will be printed. Digital copies are available for free at team. Plans continue for deploying a www.nckri.org. The first two Reports field testable unit in late 2011 or early of Investigation describe the I&W elec- 2012 in a selection of caves with mi- In the third year of this project, trical resistivity survey described on the crobially significant environments the unique, tunable acousto-optical previous page, and the Guatemalan and in other unique environments. laser spectrometer is being lab tested karst flooding remediation study de- NASA is funding this research, using with a test suite of cave geomicrobial scribed on the next page. caves as models for where microbial materials and other cave minerals life might be found on other planets. developed by Dr. Boston and her

In February 2011, NCKRI joined a humanitarian karst flood control project with Engineers without Bor- ders (EWB), a non-profit organization based in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Lewis Land spent two weeks in Guatemala working with EWB’s team of engineers to investigate the possibility of constructing a ditch to divert flood waters around the village of Las Cru- ces, in western Peten. Conversion of the forest up- stream of the village to agricultural land, combined with large storms, caused severe flooding in Las Cruces during the past three years. The area is underlain with limestone, and a small cave, El Tragante, is located in the center of town. Prior to clearing the forest, all floodwaters would flow into the cave. The villagers also use the cave to dispose of graywater and some raw sewage, which has obvious potential to contaminate the underlying karst aquifer. EWB was con- pit survey, coupled with observations cerned that their proposed flood con- of the local geology, indicate the pres- trol ditch might encounter near- ence of an irregular bedrock surface surface caves, exacerbating aquifer overlain by one to several meters of clay and silt. Limestone bedrock is Dr. Penny Boston in collabora- contamination and flooding, since tion with Dr. Diana Northup and Mi- some of the flooding was caused by probably more than 4 m deep over ~90% of the length of the proposed chael Spilde (University of New Mex- water rising from wells due to too ico) continues to analyze materials much water going underground. ditch. Near-surface bedrock (<4 m) was encountered in three pits over a collected during the 2008 and 2009 Dr. Land supervised the digging Naica expeditions to Chihuahua, of 24 test pits to determine depth to distance of roughly 500 m, along which more difficult construction Mexico. bedrock and the potential for shallow The Naica mines intersect several caves in the area. Results of the test conditions should be anticipated. No caves were encoun- caves, some of which are nearly as tered during test pit hot as 50° C (120° F) and contain excavations. gypsum crystals up to 10 m long. The Logistical fac- crystals formed when hot water filled tors prevented use of the cave, now drained by the mining, NCKRI’s electrical and hold promise for containing resistivity equipment unique microorganisms, trapped in to determine if caves tiny pockets of fluid in the gypsum. occur below the Based on DNA analyses, the thicker soils. If so, nearest relatives to the microorgan- the soils in the ditch isms found in this remarkable system floor might wash into include microbes from other caves the caves and col- elsewhere in the world, volcanic soils, lapse the ditch. heavy metals, and other unique envi- NCKRI proposed ronments. Dr. Boston’s work was lining the ditch to highlighted this year in the National prevent or minimize Geographic television documentary, infiltration that could Return to the Giant Crystal Caves, lead to collapse. the much anticipated sequel to the

Giant Crystal Cave.

Metadata Element Current Change from 2009 The Karst Information Portal (KIP) is a joint project of NCKRI, University Number of Classifications 173 +12 of South Florida (USF), University of New Mexico, and the International Un- Number of Controlled Names 7,840 +204 ion of Speleology (UIS). It is an on-line Resources Published for Viewing 4,992 +393 cave and karst reference source and research tool. Total Number of Resources 5,945 +417 KIP usage continues to expand. The graph below reflects usage through Total Distinct Resource Search Terms 38,416 +4,895 August 1, 2011. Google referrals account for 71% of visits. The registered user base has expanded to 385 individuals. Approximately 37% of the content Samples collected in 2010 from the collection includes digital objects. Dr. Penny Boston and her team Ghost Town area in the eastern branch We continue to digitize Dr. George of Lechuguilla Cave, Carlsbad Caverns Veni's private library of technical re- have begun to work on the geomicrobiology and mineralogy of granite caves National Park, New Mexico, have ports and make them accessible via yielded some of the smallest confirmed KIP. We continue to focus on adding in northern Spain and northern Portugal in collaboration with Dr. Juan-Ramon bacterial sizes known. These tiny bacte- records for content from Latin America ria and much larger cousins liberally including EspeleoAR, Noti-FEALC, Vidal Romani at the University of Co- runa, Spain. The team is testing the hy- coat biofilm and mud speleothems that Espeleocol, and Mundos Subterraneos. resemble drippy miniature stalactites. We just completed the digitization of pothesis that the presence of heavy microbial colonization on the granite walls These structures are excellent examples The Texas Caver and will be entering of a geomicrobial cave material that the metadata in the coming months. is helping to mobilize the silica in the granite rocks and enabling production includes mineral, clay, biological, and The Geoportal launched in March biofilm components. 2011 and we are populating it with con- of unusual opal speleothems within tent in several fields including karst, these systems. archaeology, and climate change. This repository offers online mapping services and access to initial core geospa- tial data that will opportunistically expand to include karst-relevant information. This marks a $52,000 new invest- ment in the KIP initiative in 2011. We are now working on a stand- alone Cave Life Bibliography. It is built on the foundation of data collected by several scientists, notably Dr. William Elliott and James Reddell. Dr. Elliott is working with us to get the framework in shape so that we can import the over 25,000 records that he and his colleagues have collected in past years.

