Sorry for any cross-postings.
--- The Hoffman Environmental Research Institute through its Center for Cave and Karst Studies and in cooperation with Mammoth Cave International Center for Science and Learning, and Western Kentucky University, offers a series of weeklong field classes focusing on cave and karst science and caving. CAVE GEOMICROBIOLOGY July 11-15, 2009, Mammoth Cave, KY Instructor: Dr. Hazel Barton Ever wondered what's up down there? Cave microbiology is a course for interested speleologists and students who want an introduction to both microbiology and the types of microorganisms found in caves. The course will start with basic microbiology concepts, including the use of microscopes, Petri plates and staining, and will move toward more complex manipulations. During the course, we will discuss the role of microorganisms in caves, from ecosystem science to the ways in which these organisms alter the cave environment itself. Field trips will be used to help students recognize microorganisms in caves, how they alter cave chemistry and how to study their interactions with the environment. All students must have basic caving gear and be physically fit for hiking and horizontal caving. GENERAL INFORMATION: Participants will need an adventurous spirit and good physical conditioning to get the maximum benefit from these courses. Past participants have included undergraduate and graduate students, cavers, cave guides, geologists, hydrologists, engineers, teachers and college professors, as well as individuals desiring an exciting and educational vacation experience. All participants must be high school graduates and in good physical condition. This program also requires all participants to carry medical insurance coverage. COURSE FORMAT: Professors typically lecture in the mornings with cave and surface trips scheduled for the afternoons. Special talks, slide shows, and trips into the cave are often scheduled after dinner. Activities may include: 1) all day trips into Mammoth Cave, 2) surface trips into the Park and the surrounding area, and 3) laboratory and various field exercises. Additional information on this workshop and other Karst Field Studies workshops offered this summer, please visit the Karst Field Studies website at http://caveandkarst.wku.edu/summerclasses.html.
