CATALOG OF VIDEO PROGRAMS

This listing of video programs is in alphebetical order. Click on the letter of your choice to go to the appropriate section.

[A] [B] [C] [D] [E] [F] [G] [H] [I] [J] [K] [L] [M] [N] [O] [P] [Q] [R] [S] [T] [U] [V] [W] [X] [Y] [Z]

The A's      [TOP]

APPALACHIAN CAVING, RAMBLING IN TIME & SPACE Video of a slide program by Will White on his observations on caves and caving over time. Presented at the 1992 DC Grotto Christmas Banquet
V623
Cave Areas
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
44:00 minutes. Comment: Slide Program. Also available on DVD (D69)
ANCHIALINE LAVA TUBES AND THEIR BIOTA Video of a slide program by Dennis Williams on the biota of coastal lava tubes with tidal phreatic water.
V408
Biology
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
32:07 minutes. Comment: Slide Program

The B's      [TOP]

THE BAT, THE BLOSSOM, AND THE BIOLOGIST A fascinating explanation by Dr. Donna Howell of the symbiotic relationship between the bat and the agave (century) plant, told with wry humor and plain language
V412
Biology
Dr. Donna Howell
Professional, non broadcast
25:36 minutes. Also available on DVD (D51)
BATS, BATS, BEAUTIFUL BATS This light-hearted presentation set to a catchy tune is designed to introduce children to bats. Produced by Susan Barnard of Atlanta Zoo with help from BCI.
V413a
Biology
Susan Barnard of Atlanta Zoo with help from BCI
Professional, non broadcast
25:36 minutes.

Comment: Also on this tape, Bats are Beautifull.

Also available on DVD (D60a)

BATS ARE BEAUTIFUL A good introduction to bats, their diverse nature, and their contribution to the ecology.
V413b
Biology
Jack Schmidling, 1985
Professional, non broadcast
25:36 minutes.

Comment: Also on this tape, Bats, Bats, Beautifull Bats

Also available on DVD (D60b)

BATS OF AMERICA A very entertaining video with scenes showing bat of America catching prey, pollinating desert flowers, rearing young, etc
V406
Biology
©BCI, 1990
Professional, non broadcast
16:00 minutes. Also available on DVD (D49)
THE BAT THAT CRACKED THE FROG CODE An outstanding video of a story about Dr. Merlin Tuttle's work in Panama with the fringe-lipped frog-eating bat. Stunning photography.
V414a
Biology
©BBC, 1982
Professional, non broadcast
21:55 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "MERLIN'S BATS" V414b. and Also available on DVD (D53b)
BEYOND THE LOST WATERFALL

High drama as cavers brave heavy water to penetrate into virgin territory in Culverson Creek Cave, WV. Fictional story by Dave Socky includes an original score for the theme music. From the dust jacket:

"This video is about caves, caving, and cavers. It is about challenges, exploration and discovery in a unique fragile environment. It illustrates the variety and types of cave passages that a caver may encounter… grottos with delicate formations, wet stream crawls with rushing water, scalloped walking canyons, and much more. Travel along with fellow cavers as they embark on a journey into the cold, muddy, and wet world of the underground. Follow along as they discover a maze of new passages beyond the lost waterfall."

V745
Individual Caves
David Socky, Hodag Video Productions ©1985
Amateur
 
20:50 minutes.  
BLUE SPRINGS CAVE This small Tennessee cave yielded to further discoveries in 1989, and now includes over 31 miles of mapped passage. Its spectacular decorations are captured by Fred Baumann in this short video.
V747
Individual Caves
Fred Baumann,1995
Informal
15:40 minutes.  
BORN TO CAVE WILD

This special remake of the Steppenwolf classic captures Speleo-Americanus, its development and habitat, in original video and song. A good laugh and great visuals. Earlier version was the preview for the Elkins NSS Convention. From the dust cover:

Even if you are an anthropologist, biologist, archeologist or some other kind of -ologist, I’ll bet you have never heard about the Familarius Americanus caveat SpeleoAmericanus Pan Troglodytes. This video portrays the first ever recorded sighting of this strange and exotic troglobyte. This rare footage not only shows the creature in its natural environment, but by using the latest in stop action video technology, the SpeleoAmericanus’ birth and developement is captured on tape for all to see. There are legends about the SpeleoAmericanus, for he is a shy and elusive creature. Only a few cavers have been fortunate enough to observe his kind, and lived to tell about it.