education programs and work in tional audiences in NCKRI’s collaboration with others to elevate vision and mission. the world’s knowledge of caves and In June 2009 NCKRI Education Developing and facilitating karst. In accordance with our man- Director, Dianne Gillespie, began a educational and outreach prod- dates, NCKRI’s educational efforts fact-finding and partnership- ucts and programs for national will: building expedition across the US and international cave and karst 1. Further the science of speleology to establish a foundation for audiences. by: NCKRI’s Strategic Education Plan Utilizing mass communication (SEP). Ms. Gillespie found many Promoting the integration of media to disseminate informa- great cave and karst educational speleology and topics within tion, policies, and best prac- programs, some active, but some the framework of the sciences tices for cave and karst envi- suffering the effects of the US eco- and standardized curriculum. ronmental protection. nomic downturn. She used the Contributing to the develop- 6. Promote and develop environ- knowledge gained from the re- ment of the nation’s science, mentally sound and sustainable search expedition, and from the technology, engineering, and resource management practices directive and recommendations of math (STEM) workforce, at all by: recent legislation and reports, to levels. Developing, conducting, facili- develop the SEP and NCKRI’s Contributing to the develop- tating, or supporting cave and Education Program goals. ment of students in cave and karst symposia. karst sciences. Developing, conducting, facili- 2. Centralize and standardize spe- tating, or supporting trainings, leological information by devel- or workshops to disseminate oping a physical and virtual cave best practices for cave and and karst educational library. karst management. 3. Foster interdisciplinary coopera- Contributing to the develop- tion in cave and karst research ment of the cave and karst by: workforce. Developing and facilitating cave and karst research and stewardship projects. NCKRI’s Education Program Developing world-class cave encompasses two major projects, i- and karst research facilities. CAVER (International Cave/Karst 4. Promote public education by: Awareness Via Education and Re- Developing an interactive and search) and the National Cave and engaging cave and karst mu- Karst Museum (NCKM). We are seum. building a program to increase the Developing and facilitating perception, awareness, and knowl- formal, non-formal, and infor- edge of caves and karst by develop- mal educational programs. ing high-quality educational prod- Developing and utilizing mass ucts and programs and through stra- Maintaining or restoring the communication media, prod- tegic collaborations and partner- integrity of cave and karst systems ucts, and programs. ships. Program goals include: depends upon public understanding Building strategic partnerships 1. Provide a lifelong continuum of of their importance to people’s with other educational institu- informal educational opportuni- daily lives and as repositories of tions and programs to promote ties by developing inspiring significant biological, geological, and integrate cave and karst events, exhibits, expeditions, cur- hydrological, paleoclimatological, sciences and topics. ricula, tours, and publications to and cultural resources. Research, 5. Promote national and interna- engage the public in NCKRI’s education, and stewardship are im- tional cooperation in the protec- vision as well as cave and karst perative parts of NCKRI’s vision. tion of the environment for the topics, facilitated through mass NCKRI’s educational mission is to benefit of caves and karst by: communication, seminars, sym- provide cutting-edge academic and Engaging national and interna- posia, and NCKM.

2. Develop a Cave and Karst Stud- linguistically and culturally for inter- ies program facilitated through national audiences; multiple versions NCKM for cave and karst hobby- will be created. ists, citizen scientists, educators, students, and managers. Ms. Gillespie approached the 3. Develop and facilitate cave and Carlsbad Municipal Schools to partner with NCKRI in developing our karst related stewardship and citi- NCKRI Headquarters will con- temporary exhibits for our Opening zen science projects tain the National Cave and Karst Mu- Day Celebration. This meeting re- 4. Provide continuing education and seum (NCKM). NCKRI will develop sulted in the production of a donated training experiences for pre-service exciting, state-of-the-art exhibits, a piece to the NCKRI ―Local Caves and and in-service cave and karst edu- bookstore, and on-site education pro- Karst‖ exhibit by Sunset Elementary. cators and managers. grams through work with federal land 5. Build strategic partnerships with management agencies, the state of agencies and organizations con- New Mexico, the City of Carlsbad, ducting educational programs in New Mexico Tech, other university topics such as climatology, envi- partners, cave and karst organizations, ronmental ethics, environmental and local school districts. Exhibits sciences, geography, geology, hy- and educational programs will be drology, paleontology, and speleol- developed to attract visitors and in- ogy. form them about important cave and 6. Promote the development of middle karst issues. The NCKRI bookstore and high school students to seek will distribute educational materials careers in the fields of science, and products developed by NCKRI, technology, engineering and mathe- in addition to a variety of retail items matics, particularly in cave and related to caves and karst. karst related disciplines. Classroom space, when not used 7. Develop high-quality educational for meetings, workshops, confer- curricula for international distribu- ences, and other activities, will be tion through NCKRI’s consortium available for temporary exhibits on of partners. current research, and traveling exhib- 8. Promote the integration of cave and its. karst topics into international and national educational standards. 9. Develop and facilitate informal and NCKRI sponsors a local Boy formal curricula, products, and pro- Scouts of America (BSA) Career Ex- grams that elevate the public’s per- ploring-Venture Crew in Carlsbad, ception of caves and karst. New Mexico. A venture crew is a 10.Become a clearinghouse for cave BSA youth development program. and karst educational products, and Dr. Veni and Ms. Gillespie met Venturing gives young men and develop and acquire educational with Storyline Studios, NCKRI’s mu- women positive experiences that help resources for NCKRI’s physical seum exhibit designers to begin plan- prepare them to become caring and library and the Karst Information ning the development of permanent responsible adults. Portal. exhibits. They discussed caves, karst,

and the opportunities and challenges NCKRI faces with interpreting these resources. As a part of this meeting, i-CAVER (International Cave/ Ms. Gillespie continues to work the NCKRI team conducted in-cave karst Awareness Via Education and with Dr. Christopher Atchison, Geor- tours of two local caves to facilitate Research) will be NCKRI’s primary gia State University, and others to an understanding about caves and vehicle for international and national develop a unique field trip for the karst for Storyline. educational and outreach curricula, 2011 Geological Society of America programs and products (publications, Convention. This trip will promote maps, videos, teaching aids, etc.). i- opportunity for non-traditional, mo- Funding is approved for a bat CAVER will incorporate Project bility impaired geo-science students monitoring project at Jewel Cave Na- CAVERN, CAVER and Expedition to engage in learning in the field. It tional Monument. Video of the bats CAVER as those materials are devel- will include a research trip into a will stream as a live-feed to oped and refined, and then modified cave. www.nckri.org as a watchable wild-

life educational experience and ex- Conservation Divi- hibit. Ms. Gillespie will be working sion designed the with Jewel Cave National Monument US Forest Service staff to coordinate the educational Cave and Karst component of this project. Resource Manage- ment Training, which included the essentials of partnership cultivation. Cave and karst resources present The June 2010 land managers with unique conditions course was held in and challenges because these complex Elkins, West Vir- and intricate hydrological and eco- ginia in cooperation logical systems require individuals to with the Mononga- encompass and grasp multiple scien- hela National For- tific disciplines for effective manage- est, with a combina- ment. White-nose Syndrome (WNS), tion of classroom a newly discovered wildlife disease and field instruc- affecting hibernating bats, has placed tion. unprecedented demands on federal Our new website design features land and natural resource managers. a clean layout with simplified naviga- tion to allow users to quickly find the content they are looking for. You will You told us we needed a new be able to click easily and smoothly website and we listened. Over the past through our pages to find information few months, we have worked on a on NCKRI projects, programs, oppor- major overhaul of NCKRI’s website. tunities, and staff. Through the added The new website is designed to give a ―museum‖ section, you can investi- user-friendly experience with engag- gate NCKRI’s bat roost and help us ing content. Appearance is the most keep ―bat watch‖ as we await the arri- notable change (draft version below), val of our first furry residents. but the most significant change is in The new nckri.org is dynamic our approach. The new nckri.org ex- and ever changing; we like to think of pands our ability to educate the public it as an active educational tool. Over about the fragility and importance of the next few months, we will add new caves and karst environments and content and developing more features. their related resources. The primary We invite you to virtually explore the objective of the new NCKRI website mysteries of caves and karst with us is to provide an effective outreach and at www.nckri.org. WNS is a rapidly spreading and communication tool that will inspire Ever wonder what NCKRI is up poorly understood disease that has our audience to learn about caves and to? For quick information and up- caused the death of millions of bats. karst and to support NCKRI’s multi- dates, you can now follow us on Federal land agencies have issued faceted approach in protecting them. Twitter and find us on Facebook! closure of all caves on federal lands in the hope of slowing the spread of WNS and avoiding impact to cave- obligate biota. In addition, federal agencies have collaborated on a Na- tional WNS Management Plan, which raised the demand for proper management of both bats and critical bat habitat, and resulted in an increase in professionals responsible for cave management and thus the need for effective cave management training. The US Forest Service, NCKRI, and National Speleological Society’s

