The Reason Behind The Closing Of Dunbar Caves

In my original post about Dunbar Cave State Park, I mentioned that the caves we had ventured to see, were closed, and closed indefinitely. I wanted to take the time to explain the reason behind the closing of the beautiful park's intricate cave system. The culprit is White Nose Syndrome, and this epidemic, I'm finding, is more than a debilitating nightmare for all bat species affected by it. 

The hibernating bat populations that thrived in this particular cave have shown signs of a fatal disease called "White Nose Syndrome". The syndrome's name is derived because of a whitening affect that is visible around the mouth, ears, and on the wings of the infected bats. White Nose Syndrome, or WNS, is caused by a fungus thought to have been brought over from Europe by early settlers; scientists trust this lead because the same fungus is found in regions of Europe, and somehow, their hibernating bats have evolved to overcome the syndrome and showcase their immunity. 

This fungus invades and ingests that bats' fat reserves and cripples their wings, leaving them unable to fly, which results in starvation. Unfortunately, since 2006, this syndrome has had an explosive outbreak across the central and northeastern parts of the United States, as well as some portions of Canada. This epidemic, according to all resources I've researched, is named the worst wildlife disease outbreak in the history of North America. Since Wildlife Preservation Specialists and Scientists don't have a cure and are only in the early stages of developing a treatment, hibernating bat populations have decreased in the eastern United States by almost 80% with a loss of 6.7 million bats and counting. The mortality rate is so high because where one bat is found to contract the disease and bring it back to it's hibernating roost, 70-90% of the bats will contract it as well. Some caves have reported a higher mortality rate with whole colonies disappearing. 

Studies have shown that WNS only affects the hibernating species, which make up half of the forty five species known. Pollinating bats and those that migrate long distances don't seem to be affected, but can play a vital role in the spreading of the fungus. In an effort to slow this rapidly spreading epidemic, caves all across the nation are closing down. Since the fungus can be easily carried and transferred by people exploring cave to cave, it's at least one variable that can be controlled in this situation. While other caves remain open in some areas of the infected states (Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia) many caves that are closed have either contracted the syndrome, or aren't taking the chance.

In conjunction with the tragedy of losing millions of bats, the United States may see a decent decline in crops. That's because bats are nature's built-in pest control for all bugs and insects, including large locusts that are known to heavily destroy crops in an abundance.

So while it was a disappointment to be unable to go through the underground tunnel of mazes, and possibly spot a blind-yet-furry friend, the environmentalist side of me felt guilty once I uncovered the truth behind the closing. So, I did some more research to see if there was a fund where I might be able to donate, and promote to others who want to help in this cause. I found a website that is dedicated to just that. The direct link for donating purposes can be found here: https://www.supportbats.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=298

I encourage anyone who is passionate about the environment, and especially about this case, in particular, to donate in hopes of bringing scientists closer to a treatment, and closer to a cure.

Until next time, happy venturing!

-Your Visionary Voyager

(Resources and references found here: http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/campaigns/bat_crisis_white-nose_syndrome/Q_and_A.html & http://www.nwhc.usgs.gov/disease_information/white-nose_syndrome/)

Dunbar Cave State Park, Clarksville, Tennessee

Today has been a beautiful day! The afternoon weather peaked at 67 degrees, the sun was out, the sky was clear, and we set out on our first excursion, ten minutes from where we're currently staying. Our destination? Dunbar Cave State Park.

At first I didn't know what to expect, driving down a residential street filled with single family homes and duplexes. Then I got a little discouraged when the parking lot for the national park shared a lakeside view to a golf course. How could there possibly be caves and trails in what seemed so anti-secluded? But I'll tell you, about three minutes down the concealed, leaf-laden path, I finally saw what I couldn't fathom from the parking lot.

The mouth of the cave and all around the outer walls is open and welcoming to the public. There are informational boards set up with black and white pictures showing an amphitheater-like setting where people would gather and listen to music and "party". It's because even in the hottest summer months the mouth of the cave expels cool air. At least they were taking advantage of nature's natural air conditioning! 

I discovered, however, the cave entrance to the tunnels was actually closed. A locked gate and a warning sign intact, I later found out, upon researching the national park itself, the cave is closed indefinitely. And the reason behind it's closure is a sad story indeed, but something that I feel everyone should be made aware of, so please see the following post The Reason Behind The Closing Of Dunbar Caves.

But, for someone who has spent twenty-five years on flat land and beaches, I think I have a pretty good excuse for being excited about some rocks, some trails, and some mountains; those of you that have grown up among this lush landscape are probably rolling your eyes, but I know you would be amazed at the sight and sound of the ocean! I will tell you this though, this park is definitely worth the trip if you plan to come here or find yourself in the area. We hiked Recovery Trail, the longer of the two trails mapped out along the park. The trees overhead provided us with shade that made for even cooler weather, and the flux in elevations made for some great exercise. An informational post marked before the trail states that it takes about forty minutes to hike, but it all depends on your walking pace. Since I stop to take photos, listen to the many bird calls and the wind through the trees, and keep an eye out for deer, my pace is a little slower. The park closes at sunset, so it's just a disclaimer that if you don't get your car out before the gate closes, plan on spending the night (and I didn't see any place to set up camp).