V939
Micsellaneous Programs
David Socky, Hodag Video Productions ©1999
Professional
9:05 minutes.  
BRAINSTORM 'CAVES' This segment, produced by a Phoenix TV station for a local kids' series, explores the world of caves and cave critters for the middle school set. Filmed in Kartchner Caverns and includes an in-depth interview with its discoverers. Produced by Ron Mella with consultation by Ray Keeler. Fast-paced, informative, and fun.
V940
Micsellaneous Programs
Ron Mella with consultation by Ray Keeler. ©KTVK, 1999
Professional
23:03 minutes.  
BREAKTHROUGH IN BROWN'S DEPRESSION, NY Video of an entertaining slide program presented by Peter Haberland on the 1992 discovery and exploration of a major cave just to the west of NSS's McFails Cave.
V737
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1993
Amateur
19:30 minutes.  
BRIDGE DAY 1988 A documentary of the rappelling and base jumping activities at the New River Gorge Bridge on 10/15/88. The video of this 800-foot drop is well done with narration & musical background.
V909
Micsellaneous Programs
Alex Sproul, 1988
Informal
27:14 minutes.  
A BRIEF HISTORY OF AMERICAN CAVING An excellent and entertaining video on the history of American caving with emphasis on the northeast.
V921
Micsellaneous Programs
Art Palmer and Peter Grant, 1992
Professional, non broadcast
36:30 minutes.  
BURIED TREASUER: KENTUCKY'S SALTPETER MINES IN THE WAR OF 1812 This video is about the history of salt peter mining in caves, cliffs, and shelter during the war of 1812. The very beginning of salt peter mining in the late 1700's is covered. This video contains many still pictures and graphics from historical documents. It includes interviews with 5 or 6 different persons in various fields of salt peter mining. This program covers the various locations of saltpeter works plus the different designs and techniques that were used in saltpeter mining along with some of the social aspects, like how many workers were required, the use of slaves versus local workers, and others.

Produced by:
Gary A. O'Dell
Jim Kiffmeyer
Jeffrey Hill

This video was created as a class project by a group of students at Morehead State University in History, Geography, and Communications.

V954
Micsellaneous Programs
Gary O'Dell, 2002
Amateur
45:00 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D25)
BURNS CAVE #2

This West Virginia cave is only accessible during periods of extreme drought, and even then it's a wetsuit challenge. Once inside, however, it's large, dry borehole. A chance to see some very pristine cave. From the dust cover:

Burns Cave #2, in Greenbrier County, West Virginia, presents an especially challenging trip. Normally the cave is siphoned shut within 500 feet of the entrance. However, under drought conditions, the full siphon turns into a near siphon with only about three inches of air space at one location. This is just enough space to let cavers through. This video is from footage shot on a caving trip which took place on October 11, 1997. The primary purpose of the trip was to document on film and video some of the wonders of this cave, which is usually not open because of the siphons. The program shows the need for full wetsuits, but after the wet entrance series is traversed, cavers can change into dry clothes and enjoy some excellent caving. Big booming trunk passages, challenging side leads with virgin cave, and beautiful white formations are some of the features that draw cavers to Burns Cave #2.

V757
Individual Caves
David Socky, Hodag Video Productions ©1999

Amateur

 

14:22 minutes.  

The C's      [TOP]

CALL FOR HELP

This video is a short fictional account of a caving accident and the ensuing rescue effort in a difficult and vertical cave. The purpose of this video is to show a realistic portrayal of the organization and techniques of cave rescue, something every caver should be familiar with. This is an excellent educational video which can be used as an introduction to the topic of cave rescues. In this video you will see what the initial medical team does at the beginning of a rescue, how a patient is secured in a stokes litter and how the patient is extracted through cave passage of various difficulties. Finally, you will see how difficult and technically challenging it can be to get the patient out of a vertical cave.

V927
Micsellaneous Programs
Paul Stevens and the Eastern Region, NCRC, 1995

Amateur

24:19 minutes.  
CASTLEGUARD: CHALLENGE UNDER THE GLACIER

This classic early caving film follows an expedition attempting to find the end of this unusual and difficult Canadian cave.

V718
Individual Caves
©National Film Board of Canada, 1974

Professional

50:44 minutes.  
CASTLEGUARD 1988: USING CAVE RADIO

An early spring expedition to this challenging Canadian cave attempts to prove the usefulness of a cave radio.

V719
Individual Caves
Ian Drummond, Bob Montgomery, and others of the Alberta Speleological Society.

Professional

28:00 minutes.  
CAT TRACK PASSAGE

Follow a group of cavers as they tour Berome Moore Cave, one of Missouri's longest, and the focus of decades of project caving. A highlight is the tracks of a large cat which roamed the cave via an entrance which has never been found (the present one is man-made).

V748
Individual Caves
Jim Padgett & Greg Small, 1995

Amateur

31:22 minutes.  
CATHEDRAL CAVE and CATHEDRAL CAVE RESTORATION

First program: A tour of this very nicely decorated Missouri cave by Greg Small and Jim Padgett.

Second program: The efforts of Missouri cavers to remediate and conserve this spectacular cave are highlighted.

V756
Individual Caves
Jim Padgett & Greg Small, 1995

Amateur

16:40 and 15:40 minutes.  
CAVE BIOLOGY and CAVE BIOLOGY #2 and CAVE BIOLOGY FOR CAVERS

First program: Video of a good introductory slide program by Horton Hobbs III on cave biology presented during the Second Annual Biology Field Camp.

Second program: Video of a slide program by Horton Hobbs III on how cave animals adapt and evolve. Presented during the Second Annual Biology Field Camp.

Third program: Dave Culver and Horton Hobbs III leading cavers during the Second Annual Biology Field Camp through various West Virginia caves to observe biota in situ.

V410
Biology
Paul Stevens, 1993

Amateur

34:46 and 37:35 and 17:44 minutes. Comment: Slide programs. Also on DVD (D52)
CAVE CONSERVATION AND ETHICS

This 12 minute video is designed to foster a greater understanding of the world underground, to encourage safe enjoyment and to promote efforts for the conservation of these unique resources. It is not intended as a "How to" video of caving techniques.

