above, Close to the Edge, Canada's second deepest cave
I'm not posting this to comment on the tragedy that happened in Utah last month (here). I have the deepest sympathy for John Jones, his friends, family and also the 50+ people how struggled to save his life.
The news does remind me of a point I need to make. I've spent a huge amount of my professional career making the underground world look enticing, but the flip side is that most caves are in reality cold, black dangerous places. It is easy to get hurt, get stuck, get lost.
So if you want to explore underground, please be safe. Go with a group that is experienced. If you don't know one, contact the NSS in Huntsville, Alabama. They can help you find people in your area who are happy to help you find the right way to enjoy the underground.
-Stephen Alvarez

Really love your piece, its a heavy subject and hard photographs, but we can see a little bit of hope in the distance, I hope you will continue your work.
Posted by: Micaël Martel | December 04, 2009 at 05:38 PM