State closes Illinois Caverns due to possible white-nose syndrome threat to bats


http://www.bnd.com/2010/04/26/1231827/state-closes-illinois-caverns.html#ixzz0mGTN1YAQ

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is closing state-owned and managed caves to try and help slow the spread of the mysterious white nose syndrome which is affecting bats.
That includes Illinois Caverns in Monroe County which will no longer be open to visitors. It also applies to five other IDNR sites in other parts of the state.
White-nose syndrome is a wildlife disease that has killed hundred of thousands of bats across the northeaster United States the past three years and is spreading. It has recently shown up in Missouri.
"The evidence collected to date indicates that thehuman activity in caves and abandoned mines may be assisting the spread of white-nose syndrome, said IDNR Director Marc Miller.
The IDNR does not have the authority to close caves on private land but it is encouraging others to follow the IDNR's example.

that's a shame. I have been planning on going there "someday", I guess i should have gotten a group together sooner.

I wonder if that's the real excuse or a money issue?

And do they really think the neighborhood kids are going to stay out and honor the closed status?

White nose is fungal in nature, and the theory is that humans are carrying spores in on their hair and shoes.. hmmmmm

http://www.fws.gov/northeast/pdf/white-nosefaqs.pdf

good info about the syndrome and the fungi that cause it...

ah man! I really wanted to go to Illinois Caverns, and had planned for it soon. Drats.

And do they really think the neighborhood kids are going to stay out and honor the closed status?

White nose is fungal in nature, and the theory is that humans are carrying spores in on their hair and shoes.. hmmmmm

They've put a gate on the entrance to some of the other caves around here to keep people out over the past few years.

I was fortunate enough to visit IL caverns a couple years ago and it was a good time, glad I didn't miss out.

I read yesterday that Missouri is closing several caves for the same reason.

..as well as Iowa..