V206
Conservation
Tom Zannes ©2000. Electronic Films, Inc and Guadalupe Mountains Association

Professional

11:26 minutes. Comment: Winner of the Best of Show at 2001 NSS Photo Salaon. Also on DVD (D21)
CAVE DIVING - THE NEED FOR TRAINING A short primer on the dangers of cavern diving and the consequences that await the unprepared.
V111
Safety & Techniques
Mike Garman and Brett Hemphill. ©Hydro-Geo, 1997
Amateur
5:07 minutes.  
CAVE SAFE I: AN INTRODUCTION TO BASIC CAVING Part 1 of a 3-part series by Andy Sparrow of the UK. Shows how to organize a caving trip, choose the best equipment, take safety precautions, negotiate obstacles, survive in an emergency, and understand cave formation.
V108
Safety & Techniques
©Third Eye Films, 1993
Professional
65:00 minutes.  
CAVE SAFE II: ROPES, RIGGING, LADDERS, & LIFE-LINES Part 2 of a 3-part series by Andy Sparrow of the UK. Shows how to choose a suitable rope, tie a range of useful knots, select safe anchors, lifeline safely, rig ladder pitches, and avoid problems and hazards.
V109
Safety & Techniques
Andy Sparrow, ©Third Eye Films, 1993
Professional
55:00 minutes.  
CAVE SAFE III: SRT AND ADVANCED ROPEWORK Part 3 of a 3-part series by Andy Sparrow of the UK. Covers kitting up, rigging, getting up and down (including rebelays & directionals), pull-downs, problems, and emergency techniques for self and buddy rescue.
V110
Safety & Techniques
Andy Sparrow, ©Third Eye Films, 1993
Professional
76:00 minutes.  
CAVE SURVEYING (TSS) This admittedly amateur video nonetheless provides a very solid introduction to the techniques of surveying a cave and rendering the results as a map
V306
Geology/Hydrology
Bill Elliott for the Texas Speleological Survey. ©TSS, 1995
Informal
24:12 minutes.  
THE CAVERS Pit-bopping in TAG country, set to rock-and-roll music, MTV-style. Includes Cagles's Chasm, Fountain Pit, and Neversink.
V628
Cave Areas
John Donegan, 1993
Amateur
9:34 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape: "Georgia Outdoors" V628. Also available on DVD (D75)
CAVES AND CAVERNS A short review of speleogenesis and a general discussion of caves.
V304
Geology/Hydrology
©National Caves Association, 1985
Professional
12:01 minutes.  
CAVES: CRITTERS, GROUNDWATER & SPELEOLOGY A group of young teens being introduced to caving by their teacher becomes the vehicle (through a lap-top computer, of all devices) for explaining the importance of conserving caves, cave life, and our water supplies.
V205
Conservation
Randall Blackwood, ©1998, USF&WS
Professional
19:50 minutes. Comment:Won Best of Show at the 1999 Video Salon. Comment: Also available on VHS tape (V631)
THE CAVES OF DELAWARE Wry humor in a preview of a fictional NSS convention in Delaware.
V740
Individual Caves
Peter Grant, 1993
Informal
12:05 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "Death Canyon " V740
CAVES OF ISLA DE MONA, PUERTO RICO Video of a slide program by John Mylroie on the caves of Mona Island presented at the 1992 NSS Convention.
V624
Caving Areas
Paul Stevens, 1993
Amateur
19:37 minutes. Comment: Video of a Slide program. Also available on DVD (D71)
THE CAVES OF SINKING VALLEY A documentary on the interconnected caves of a 33 square mile karst drainage basin in Kentucky that culminates in the spectacular underground stream of Short Creek Cave. It represents the volunteer efforts of dozens of cavers and focuses on the ecological threat of the proposed I-66 roadway scheduled to be built through the drainage basin and the haz-ards of disturbing the natural karst drain-age. Initially produced for submission to the KY Transportation Cabinet's envi-ronmental assessment, it was later broad-cast via public access and local cable TV outlets as a public service. This video dramatically demonstrates the impact caver videography can have on karst issues
V641
Caving Areas
by Chris Johns and Larry Simpson. 2005
Amateur
55:00 minutes Comment: Also available on DVD (D12)
THE CAVES OF SOUTHEAST ALASKA An introduction to the geology, hydrology, and biology of the unique caves and karstland near Ketchikan, AK
V630
Caving Areas
Ward Serrill
Amateur
13:19 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D76)
CAVES OF THUNDER The caves, land, and people of Irian Jaya, New Guinea, are featured in this spectacular 6-projector slide show by Gavin Newman (UK), with an original sound track by Rob Gould.
V632
Caving Areas
©Gavin Newman, 1993
Professional
18:15 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D64)
CAVING IN AMERICA: THE HISTORY OF THE NSS The story of how caving evolved in the United States, with emphasis on the NSS since its founding in 1941. Blends historic photographs & film into an entertaining program.
V919
Miscellaneous Programs
Alex Sproul & Paul Stevens, 1991
Professional, non broadcast
21:00 minutes.  
CAVING SAN ANTONIO This segment of the "Scouting Challenge" series, broadcast on the Outdoor Life Channel, follows caver Bill Steele and a group of Explorer Scouts into Robber Baron Cave, beneath the streets of San Antonio.
V754
Individual Caves
TX. ©BSA, 1997.
Professional
23:55 minutes.  
CAVIS AND ROCKHEAD This humorous takeoff on the MTV cartoon feature uses the disgusting duo to point out the need to cave softly. This feature marks the first use of digital editing in an amateur production to create great special effects; it garnered an Honorable Mention in the 1996 Salon. Narrated by Allen Padgett.
V204
Conservation
Fred Baumann, 1995
Amateur
15:10 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D27)
CHINA EXPEDITION Video of an entertaining slide program by Ian Baren on US caver exploration of caves in China's famous karst.
V626
Caving Areas
Paul Stevens, 1993
Amateur
43:00 minutes. Comment: Video of a slide show. Also available on DVD (D73)
CLIFTON CAVE