Cave and Karst Studies at New Mexico Tech (NMT) is NCKRI’s academic program and taught through NMT’s Earth and Environmental Sci- ences Department. A variety of regular courses and special topics are taught by Dr. Penelope Boston on a rotating 2-year frequency, several in scripts to journals, one in collabora- collaboration with other faculty (Dr. tion with NCKRI Scholar Laura Tom Kieft, Biology, Dr. Kent Condie Rosales-Lagarde. and Dr. John Wilson in Earth and

Environmental Science) including: Laura Rosales Lagarde, PhD Cave and Karst Systems Candidate, Geology, has submitted Kristina Daisy Morgan, MS Student, Cave and Karst Laboratory one paper and has two more papers in preparation on the origins of the hy- Hydrology, is working on the hydro- Advanced Topics in Speleo- logical and climate history of Fort hydrology drogen sulfide and other gases and waters flowing into Cueva de Villa Stanton Cave’s Snowy River Passage, Karst Tufa Spring Mound Research analyzing the highly structured mud Model Impact Energetics of Earth Luz and other sulfur caves and springs in the region of southern Ta- deposits in Mud Turtle Crawl, the and Mars main passages, and in Snowy River Moonmilk Research basco, Mexico. She anticipates de- fense of her dissertation in fall 2011. itself. She is developing pioneering Research Experience on Cave Pearl techniques never before applied to Origins caves, to look at dateable materials Fundamentals of Geobiology and clues to above-ground vegetation Sophie Sigstedt, MS Student, Survey of Geomicrobiology (pollen, plant crystals known as phy- Hydrology, defended her MS thesis, toliths, and diatom algae). Frontiers of Geobiology and Geo- Environmental Tracers in Groundwa- microbiology ter of the Salt Basin, New Mexico, Astrobiology and Implications for Water Re- Extraterrestrial Dissolutional Land- sources, in July 2010. forms Andre Richie, MS Student, Hy- The Fort Stanton Cave Snowy Astrogeology: Mars and Beyond drology, defended his thesis, Hydro- River Passage project continues in Spaceship Earth: Integrated Global geologic framework and development spite of White-nose Syndrome fears Planetary Science of a 3-D groundwater flow model of and current closure of the cave. Sam- Dr. Boston currently supervises the Salt Basin, New Mexico and ples collected in previous years are one Ph.D. student, two Master’s stu- Texas, in February of 2011 and is undergoing analysis by Dr. Boston, dents, two undergraduate senior the- currently working as a consultant at NCKRI Scholar Daisy Morgan, and ses, and four independent studies. AMEC Consultants in Socorro, NM. collaborators at UNM and elsewhere. During the 2010-2011 year, researchers and students of the Cave and Karst Studies program have en- Aaron Curtis, MS Student, Geol- gaged in excellent and exciting re- ogy, continues to analyze ice samples search, continuing ongoing projects from Antarctica obtained during the and beginning a new study of climate previous two field seasons as part of signals contained in cave sediments. his work on the physical and biologi- With extensive grant submission ac- cal dynamics of fumarolic ice caves tivities and laboratory supervision by and towers on Erebus Volcano. He Dr. Rasima Bakhtiyarova, the pro- will be returning to Antarctica for a gram has set a very high academic third field season in November of and research standard at NMT. 2011. He has submitted two manu-

NCKRI’s broader educational outreach efforts extend to universities outside of New Mexico Tech. General support through information is provided to many students. Formal sup- NCKRI attended, sponsored, and/ port is currently provided by Execu- or had a booth at many conferences tive Director Dr. George Veni, who during the past year: th served this year on the committee of 6 Congress of the Federation of one student at The University of Latin American and Caribbean Spe- th Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), and leological Associations and 70 one student at Harokopio University, Anniversary of the Cuban Spe- Athens, Greece. Their projects are NCKRI became the 48th Member leological Society; Matanzas, Cuba. th summarized below. Society of the American Geological 12 Multidisciplinary Conference Institute (AGI) in February 2011. on Sinkholes and the Engineering AGI is a non-profit federation of 49 and Environmental Impacts of Keith Muhlestein successfully geoscientific and professional asso- Karst; St. Louis, Missouri. defended his dissertation proposal to ciations that represents more than 2011 International Conference on conduct thermal imaging studies of 120,000 geologists, geophysicists and Karst Hydrogeology and Ecosys- caves and karst features. His hope is other earth scientists. Founded in tems; Bowling Green, Kentucky. to develop the technology for reliable 1948, AGI provides information ser- Geological Society of America application in environmental assess- vices to geoscientists, serves as a Convention; Denver, Colorado. ments of karst areas. To expand his voice of shared interests in the profes- National Speleological Society skill set and range of experience, sion, plays a major role in strengthen- Convention; Essex, Vermont. Keith volunteered to work on a week- ing geoscience education, and in- National Speleological Society long cave thermal imaging study in creases public awareness on how the Board of Governors Meeting; Albu- the Mojave Desert in April 2011. geosciences play crucial roles in soci- querque, New Mexico. ety’s use of resources, resiliency to U.S. Geological Survey Karst Inter- natural hazards, and interaction with est Group Workshop; Fayetteville, the environment. AGI membership Arkansas. will be integral to fulfilling NCKRI’s The first public event at NCKRI mission in educating the public, poli- Headquarters occurred on March 21- cymakers, and the geoscience com- 25, 2011 when NCKRI hosted the munity about how karst functions, Bureau of Land Management’s Cave and the resources and challenges it and Karst Resources Management presents. Workshop. Additionally, NCKRI staff organized or co-organized the following events: Dr. Land: NCKRI has become the first Af- Co-chaired a technical session at filiated Organization of the Interna- the 2011 International Conference tional Union of Speleology (UIS). on Karst Hydrogeology and Eco- During the UIS’ Bureau meeting in systems, and gave two presenta- Miljana Golubović Deligianni Jedovnice, Czech Republic, in April tions on the Eddy County sinkholes defended her Ph.D. dissertation on 2011, the Bureau voted unanimously and geophysical investigations at geographic information system (GIS) to accept NCKRI. The UIS and Fort Stanton Cave, New Mexico. modeling of the karst geomorphology NCKRI are already working in part- Co-chaired a technical session on and land use in the Ksiromero region nership on the Karst Information Por- engineering geology and evaporite of western Greece. Her study area has tal and the International Journal of karst at the 2010 Geological Soci- limestone mountains surrounding Speleology, so this affiliation formal- ety of America Convention. gypsum plains and hills dotted with izes an already firm and strengthening Dr. Veni: alluvium-filled sinkholes and poljes relationship. The UIS is in essence the Moderated a discussion on interna- (large, flat-floored sinkholes). She has United Nations of cave organizations, tional karst research cooperation at published six papers on her work; with 60 members nations united to the 2011 International Conference another is due in fall 2011. advance cave exploration and study. on Karst Hydrogeology and Eco-