If you feel as if you didn't see all of the wildlife you thought you would, stop by the park's informational area in the white building to the right of the parking area. Austin Peay State University students have cataloged all known species in the area, and they have a taxidermy display that showcases their findings. Also, a tip to the reader: the earlier in the day you visit the park, the better the weather, and the quieter it is (meaning the less people there are tromping through the trails) the more likely you are to see some deer, a fox, etc. Since we visited on a Tuesday, the weather was a little nippy, and we went early enough that other human presences weren't scaring things off, we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a white-tailed doe.

You'll have to see the beauty for yourself, but I did take some pictures that encompass the overall feel of the area; here are my four favorites:

Feeling Small, Mouth of Dunbar Cave, Clarksville, TN

Stone Detail, Outer Cave Walls, Dunbar Cave, Clarksville, TN

Cracks and Crevices, Dunbar Cave, Clarksville, TN

Nature's Stairway, Dunbar Cave State Park, Clarksville, TN

Until next time, happy venturing!

-Your Visionary Voyager

Clarksville, Tennesse

And so, we've arrived! Originally Florida natives, my fiance has just transplanted us to a small town in Northern Tennessee called Clarksville. We are located just four exits before the Kentucky line (which will make for an easy trip for things-to-do-and-see in the "unbridled spirit" state). If you're curious as to the exact location within this fine state, we can be found, approximately, where the red dot is present in the picture below.

Before trekking here, I had to do my research; a state I had never stepped foot in before, and a town I've never heard of, I was anxious to see what we'd come to call home. Twelve hours away from where we had begun to build a life, Tennessee is a state that boasts a beautiful countryside and mountain ranges; this scene is a far cry from our flat lands and blue-green oceans in Florida. This is what I've discovered, most interestingly, about Clarksville:


Located forty five miles northwest of central Nashville, Clarksville dates back to as early as 1714 when French settlers began inhabiting the land that we now know, in present day, as Nashville. In 1785, after a survey of the Cumberland and Red Rivers in conjunction with land purchases from native Indian tribes, Clarksville became Tennessee's first incorporated city and was named for General George Rogers Clark. General Clark was a renowned Revolutionary War hero, a "Frontier Fighter" in his time, and was also the brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Clarksville was founded on the Cumberland River which allowed the city a commercial lifeline. Flowing downstream over forty miles, Flat Boats and Steamboats of the early 1820s ran a trade of cotton, tobacco, oats, and soybeans through Nashville, up and down the Ohio River, and into the Mississippi River to New Orleans. Due to high demand from a European market, Clarksville became the largest market in the world for growing and distributing dark-fired tobacco, primarily used in smokeless products; this is perhaps the greatest trade achievement in the area.

Fort Campbell Military Reservation, home of the 101st Airborne Division, is located in the northwestern portion of Clarksville and spills over the Kentucky line. Although the majority of its area lies in Montgomery and Stewart counties in Tennessee, the post office for the Reservation is positioned on the Kentucky side, and so is considered a Kentucky base. Boasting over fourteen thousand people at the turn of the century, Fort Campbell is a prime reason that the economy is stable in this area. Austin Peay State University is right behind it, sustaining a college atmosphere in a quaint downtown area closest to the riverfront. Small dives, mom-and-pop eateries, and many family owned businesses dot the landscape of this fifth largest city in the state. 95.5 square miles in area, Clarksville is the ninth fastest growing city in our nation, today. Also considered one of the south's most historic cities, The Leaf-Chronicle, Tennessee's oldest newspaper, was founded right here in my newly claimed backyard.

The average point of elevation above sea level here is 490 feet, and so far, according to my humidity calculations, I don't feel like I'm losing a pint of water every time I step outside to go to the car. That, for me, is what I find most interesting as a born-and-raised Floridian :) Oh! And the fact that it's the beginning of April and I'm still donning a jacket!


But, enough with the history mumbo-jumbo. I know where I'm currently laying my head to rest. Anyone can do a little research online, or open a book, right? The reason I started this blog is because my journey from Florida to Tennessee has inspired me to personally trek a portion of each of the fifty United States. We are now positioned beautifully to where we can make short car rides and weekend trips to different cities, in different states, of our choice. I'm not used to be so land-locked, or having other states and environments so close to my grasp, so my aim is to take everyone behind-the-scenes to places you may know about, but more importantly, to places you've never heard of throughout our great country. I'm all about the hidden gems we will be finding on our voyages. Along the way, I will be sharing some things that I am most passionate about: beautiful weather, amazing food, breathtaking views, and artistically-spun photography of the whole experience.

So ditch your high school history books and put your TV on mute. I'm experiencing history while forging my own at the same time. There's nothing better than a first-hand experience, so get inspired. Drive those extra hours to venture somewhere new. Brave that slightly shabby hotel; you know you're only sleeping there anyway. Get online and spend some time researching nearby cities you've never heard of, and go some place you've never been before. You'd be surprised what lies in your proverbial backyard. You only live once, right? Check back often, I'll be trek, trek, trekking. Until next time, happy venturing!

-Your Visionary Voyager

My Top Three Favorite Cumberland Riverwalk Pictures:

Span of the Riverwalk's Walking Route, Clarksville, TN

The Rivercenter at the Cumberland River Walk, Clarksville, TN

Sunset Across the Cumberland River, Clarksville, TN

(Sources I'd like to thank for help with the city's history: http://www.cityofclarksville.com/Community.php & http://www.permanentchangeofscenery.com/history.html)