An almost surreal presentation of a visit to this beautiful Virginia cave. Excellent narration and stunning formation shots. From the dust jacket:

Come journey into the netherworld of Clifton Cave. See the delicate rimstone dams. Marvel at the majesty of large flowstone formations. Admire the delicate white soda straws and rippled travertine, frozen in time. Enjoy the sight of angel wings, illuminated in an ethereal glow. Clifton Cave is a special place - a place of fragile beauty. Although made of rock, these speleothems took thousands of years to form and could easily be broken, never to be seen again. More of the cave remains. A low wet stream passage awaits further exploration. Who knows what may be found? I would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Stuart for allowing us to explore, map, and video in their cave.

V759
Individual Caves
David Socky, Hodag Video Productions, ©1998
Amateur
6:10 minutes.  
A COLLECTION OF CAVE HUMOR VIDEOS Several short humorous videos on cave-related topics starring Doug Bradford & Bob Ehr and produced by members of Diablo Grotto in the early 1980's. While the quality of the media is poor, some of the skits are excellent.
V925
Miscellaneous Programs
Paul Greaves, 1993
Amateur to Informal
15:00? minutes.  
COTTONWOOD CAVE Well-known cave specialist lead a thorough tour of this well-known New Mexico cave, describing its features and Forest Service restoration efforts. Strong conservation message for cavers.
V742
Individual Caves
Jerry Trout and Ransom Turner
Amateur with Professional content
35:15 minutes.  
CRYSTAL BEACH SPRING PROJECT '96 Cave divers explore a freshwater cave system that exits from beneath the ocean floor off Crystal Beach, FL. Good visuals of dive technique and cave biota.
V751
Individual Caves
©Hydro-Geo Env. Research, 1997
Amateur
19:37 minutes.  

The D's      [TOP]

DARK CRYSTALS Caving adventures in Southern Africa with a team of Swiss filmmakers; includes interesting caving fantasies.
V604
Caving Areas
©Spéléfilm, 1987
Professional
51:16 minutes. Also available on DVD (D59)
DESERT VISION Splendid photography of National Parks and Monuments in the West, employing a steadicam for surreal camera movement; includes a beautiful segment in Carlsbad Caverns.
V604
Caving Areas
©Miramar, 1987
Professional
51:20 minutes. Also available on DVD (D81)
DEATH CANYON

Two cavers visit Culverson Creek Cave WV to explore Dread Pool and the Death Canyon Siphon. From the dust jacket:

This video is about our attempts to reach the end of Death Canyon and explore the virgin cave on the other side of the Death Siphon Lake. Death Canyon is a long stream passage in the bowels of 17 mile Culverson Creek Cave System in West Virginia. It is fairly easy caving except for the two long stretches of breakdown collapses, plus the fact that Death Canyon is extremely flood-prone (thus its name!).
Death Canyon illustrates our initial attempt to reach the end of the canyon. We only made it to the First Breakdown before running out of time.

V740
Individual Caves
Dave Socky, Hodag Video Productions ©1993
Amateur
14:10 minutes.

Comment: 1994 NSS Video Salon "Best of Show" award.
Also on this tape "The Caves of Delaware" V740

DEATH CANYON II

Cavers' attempts to penetrate "Death Canyon" and the second siphon in Culverson Creek Cave, WV, are documented. Unlike the original video, which was fictional, this sequel follows real-life attempts to extend this already large cave system.. From the dust jacket:

Death Canyon II documents four more trips and culminates in reaching the end of Death Canyon. Did we make it across Death Siphon Lake? I will leave it up to the viewer to find out!
There is a little bit of caving for everyone in this series: Long echoing stream canyons with rushing water. Life jackets and inflatable turtles, with an underground lake of unknown depth. Breakdown mazes, impassable siphons and scenes of exploration as it happens. Caving at its best, to be enjoyed by everyone.


 

V753
Individual Caves
Dave Socky, Hodag Video Productions ©1997
Amateur
33:35 minutes. Comment: 1997 NSS Video Salon "Best of Show" award
DEPTHS OF WONDER

Episode #103 of the PBS series Anyplace Wild follows hostess Annie Getchell as she joins Arkansas cavers for trips to Copperhead and Fitton caves. Well done, and with all the right messages.

V931
Miscellaneous Programs
©Env. Rec. Group, 1997.
Professional
26:28 minutes.  
DESCENT INTO DARKNESS

Documentary on biological work in the submerged caves of the Bahamas. Features Dr. John "Capt. Karst" Holsinger and Jill Yager, discoverer of a new family of crustaceans called "Remipedia" in 1981.