2-E Mars Sample Return Science Drs. Boston, Land, and Veni and Ms. Definition Team (Joint NASA/ESA working group) in Lisbon, Portugal The Multidisciplinary Conference Gillespie were invited to give the fol- at the meeting of the Mars Explora- on Sinkholes and the Engineering and lowing presentations and lectures: tion Program Analysis Group. Environmental Impacts of Karst, gener- Organisms from the Depths of the ally called ―the Sinkhole Conference,‖ Earth to the Depths of Time: The Recent geophysical investigations at is now under NCKRI’s management. Geological Legacy of Metabolism at Fort Stanton Cave, at the Pecos Val- Since 1984, this highly respected inter- the National Research Council Bioin- ley Grotto of the National Speleologi- national conference series has been spired Energy Workshop in January cal Society in Carlsbad, New Mexico. instrumental in bringing together geo- 2011. Results of hydrological research by scientists and engineers to better pre- Planetary Protection on Mars Sample NCKRI personnel at Fort Stanton vent and fix many of the land use chal- Return Mission at the NASA Plane- Cave to the Carlsbad Rotary Club, lenges that occur in karst areas. The tary Protection Subcommittee Meet- November 2010. Sinkhole Conference’s Organizing ing in November 2010. Discoveries in the Snowy River Pas- Committee unanimously agreed to turn R.A.F. Penrose Lecture The Planet sage of Fort Stanton Cave to the Ar- over its management to NCKRI. Within at the April 2011 meeting of tesia chapter of the Desk and Derrick NCKRI is keeping the Organizing the American Philosophical Society, Club. Committee intact and continues to ex- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in honor Artesian groundwater resources in pand that team with more excellent of Nobel Laureate Dr. Baruch Blum- karstic aquifers of the Pecos Valley karst engineers and geologists, as well berg. region of New Mexico, to the Pecos as NCKRI staff. The 13th Sinkhole Caves on Earth, Mars and Beyond to Valley Grotto of the National Spe- Conference will be held on May 6-10, the CalTech Summer Science Pro- leological Society, Carlsbad, and at 2013 in Carlsbad, New Mexico. This gram which is jointly held each sum- the Enchanted Evenings educational venue will be the furthest west for the mer at NMT and Westmont College event at Bottomless Lakes State Park, conference, which has visited 11 other (Santa Barbara, California). This pro- Roswell, New Mexico, June 2011. cities throughout the eastern and central gram targets groups of exceptional Cave and karst research institutes, United States. There is already discus- high school students at the junior/ FEALC, and the UIS: directions of sion of possibly taking future meetings senior level and Dr. Boston has pre- growth for partnerships and success, to other countries. sented to them for seven consecutive keynote lecture by Dr. Veni for the years. 6th Congress of the Federation of Microbial ecosystems at depth: Con- Latin American and Caribbean Spe- trasts in nutrient and other environ- leological Associations, Matanzas, mental gradients between natural Cuba, August 2010. caves and ultra-deep mines, New Hydrogeologic controls on the evolu- Mexico Geological Society Spring tion of the Edwards Plateau Karst, Meeting, April 2011, Socorro, New Texas, USA to the Winter Technical Mexico. Meeting of the Southwest Regional of The Near Subsurface Habitat of the National Speleological Society, Mars: Caves, Vugs, & Drilling at the December 2010. International Mars Habitability Con- Introduction to NCKRI’s artificial bat ference in Lisbon, Portugal in mid- roost for the joint Bat Conservation June 2011. International - US Forest Service Bat The results of deliberations on the E- Workshop. . systems. Co-chaired the 12th Multidisciplinary Conference on Sinkholes and the En- gineering and Environmental Impacts of Karst; Dr. Land chaired its Sink-

hole Mitigation and Repair session. NCKRI also sponsored: The 3D photography exhibit, Under- ground of Enchantment, at the Carls- bad Museum and Art Center, which will begin traveling outside of New Mexico next year.

NCKRI’s Distinguished Lecture Series now has a new home at NCKRI Headquarters. The first of these lectures were given during NCKRI’s Opening Day Celebration with presentations from: Dr. Jack Hess, Executive Director of the Geological Society of Amer- ica, Introduction to Caves and Karst. Debbie Buecher, Wildlife Biolo- gist, Buecher Biological Consult- ing, Bats: Masters of the Night Sky and Meet a Live Bat! Geary Schindel, Chief Technical Officer of the Edwards Aquifer Authority, It’s Not Easy Being Karst. Dr. Penelope Boston, Geomicrobi- ologist and Academic Director of NCKRI, The Planet Under Our Feet: From Giant Crystals to Rock- eating Microbes.