V401
Biology
 
Professional
52:20 minutes. Also available on DVD (D47)
THE DEVIL'S SINK HOLE

Two young men decide to explore this famous Texas pit-cave by going hand-over-hand down a hemp rope with only flashlights; everything that can go wrong - does. This classic, theatrical film was made in 1950 by Fred Foster.

V750
Individual Caves
Fred Foster, 1950
Professional
52:56 minutes.  
THE DIG

Scenes of Fred Luiszer pursuing several promising digs near Cave of the Winds, CO. After 9 months of digging, Big Alcove Cave was connected to the NE Passage of Cave of the Winds. Also shown is an impressive find of a Pleistocene bone in the cave.

V638
Caving Areas
Gerry Estes ©2000
Amateur
19:30 minutes. Also available on DVD (D61)
DOCTOR DESCENT

An amusing response to the question "Why do we cave?" Presented as a multi-media slide show copied to video.

V934
Miscellaneous Programs
Carl M. Tootle, ©1998
Amateur
12:13 minutes.  
DOWN UNDER TEXAS

This segment of the Made In Texas series gives an overview of caving in the Texas hill country. Includes a strong groundwater conservation message.

V613
Caving Areas
©Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept., 1990.
Professional
28:00 minutes. Also available on DVD (D82)
DROP STORY

An odyssey across Australia as a Swiss film team attempts to follow the path of a drop of water; includes an underground city, climbing, hard-core caving and cave diving.

V301
Geology/Hydrology
©Spéléfilm, 1987
Professional
50:25 minutes. Comments: Also available on DVD (D26)

The E's      [TOP]

 

EASTWATER CAVERN: CAVERS CAVE

This short, British-produced program is intended as a guide to one of the routes through the challenging Eastwater Cavern. It contains a narrated introduction and then subtitles which describe the different sections of the cave the guide is going through. This is definitely a "Caver's Cave"!

V765
Individual Caves
Neil B. Wooldridge, ©2001
Amateur
9:40 minutes. Comment: Also available on CD as C2
END OF ENDLESS

An entertaining narrative filmed in Endless Caverns, VA, as cavers pursue the limits of exploration. Great video of pushing the tight wet leads that make caving so memorable.

V744
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1995
Professional, non broadcast
20:00 minutes.  
EXPLORATION & SURVEY OF BLUE SPRINGS CAVE

Video of a slide program by Bill Walter and Hal Love on the discovery and exploration of over 20 miles of new passage in Blue Springs Cave, TN.

V735
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
30:26 minutes. Comments: Video of a slide program
EXPEDITIONS TO THE EDGE: CAVE FLOOD

Eighth in the Expeditions to the Edge series (NG Channel), the Cave Flood episode presents a reenactment of the 1997 McBrides Cave rescue near Stevenson, AL. Trouble strikes soon after eleven of TAG's finest take on this classic wet pulldown trip after days of rain. The highly realistic portrayal, shot in McBrides with most characters playing themselves, serves as a cautionary tale for anyone challenging the weather gods. An honest depiction of cavers saving cavers, Cave Flood aired on the National Geographic Channel in December 2004.

V771
Individual Caves
Field Producer: Benji von Cramon. GRB Entertainment ©2004.
Professional
46:00 minutes. Comments: This Program won Best of Show in the 2005 NSS Video Salon. Also available on DVD (D11)
EXPLORATION IN THE SIERRA JUAREZ, OAXACA MEXICO

Entertaining video of a slide program by Matt Oliphant on one of the most exciting areas of Mexico caving using slides by Bill Stone and other participants.

V625
Caving Areas
Paul Stevens, 1993
Amateur
23:40 minutes. Comments: Video of a slide program. Also available on DVD (D72)
EXTREME SCIENCE: ACID CAVES

The story of Villa Luz cave - home of the Snottites - in Tabasco, Mexico, follows cavers Louise Hose, Dave Lester, Doug Soroka, and Lynn Kleina, as they investigate this very unusual cave filled with sulfur-eating bacteria and teeming with cave life - and peril.

V763
Individual Caves
Larry Engel, ©2001, Engel Brothers Media.
Professional
26:00 minutes.  
EXTREME SCIENCE: ICE CAVES

Italian scientist Giovanni Badino specializes in studying glacier caves, a unique world that holds promise of revealing the secrets of glaciers and of new organisms that may help fight disease. Follow Giovanni through icy crevasses that can kill the unprepared.

V639
Caving Areas
Larry Engel, ©2001, Engel Brothers Media.
Professional
26:00 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D66)

The F's      [TOP]

FISHER RIDGE CAVE SYSTEM, KY

A tour of this 46+ mile cave system from its historic entrance to the watery base level passage, The Grand Junction.

V715
Individual Caves
Detroit Urban Grotto, 1988
Amateur
25:43 minutes. Comment: Winner of 1989 NSS Photo Salon as best video addition to AV Library
FLYING FOX and FLYING FOXES

Flying Fox: The story of the world's largest bats, narrated by William Conrad.

Flying Foxes:More great photography of these giant bats

V415
Biology
©Time-Life Films, 1978
Professional, non broadcast
22:26 & 15:00 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D80)

The G's      [TOP]

GEORGIA OUTDOORS

Allen Padgett gives a tour of Anderson Spring Cave for this local series.