ing group completed a review and NCKRI co-sponsors the Edwards revision of the Battle for Bats bro- Aquifer Authority’s Distinguished chure and an article for the NSS Lecture Series in San Antonio, Texas. News. This committee developed During the period of this annual re- outreach programs and materials port, Dr. Ralph Ewers spoke on Un- for the National Speleological Soci- derstanding Karst Characteristics ety’s 2011 Convention in Glen- and the Transport and Storage of wood Springs, Colorado. Contaminants Within Them in Sep- tember 2010, and was followed in April 2011 by Dr. John Mylroie who Beginning in March 2011, presented the seminar, The Spectrum NCKRI now hosts the monthly meet- of Karst: Rock, Climate, and Hydrol- ings of the Pecos Valley Grotto of the ogy as Cave Controls. National Speleological Society on the third Thursday of each month at 7 pm. Anyone interested in caves, cave NCKRI is a recognized sponsor for exploration, cave research, or any the United Nations Environment other cave related topic is welcome to Programme’s Year of the Bat, as attend. well as being the North American Dianne Gillespie developed a Contact. presentation targeting a young audi- Dianne Gillespie, NCKRI’s Educa- ence at the Carlsbad Library as a part tion Director, serves on the Na- of their water education week. Partici- tional WNS Communications and pants explored an artificial cave, lis- Outreach Working Group. This tened to stories about caves, and committee consists mainly of gov- learned about karst and the water cy- ernmental agency representatives. cle. However, for balanced prospective, non-profit informal educators have NCKRI Staff: been invited to take part. The work- Participated in the Carlsbad Cham- ber of Commerce’s annual Bat Bri-

opened on June 30, 2011. Dianne Gillespie: Recorded in a 30-second spot at KOBR Roswell, New Mexico, to raise awareness of NCKRI’s Opening Day Celebration. Along with Dr. George Veni, was recorded in a special report for the KOCT-TV Carlsbad Community Channel to raise awareness of NCKRI and its Opening Day Cele- bration. Dr. George Veni: Gave New Mexico radio interviews on the opening of NCKRI Head- quarters to the Mike Jaxson Show, PVBX Radio, Artesia; Frank Nie- meyer Show, Carlsbad Radio KATK and KCDY, Carlsbad; and the Bob Scholl Show, Radio Station KCCC, Carlsbad. Provided several Carlsbad area newspaper interviews on the construction and opening of NCKRI Headquarters. Was interviewed by the Canadian gade. This delegation of commu- press about a hotel explosion in nity leaders visits leaders of New Dr. Penelope Boston: Quintana Roo, Mexico, that could Mexico government at the state Starred in Return to the Giant Crys- have been related to explosive capitol in Santa Fe to raise their tal Caves, the much anticipated gases in an underlying cave. awareness and support for issues in National Geographic sequel to the the City of Carlsbad and Eddy Giant Crystal Cave, that aired in County. the US and Canada in October and Celebrated our fourth year of part- December 2010. This production nership with the Bureau of Land revisited the Naica Cave in Chihua- Management, National Park Ser- hua, Mexico, showed a newly dis- vice, and National Forest Service in covered cave in the area, and pre- Relay for Life, a nationwide cam- sented new information about the paign to raise awareness and funds microbiology of this unique cave to fight cancer. system. Regularly attended meetings of the Taped a television special with Phil Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, Platt Bad Universe highlighting Dr. Carlsbad Department of Develop- Boston’s work with extremeophiles ment, and Carlsbad Rotary Club, in Spider Cave, Carlsbad Caverns and participated in related activities National Park, New Mexico. supporting new businesses and Broadcast on the Discovery Chan- community leaders. nel in August and September 2010. Participated in the annual Carlsbad Advised on scientific issues and Chamber of Commerce Business participated in 3D filming of field- Fair. work and interviews with the team Promoted and supported the devel- that developed a new exhibit on opment of the Underground of En- origins and early evolution of life, chantment, a 3D photography ex- Emergence: A New View of Life’s hibit featuring Lechuguilla Cave, at Origin, at the New Mexico Mu- the Carlsbad Museum and Art Cen- seum of Natural History and Sci- ter. ence. The new exhibit officially

The NCKRI Board of Directors presented its first awards to two outstanding volunteers: Dr. Patricia Member since 2005, Chairman since Member since 2005; permanent posi- Seiser and Dr. Kevin Stafford (see 2006, Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics tion representing New Mexico Tech. page 5). and Computer Science. Hazel is a (NMT) Master’s Degree in Account- The Board met in Lakewood, retired Computer Engineer/Manager ing and Information Systems, and is Colorado in November 2010, and in who now spends much of her time also a CPA. Richard is NMT’s Asso- Carlsbad, New Mexico, in May 2011, surveying caves in Hawaii and Colo- ciate Vice President of Research and following NCKRI’s Opening Day rado. She was the President Pro-Tem Economic Development. He is re- Celebration. The May meeting was and Government Liaison for the Na- sponsible for administrative affairs preceded by a strategic planning re- tional Speleological Society, the including budget preparation, fiscal treat for the Board and staff where Technical Program Chairman for the and project management, proposal NCKRI’s progress was reviewed and 15th International Congress of Spe- development and contract negotiation. NCKRI’s plans were examined and leology, and is currently the Director better defined. In addition to Board of the West Virginia and Hawaii Spe- meetings, the Executive Committee leological Surveys. In 2003, Hazel Member since 2005; permanent posi- met via telephone monthly, and sev- was honored to receive the William J. tion appointed by the Mayor of Carls- eral meetings of the entire board were Stephenson Outstanding Service bad, New Mexico; Bachelor’s Degree held electronically and over the tele- Award from the National Speleologi- in Industrial Relations, Master’s De- phone. cal Society in recognition of her long gree in Fire and Emergency Manage- Two directors retired from the term contributions to the society. ment Administration; Master’s of Board this year—Ronal Kerbo Business Administration; Ph.D. in (National Park Service, retired) and Economic Development. Harry repre- David Kampwerth (US Fish and sents the City of Carlsbad’s participa- Wildlife Service). Their positions will Member from 2000-2002; 2006 to tion with NCKRI. He is the City Ad- be filled before the October 2011 ministrator but also has an extensive meeting. present, and Vice-Chairman since 2006. Bachelor’s Degree in Geogra- caving background, having worked phy. Dale has been the National Park previously with the National Park Hired Ann Dowdy as the Advance- Service Acting Cave and Karst Pro- Service at Carlsbad Caverns and ment Director. gram Coordinator since May 2007, served on the Board of the National Approved a purchasing policy. and the Supervisory Physical Scientist Cave Rescue Commission. He also taught caving for the National Out- Affiliated with the American Geo- (Cave Specialist) at Carlsbad Cavern door Leadership School. logical Institute in February 2011. National Park since July 1991. Held a one day strategic retreat in May 2011. Accepted the Education Direc- tor’s Strategic Education Plan. Approved an Applied Science and Management Agenda pre- pared by the Board committee. Approved NCKRI sponsorship of the Karst Waters Institute meeting Carbonate Chemistry: Reactions and Processes in Aquifers and Reservoirs, to be held in August 2011, and sponsorship of the National Cave and Karst Management Symposium, to be held in Oc- tober 2011.

clude building non-traditional library abandoned mines, and written policies Member since January 2009; perma- collections to support scientific re- regarding karst/mine resources. He nent position representing the Na- search and publication, and applying has 35 years of caving experience, 31 tional Park Service (NPS); Bachelor’s bibliometric research methods to years underground abandoned mine Degree in Geology, Master’s Degree document and ―visualize‖ scholarship experience and education, and 20 in Environmental Systems/Applied in the sciences. He is the Operations years of professional karst conserva- Geology. Dave is the NPS Geologic Manager and a founding partner of tion education and experience. Resources Division Chief. One of his the Karst Information Portal. responsibilities is oversight and support of the Service-wide cave and Member since June 2009, Cave and karst resource management program. Member since 2007; Bachelor’s in Karst Resources Specialist for the US Industrial Engineering; Bachelor’s in National Park Service (NPS) for 31 Geology; Master’s in Geophysics; years until March 2007. Ron retired Ph.D. in Hydrology. Ron is a hydro- from the NPS as the National Cave Member since 2005; Member at geologist with the Southwest Re- and Karst Program Coordinator and Large of the Executive Committee; search Institute, San Antonio, Texas, the acting Director of NCKRI Ph.D. in Geology. He is the Executive where much of his work focuses on Director of the Geological Society of karst aquifers. America (GSA). Prior to joining GSA Member since May 2010; Bachelor’s in 2001, he was Executive Director of and Master’s Degrees in Agricultural the Division of Hydrologic Sciences Charter board member; Bachelor’s and Applied Economics from Vir- and Vice President for Academic Af- Degree in Park and Recreation Man- ginia Tech; Juris Doctor from the fairs at the Desert Research Institute agement; graduate studies in cave and University of Virginia School of Law; in Nevada. He serves on the boards of karst resources, geology, and geomor- Jesse is an Associate Professor in the Karst Waters Institute and Longs phology. Jim works in Carlsbad for Urban Affairs and Planning at Vir- Peak Council of the Boy Scouts of the US Bureau of Land Management ginia Tech and a practicing attorney. America, as well as NCKRI. He is a (BLM) as the Senior Cave and Karst Fellow of GSA, the National Spe- Resources Specialist with the Wash- leological Society, and the Cave Re- ington Office. He serves as BLM Member since 2004; Bachelor’s De- search Foundation. New Mexico State Cave Coordinator gree in Geology and a Master’s De- and Senior Cave and Karst Specialist gree in Geography. Geary is the Chief for the BLM Pecos District and the Technical Officer of the Edwards Member since May 2010; Bachelor’s Carlsbad Office. His primary respon- Aquifer Authority in San Antonio, and Master’s degrees in Geology, sibilities: establish policy and provide Texas, and directs the Aquifer Sci- Ph.D. in Geography. He recently left guidance on cave/karst resource man- ence Research Program. The Edwards the University of South Florida to agement to all BLM offices, serve as Aquifer is a major karst aquifer that become the Director of Sustainability the international point of contact for provides water to more than 1.7 mil- Studies at Hofstra University and the all cave/karst related issues and re- lion people in south-central Texas. Director Sustainability Research at quests for assistance, develop and the National center for Suburban conduct training for cave/karst re- Studies. Bob works on many karst sources, and develop best manage- Member since June 2009, Bachelor’s issues, particular karst policy, urban ment practices for land use in karst. Degree in Geology from George Ma- karst, environmental sustainability, son University, Master’s in Geology and geomorphology. from Virginia Tech. He has worked Member since May 2010; Bachelor’s for the US Geological Survey Degree in Fishery Biology, and (USGS) in Reston, Virginia, since Member since 2009; Master’s Degree graduate work in karst ecology, geol- 1988; represents USGS on the in Library and Information Science. ogy, and hydrology. He has worked NCKRI Board. A research geologist, Director of Academic Resources at for the Colorado Division of Wildlife, he is Chief of the USGS KARST Pro- the University of South Florida Wyoming Game and Fish Commis- ject, which includes hydrogeologic Tampa Library, Todd’s research fo- sion, US Bureau of Land Manage- studies and geologic mapping in the cuses on understanding scholarship in ment, and is currently with the US Missouri Ozarks and Shenandoah the sciences including the tools and Fish and Wildlife Service. David has Valley of the Virginias, and work on processes underlying its creation, taught national cave and karst man- the new national karst map in coop- organization, discovery, communica- agement and underground abandoned eration with NCKRI and the National tion, and preservation. Activities in- mine courses, characterized karst and Speleological Society.

ence center and now serves around 700,000 visitors a year. Ms. Dowdy is a member of national level organizations such as the American Association of Museums (AAM), where she serves as an AAM Peer Reviewer, and the International Association of Fundraising Profession- als/New Mexico Chapter. She is also a member of the Texas Association of Non-profits, The Texas Museum Asso- ciation, Museum Store Association, the Tourism Association of New Mexico, Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, and the Carlsbad Rotary Club.

Ms. Gillespie began working for NCKRI in June 2009 and brings with her a wealth of teaching experience, both formal and informal. While most of this experience has been gained in Kentucky and Tennessee classrooms teaching at many levels, she has also Dr. Veni is an internationally rec- Ms. Dowdy joined NCKRI in Oc- conducted and assisted with cave and ognized cave and karst hydrogeologist. tober 2010 and brings an impressive karst education programs with the Na- Prior to NCKRI, he owned and served background in fundraising. She has a tional Park Service, American Cave as principal investigator of George Veni Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Conservation Association, and Western and Associates for more than 20 years. Communication, St. Edward's Univer- Kentucky University, among others. He has conducted extensive karst re- sity, Austin, Texas, and a 2010 Certifi- Ms. Gillespie holds a Master’s Degree search throughout the United States and cation in Non-profit Leadership and in Education, with a focus on science in several other countries. His adminis- Management from the Texas Associa- and history. Since 2009, she has served trative work includes serving as the tion of Non-profit Organizations. as the Education Division Chief of the Executive Secretary of the National Ms. Dowdy is a 28 year veteran in National Speleological Society. She is Speleological Society’s Section of Cave the fundraising and marketing profes- an active and experienced cave explorer Geology and Geography for 11 years, sion. With a broad career in this field and surveyor on multiple and diverse President of the Texas Speleological she has worked at an art museum, sci- projects. Survey for 13 years, Adjunct Secretary ence museum, crisis center, private Ms. Gillespie brings a broad and of the International Union of Speleol- school and private foundation, and a creative set of talents to NCKRI, with a ogy (UIS) from 2002-2009, and UIS national nonprofit before coming to Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre, and Vice President of Administration since NCKRI. Ms. Dowdy was part of a team through a decade of theatrical and tele- 2009. He has served as a committee of museum professionals that built the vision production experiences with member of geological, geographical, Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) Kentucky Educational Television, the and biological dissertations at The Uni- in Tampa, Florida. MOSI is the 5th state of Florida, Discovery Channel, versity of Texas and Harokopio Univer- largest science museum in the United and more. Since joining NCKRI, she sity (Greece), and taught karst geo- States. A campaign goal of $37 million now serves on education and cave and sciences courses for Western Kentucky was raised to expand the museum to karst management committees for University for 12 years. He has pub- 250,000 square feet that included an Carlsbad Municipal Schools and the US lished and presented over 180 papers IMAX Theatre. MOSI's membership Forest Service, and conducts cave and and five books, on hydrogeology, biol- reached an all time high of 20,000. karst education programs nationally. ogy, and environmental management in MOSI grew from a regional science karst. center to a nationally recognized sci-