V628
Cave Areas
 
Professional, informal
18:10 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "The Cavers" V628
GEORGIA OUTDOORS - CAVES

Series host Michael Skinner is taken to several GA caves by TAG cavers Brent Aulenbach and Alan Cressler, Allen Padgett, and Diane Cousineau.

V764
Individual Caves
Keely Walker, ©2001, GA Public TV.
Professional
26:45 minutes.  
THE GREATEST CAVER: FLOYD COLLINS, THROUGH THE EYES OF TEH COLLECTOR

Floyd Collins is touted as being the greatest caver in the world. But this reputation was obtained only after his tragic death, in 1925, due to being trapped in a small and unstable crawlway in Sand Cave, Ky. Because the rescue was widely publicized, it captured the hearts, minds, and hopes of millions of Americans. Not only did the rescue attempt make for a dramatic story, but the fact that thousands of Americans from all over the country showed up to watch, wait, and hope, made Floyd into a great American folk hero.
Because of the drama, the tragedy, and the excitement of the event, people from all walks of life began collecting memorabilia about Floyd Collins. As time went on, the photographs, letters, banners, and other items increased in value, making a these collections quit valuable.
This program is about some of the Floyd Collins collectors, and their collections. In describing their old photographs, postcards, newsreels, and other items, the story of Floyd Collins, and his untimely death, is told.

V947
Miscellaneous Programs
Produced by Dave Socky, Hodag Video Productions ©2002.
Professional, not broadcast quality
31:00 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD

 

The H's      [TOP]

HAN: MYSTERY OF THE LESSE

"Les Grottes du Han" is the most famous and extensive cave system in Belgium, and has fascinated man for centuries. Of its 14 km of passages, only 2.5 km are open to commercial tourists. How you can see the rest, including excellent period reenactments and talks with the original explorers. A true caver's video and a delight to watch.

V758
Individual Caves
©RTBF-ACE-PHL-SGHR, 1992
Professional
49:04 minutes.  
HAWAII - CAVE DIVING IN PARADISE

Beautiful visuals highlight this visit by Florida cave divers to the crystal waters of Hawaii, including an underwater lava cave.

V637
Caving Areas
Mike & Sherry Garman. ©Hydro-Geo, 1999
Professional
16:18 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D77)
HEAVENLY SIGHTS IN HELL BELOW

The episode from the PBS series "Anyplace Wild" follows host Annie Getchell and several well-known NSS cavers on trips to New Mexico's Hell Below and Cottonwood Caves in the Guadalupe Mountains.

V935
Miscellaneous Programs
Darryl Czuchra, ©1998, Env. Rec. Gp.
Professional
26:26 minutes.  
HER FATHER'S WORST NIGHTMARE

Mandy comes home from college to tell her Dad that she's discovered caving, and a new caver boyfriend. She knows that Dad can have some peculiar ideas about things he doesn't know much about, but she hopes her explanations will help him understand. This is the story of Mandy's mission, and what can happen when true understanding really takes place. From the dust cover:

Mandy finally comes home from college to visit with Dad, but she's bringing along a new boyfriend, Jeff, and a new hobby, caving. But before Dad meets Jeff, Mandy decides she better have a one-on-one conversation about the last year of her life, and about caving. It should help before she and Jeff break the news.
Mandy knows that Dad can have some peculiar ideas about things he doesn't know much about, but she hopes with her descriptions, she can get Dad to understand.
This is the story of Mandy's mission, and what can happen when true understanding really takes place.

V942
Miscellaneous Programs
Hodag Video Productions, David Socky ©2001
Professional
23:46 minutes. Comment: Fiction
HIDDEN RIVERS: DYE TRACING IN KARST RESEARCH

This video demonstrates qualitative dye-tracing methods used to delineate groundwater basins as part of a long-term investigation of cavern development in Rockcastle County, Kentucky. Included is a segment shot in the groundwater lab of the Kentucky Division of Water showing use of a spectrofluorophotometer to analyze dye traps.

Produced and narrated by Gary A. O'Dell
Assistant Professor of Geography
Morehead State University, Kentucky

Featuring:
Mary Gratsch
James C. Currens (Kentucky Geological Survey)
Joseph A. Ray (Kentucky Division of Water)
Robert Blair (Kentucky Division of Water)

V307
Geology/Hydrology
Gary A. O'Dell, ©2004, Morehead State University
Amateur
35:00 minutes.  
HIDDEN TREASURES OF THE YUCATAN

Follow a group of cave divers to the premier underwater caves of Mexico's Yucatan. Includes the logistics of getting gear to the often remote sites, and some spectacular underwater footage.

V635
Caving Areas
Mike Garman, ©1998, Hydro-Geo.
Amateur
22:36 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D63)
HISTORY OF VERTICAL CAVING

Cole, Cuddington, Handley, and others describe the evolution of vertical caving in the USA. From the dust cover:

The "History of Vertical Caving" is about the history, the techniques, and the cavers who were involved in the development of vertical caving in the United States. This program features such cavers as Bill Cuddington who has been running the vertical sessions at NSS Conventions for many many years; John Cole, inventor of the Rack; Charlie Gibbs and the Gibbs Ascender, and Jim Gossett who developed the Gossett Box.