Debbie joined NCKRI in January 2008 to organize and lead its administrative activities after working as a secretary in the Truth or Consequences Municipal School District for 11½ years. She received an Associate’s De- gree in Secretarial Administration from New Mexico State University at Carls- bad, and has over 20 years experience as a secretary and administrative assis- tant. Debbie works as interim publisher for NCKRI, producing the annual report series and other materials. She is also a piano accompanist, having worked with many high school students, several churches, a community chorus, and many soloists, both vocal and instru- Lisa works for the New Mexico mental Tech Earth and Environmental Science Department as the Earth Systems Spe- cialist, and worked as the Cave and Karst Studies Program Liaison with Dr. Land is a karst hydrogeologist NCKRI until January 2011. Lisa re- with the New Mexico Bureau of Geol- ceived her Bachelor’s and Master’s of ogy & Mineral Resources (NMBGMR), Science degrees in geology from New He serves as the Bureau’s liaison with Mexico Tech. Focus areas included NCKRI and as NCKRI’s lead geophysi- grant budget management, technical cal investigator. Prior to his career as a meeting development, proposal man- hydrogeologist, Dr. Land spent eight agement, national conference exhibit- ing, scientific and technical reporting, years in the petroleum industry explor- Dr. Boston teaches classes in cave ing for new oil reserves in the Mid- and karst science, geomicrobiology, and geographic information systems Continent and Rocky Mountain regions astrobiology, and global systems, and (GIS). of the U.S., and offshore West Africa. supervises graduate students studying In addition to her role with NCKRI, He received his Ph.D. from the Univer- those topics at New Mexico Tech. She Lisa was also the program manager for sity of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, received a National Research Council several other large projects including where his doctoral research included Postdoctoral Fellowship at NASA- the CRONUS-Earth Project, the New submersible investigations of submarine Langley Research Center, has held posi- Mexico-EPSCoR Undergraduate Re- sinkholes in the Straits of Florida. Be- tions at the National Center for Atmos- search Opportunities Program (REU), fore coming to work for NCKRI and pheric Research, the University of the Chemistry Interdisciplinary Science NMBGMR in 2002, Dr. Land spent two Colorado, University of New Mexico, for the Environment REU Program, and years with the North Carolina Division and founded/operated her own non- the NASA instrument project: New of Water Resources conducting geo- profit research institute (Complex Sys- Mexico Exoplanet Spectrographic Sur- physical surveys of aquifers beneath the tems Research Inc.) for 14 years before vey Instrument. coastal plain of North Carolina. joining NCKRI in 2002. She is a Fellow Lisa has conducted fieldwork to Dr. Land’s current research focuses of the NASA Institute for Advanced model the neo-tectonic evolution of the on regional investigations of karstic Concepts, Past President of the Associa- Owens Valley in California. She also aquifers and associated phenomena in tion of Mars Explorers, Senior Editor of worked on an REU project which fo- southern New Mexico. He has served Astrobiology, member of the NASA cused on using GIS techniques to un- on several graduate student committees Advisory Council Committee on Plane- derstand the spatial distribution and at New Mexico Tech (NMT), and is an tary Protection, member of the National temporal changes of the Mora Valley, adjunct faculty member in the NMT Academy of Sciences COMPLEX com- New Mexico, acequia (irrigation canal) Department of Earth and Environmental mittee, and past advisory board member system. Sciences. He is a Past-President of the for the Journal of Cave & Karst Stud- In February 2011, Lisa had to leave New Mexico Geological Society ies. the NCKRI team. Lisa was an out- (NMGS), and served for five years on standing staff member, and we wish her the NMGS Executive Committee. well as she advances her career.

partners. The Leadership Carlsbad NCKRI staff polish and expand their program participants are required to skills whenever possible. Formal establish a community project. Di- training attended by one or more staff anne Gillespie’s group developed a members in the past year includes: wiki site to promote eco-tourism The Application of Geophysics in for the region. Dianne spent a con- Karst and Applied Karst Hydro- siderable amount of time from De- geology with Emphasis on Dye cember 2010 to April 2011 in co- Boston, P.J. 2010. INVITED PAPER. Tracing and Groundwater Monitor- developing the website plan, mar- Location, Location, Location! ing, both taught at the 12th Multidis- keting materials, and web content. Lava caves on Mars for habitat, ciplinary Conference on Sinkholes BCI -Forest Service Workshop in- resources, and science. Journal of and the Engineering and Environ- cluded three days of classroom Cosmology 12:3957-3979 special mental Impacts of Karst. time, two evenings of field work, issue on Mars missions and explo- Understanding Karst Characteris- and a tour of Carlsbad Caverns. ration. tics and the Transport and Storage Part of the classroom lessons fo- of Contaminants Within Them cused on the importance of artifi- McKay, C.P., Schulze-Makuch, D., through the Edwards Aquifer Au- cial bat habitats, such as NCKRI’s. Boston, P.J., ten Kate, I.L., thority’s Distinguished Lecture Build Your Internet Identity, by the Davila, A.F., and Shock, E. 2011. Series. Carlsbad Department of Develop- Astrobiology. January/February, Strictly Business: The Dale Carne- ment, offered helpful tips and tools 11(1): 2-8. doi:10.1089/ gies Immersion Seminar. on reaching online shoppers, creat- ast.2010.1122. Leadership Carlsbad -This pro- ing a web presence, and produc- gram, through the Rotary Club and tively marketing products and ser- Northup, D.E., Melim, L.A., Spilde, Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, vices. Topics included how to get M.N., Hathaway, J.J.M., Garcia, has been great for increasing the your company noticed on the web, M.G., Moya, M., Stone, F.D., visibility of NCKRI and for estab- expanding your reach for finding Boston, P.J., Dapkevicius, lishing local contacts and potential new customers and creating an M.L.N.E., and Riquelme, C. online presence. 2011. Lava Cave Microbial Com- Reach Online Shoppers munities Within Mats and Secon- with or without a Web- dary Mineral Deposits: Implica- site, given by the Carls- tions for Life Detection on Other bad Department of Devel- Planets. Astrobiology. AST-2010- opment, offered ideas and 0562.R2. strategies to teach how to develop web presence, Northup, D.E., Snider, J.R., Spilde, how to get your company M.N., Porter, M.L. van de Kamp, noticed, and how to pro- J.L., Boston, P.J., and Nyberg, mote your products and A.M. 2010. Diversity of rock var- services. nish bacterial communities from Cave and Karst Man- Black Canyon, New Mex- agement. This intensive ico. Journal of Geophysical Re- introduction to cave man- search – Biogeoscience. agement practices was 115:G02007. presented by the Bureau of Land Management at NCKRI Headquarters. Land, L. 2011. Geophysical records Designed for state and of anthropogenic sinkhole forma- federal land managers, tion in the Delaware Basin region, this course covered topics southeast New Mexico and west that included the Federal Texas, USA. Proceedings of the Cave Resources Protec- Twelfth Multidisciplinary Confer- tion Act, significant cave ence on Sinkholes and the Engi- identification, cave inven- neering and Environmental Im- tories and monitoring, pacts of Karst, St. Louis, Missouri and White-nose Syn- (proceedings in press). drome, presented in classroom and field settings.

Land, L. 2011. Geophysical prospect- Land, Lewis, and George Veni. 2011. Land, Lewis A. 2010. Geophysical ing for new cave passages: Fort Electrical resistivity survey: I&W characterization of anthropogenic Stanton Cave, New Mexico, USA. brine well, Eddy County, New sinkholes in the Delaware Basin Proceedings of the Twelfth Mul- Mexico. Report of Investigations region, southeast New Mexico and tidisciplinary Conference on Sink- 2, National Cave and Karst Re- west Texas. Geological Society of holes and the Engineering and search Institute: 14.. America Convention. Denver, Environmental Impacts of Karst, Colorado (on CD). St. Louis, Missouri (proceedings in press). Gary, Marcus, Shade, Beverly, Gary, Land, Lewis, and Veni, George. 2011. Robin, and Veni, George. 2010. Geophysical investigations of Veni, George. 2011. National Cave Spatial and temporal recharge anthropogenic karst phenomena in and Karst Research Institute: variability related to groundwater southeastern New Mexico. Pro- growing capabilities and federal interconnection of the Edwards ceedings, 2011 International Con- partnerships. U.S. Geological Sur- and Trinity Aquifers, Camp ference on Karst Hydrogeology vey Karst Interest Group Work- Bullis, Bexar and Comal counties, and Ecosystems. Bowling Green, shop, Fayetteville, Arkansas, April Texas. Geological Society of Kentucky, 98-99. 26-29, 2011, Scientific Investiga- America Convention. Denver, tion Report 2011-5031: 113-117. Colorado (on CD). Veni, George. 2010. Cave and karst

research institutes, FEALC, and Veni, George. 2011. The National Johnson, Steve, Schindel, Geary, and the UIS: directions of growth for Cave and Karst Research Institute: Veni, George. 2010. Tracing partnerships and success. Keynote a new home for the Multidiscipli- groundwater flowpaths in the Ed- Address, Program General y nary Conference on Sinkholes and wards Aquifer Recharge Zone, Cientifico, 6th Congress of the the Engineering and Environ- Panther Springs Creek Basin, Federation of Latin American and mental Impacts of Karst. Program northern Bexar County, Texas. Caribbean Speleological Associa- with Abstracts, 12th Multidiscipli- Bulletin of the South Texas Geo- tions and 70th Anniversary of the nary Conference on Sinkholes and logical Society, 51(3): 15-46. Cuban Speleological Society. Ma- the Engineering and Environ- tanzas, Cuba, 3. mental Impacts of Karst. St. Louis, Missouri, 26 (proceedings in press).

Veni, George, Miljana Golubović Deligianni, and Kosmas Pav- lopoulos. 2011 Land use and limitations in the sinkhole and polje karst of the Ksiromero Region, western Greece. Pro- gram with Abstracts, 12th Multidisciplinary Conference on Sinkholes and the Engi- neering and Environmental Impacts of Karst. St. Louis, Missouri, 23-24 (proceedings in press).

Johnson, Steve, Schindel, Geary, and Veni, George. 2010. Tracing groundwater flowpaths in the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, Panther Springs Creek Basin, northern Bexar County, Texas. Ed- wards Aquifer Authority Re- ć port No. 10-01: 112.

National Park Service State of New Mexico COMBINED

FY 10-11 FY 10-11 FY 10-11 FY 10-11 FY 10-11 FY 10-11 Combined Combined Budget Actuals Budget Actuals Budget Actuals REVENUE State General Funds Appropriation 0 0 444,887 451,764 444,887 451,764 Federal Fund Appropriation 323,000 323,000 0 0 323,000 323,000 Fund Balance (Carryforward) 0 0 630,146 630,146 630,146 630,146 TOTAL REVENUE 323,000 257,886 1,075,033 1,081,910 1,398,033 1,404,910 EXPENSES Staff 188,049 158,606 222,138 186,531 410,187 568,793 Students 0 0 15,000 31,212 15,000 26,703 Project Salaries Sub-total 188,049 158,606 237,138 217,743 425,187 595,496 FRINGE BENEFITS Staff 60,176 57,229 70,121 56,317 130,297 113,546 Students 0 0 300 113 300 113 Fringe Benefits Sub-total 60,176 57,229 70,421 56,430 130,597 113,659

TOTAL PERSONNEL EXPENSE 248,225 215,835 307,559 274,173 555,784 709,155 OPERATING EXPENSES Rent, Utilities, Telephone 8,530 33,800 36,994 33,800 45,524 Supplies & Expenses 18,651 29,771 33,470 121,671 52,121 151,442 Facility Fixtures 0 0 0 16,375 0 16,375 Travel 16,000 15,697 20,010 25,270 36,010 40,967 Contractor Services 500 198 950 500 1,148 Property & Equipment 1,500 1,119 26,754 78,082 28,254 79,201 NMT Administrative Support 0 0 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 NMT "Indirect" from NPS Budget (8%) 22,450 22,104 0 0 22,450 22,104 NPS "Indirect" to GRD at 6% on NPS appropriation 20,000 20,000 0 0 20,000 20,000 TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSE 79,101 97,419 134,034 299,342 213,135 396,761

TOTAL ALL EXPENSES 327,326 313,254 441,593 573,515 768,919 1,105,916

Annual Report Cover 2011_Spread 8/10/11 11:28 AM Page 1

National Cave and Karst Research Institute 2010-2011 400-1 Cascades Avenue Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220-6215, USA ANNUAL REPORT www.nckri.org