Also included are cuts from the Pittsburgh Grotto's 16 mm movies made in 1955, which feature School House Cave. And thanks go to the NSS for the many old slides which contain so much history.

The narration for this program is by Bob Handley.

V922
Miscellaneous Programs
Peter Grant, 1992 and Dave Socky 2000
Amateur
36:36minutes. Comment: Digitally re-masterd by Dave Socky in 2000
HOLLOW GROUND

This is a conservation video which covers the problems of water pollution in caves and karst areas. The program starts with a short discussion on the formation of caves. It then presents the many sources of water pollution involving caves and karst areas, and includes a number of solutions. This is an excellent educational resource on the subject of conservation and water pollution.

V208
Conservation
Produced by Patrick Jackson & Al Ogden ©2001, TDEC
Professional, Non broadcast
15:42 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D29)
HOWE CAVERNS, NY

A narrative of the discovery and development of the nation's oldest show cave and other regional attractions near the site of the 1991 NSS convention.

V724
Individual Caves
©Postcard Videos, 1988
Professional
25:10 minutes.  
HUAUTLA EXPEDITIONS: HIGH-TECH CAVING

Video of a slide presentation by Bill Stone of the exciting story of a ten-year project that explored this Mexican cave, finding over 33 miles of passage and pushing it to a depth of over 4,400 feet.

V729
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1991
Amateur
34:17 minutes. Comment: Video of a slide program
HUAUTLA: THE MEXICAN CAVE

See original exploration as it happens, as American cavers push Sistéma Huautla to a world depth record. Includes scenes of Anthodite Hall, heavy water in the Gorge, Camp III and beyond.

V746
Individual Caves
Jay Arnold. ©Deepest Cave Co., 1995.
Professional
35:00 minutes. Comment: Merit Award in the 1996 Video Salon. Also available on DVD (D136)

The I's      [TOP]

IMPACT OF FEDERAL CAVE RESOURCES PROTECTION ACT ON LAVA TUBE MANAGEMENT

Video of a slide program by Jim Nieland on the inventory, evaluation, and management of publicly owned lava tubes in the western United States, and the impact of the Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1988.

V202
Conservation
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
24:00 minutes. Comment: Video of a slide program
IN THE CELLARS OF THE WORLD

Shot by Russell Neville in 1927 using magnesium flares, this historic film includes scenes in Mammoth, Carlsbad, Salts Cave and others. B&W, musical background added.

V610
Caving Areas
1987
Informal
23:00 minutes. Also available on DVD (D83)
INTO THE GROUND.... INTO THE WATER

The dangers posed by groundwater pollution resulting from sinkhole dumping are discussed by cavers and local experts.

V305
Geology/Hydrology
©VA Tech Relations, 1990
Professional
14:48 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD

The J's      [TOP]

JACKSON BLUE

Beautiful photography of cave diving in Jackson County, Florida with scenes of Florida Caverns State Park. Strong conservation message.

V622
Caving Areas
©Charles Bickelman 1992
Professional
18:30 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D68)
THE JEWELS OF THE DARK

Philippe Axell and a video team set out to document Europe's finest caves on high-definition video - particularly those caves and passages which are never accessible except on very special occasions. A unique opportunity to visit the best of the best. Exquisite photography!

V633
Caving Areas
©Axell Comm., 1993
Professional
50:17 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D78)
JOURNEY INTO AMAZING CAVES

DESCEND INTO WORLDS WITH NO LIGHT, NO AIR, AND NO ROOM FOR ERROR
Journey Into Amazing Caves is a visceral, suspenseful expedition with a new breed of scientists who boldly explore places once thought off-limits to human presence, let alone IMAX cameras. Join Dr. Hazel Barton and Nancy Aulenbach as they travel to unique and forbidding ice caves in Greenland, underwater caves in the Yucatan, terrestrial caves in the Grand Canyon and other spectacular locations. You will wriggle through tiny, twisting passages, swim through flooded underground vaults, drop into gleaming blue labyrinths of ice, and enter a world so extreme the microscopic creatures who live there are called extremophiles. For those compelled to push their limits in the world's most hostile environments, the risk of fatal danger and thrill of new discovery are the everyday factors that make cave exploration such an awe-inspiring experience.

V945
Miscellaneous Programs
Produced by Greg MacGillivray, Alec Lrimore,and Steve Judson. 2001
Professional
40 minutes Comment: Also available on DVD
JOURNEY INTO DARKNESS [Expedition in die Finsternis]

Winner of Best of Show in the 1996 Video Salon, this German documentary by Bernhard Kliebhan chronicles the life of E. A. Martel, whose exploits in the late nineteenth century earned him the title of "Father of Modern Speleology." Rare old photos and film, reenactments, and modern caving scenes are seamlessly blended to create an impressive tribute.

V928
Miscellaneous Programs
©Hessischer Rundfunk, 1994
Professional
58:00 minutes. Comment: Winner of Best of Show in the 1996 Video Salon
JOURNEY INTO THE EARTH

This film presents the adventures of a team of speleologists who have set out to capture images that reveal to the general public the incredible forms and colors of the subterranean world. Exquisite scenes from the lava tubes of Lanzarote (Canary Islands), the caves of Postonja (Slovenia), the sunken depths of Fontaine de Vaucluse in France, and the crystal palaces of Cigalere in the Pyrenees.

V636
Caving Areas
©Byzance Film, 1999
Professional
50:56 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D62)
JUST KIDDIN' AROUND - CAVES

Go on a restoration trip to Lone Hill Onyx Cave (MO) with Bill Elliott and some middle school kids; join a CRF survey trip to Powder Mill Creek Cave; go mist-netting for bats with DNR biologists; learn how to build a bat house; and see a virtual cave website. This is a great program for kids, with a strong, positive message.

V943
Miscellaneous Programs
Kipp Woods, ©2000, MO Dept. of Conservation
Professional
27:00 minutes.  

The K's      [TOP]

KAUMANA LAVA TUBE, HAWAII

Follow cavers in this entertaining and educational moving-image video as they explore a lava tube near Hilo. Bruce Rogers explains the features along the way. Includes scenes of active lava flows.

V731
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1991
Professional, non broadcast
27:00 minutes.  
KOREAN CAVING DOCUMENTARY

A professional documentary on caving in Korea. Although the narration is in Korean, the video is easy to follow and includes many spectacular scenes, including the birth of a baby bat. Well worth watching!

V926
Miscellaneous Programs
 
Professional, non broadcast
89:00 minutes. Comment: narration is in Korean

The L's      [TOP]

LAVA TUBES IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM

Video of a fascinating slide presentation by planetary geologist Ron Greeley from Arizona State University on the volcanism which recent spacecraft have observed on various planets and their satellites.

V616
Caving Areas
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
32:51 minutes. Comment: Video of a slide show. Also on DVD (D85)
LAVA TUBES IN EL MALPAIS, NM

Video of a fast-paced slide program by Bruce Rogers on the lava tubes in El Malpais National Monument.

V618
Caving Areas
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
17:46 minutes. Comment: Video of a slide show. Also on DVD (D84)
LE TROU DU DIABLE

The true story of the discovery and exploration of Boischatel Cave, Quebec, reenacted by the explorers. Medal winner in the 1992 NSS Salon. Dialogue in French, but the story is quite easy to follow.

V732
Individual Caves
1992
Professional
17:46 minutes. Comment: Dialogue in French. Medal winner in the 1992 NSS Salon.
LECHUGUILLA CAVE: THE HIDDEN GIANT (CAVER'S VERSION)

A video of this famous cave with its fabulous formations emphasizing its "wilderness" potential. The main program is about 25 mintues long. The extended section includes in-depth interviews with the explorers and plenty of outtakes and makes this video a full 68 mintues long.

V720
Individual Caves
©Denver Museum of Natural History, 1989
Professional
68:03 minutes. Comment: Also on DVD (D24)
LEHMAN CAVES, NV

Excellent photography of the impressive formations in this Nevada cave, produced by the Great Basin Natural History Assoc. and the National park Service.

V723
Individual Caves
©Finlay-Holiday Film Corp., 1989
Professional
25:44 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "TIMPANOGOS CAVE, UT" V723
LIGHTING THE DARKNESS

A short made for TV magazine type program which shows how still cave photography is accomplished.

V951
Miscellaneous Programs
Vincent McKay, ©2004, WNPT
Professional
7:12 minutes.  
LIVING ON KARST

Living On Karst introduces the general public to the basics of karst, how it functions and what makes it so sensitive to land use. The history of Hidden River Cave is presented as the poster child of polluted caves, whose ultimate restoration in modern times points at a hopeful future for raising consciousness about the value of providing good stewardship. David Foster, founder and director of ACCA shares personal thoughts about the tangible and intangible value of caves to humans and to life itself.

V209
Conservation
Benjamin von Cramon Procuctions©2002
Professional
18:00 minutes. Comment: Also on DVD (D33)
LOCUST CREEK II

Members of the Northeast Sump Divers (NEST) document their efforts in exploring Locust Creek Cave (WV) past three underwater sumps to discover over 3 miles of cave.

V762
Individual Caves
Joe Kaffl ©2000
Amateur
19:58 minutes.  

The M's      [TOP]

THE MACOCHA ABYSS MYSTERY

The story of 40 years of exploration in a major Czechoslovakian cave system. B&W, narrated in Czech with German subtitles, but very "watchable."

V711
Individual Caves
©Kabel Publishers, 1987
Professional
74:40 minutes. Comment: narrated in Czech with German subtitles
MAMMOTH CAVE, KY

A commercial video on Mammoth Cave National Park.

V713
Individual Caves
©Finlay-Holiday, 1987
Professional
29:05 minutes. Comment: narrated in Czech with German subtitles
MANAGING CAVES - A Special Challenge

A Special Challenge. Caves are more popular for recreation than ever! And their ties to the surface world is increasingly more important. Because of this, proper cave management has become critical. This BLM video points out (very well) the importance of the cave resource and the need for good stewardship by federal agencies under the provisions of the Federal Cave Resource Protection Act.

V207
Conservation
Bob Kyle & Randy Hayes, NARSC Resource, Video Production, for the New Mexico Bureau of Land Management (BLM), ©1995
Professional
11:43 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD
MERKLE CAVE

In 1937, famed entomologist Dr. Charles Mohr did some scientific envestigations in this small but beautiful eastern Pennsylvania cave, and a striking photograph appeared in Life Magazine. But shortly thereafter, the cave entrance was bulldozed by the owner. This video documents the efforts of a group of PA cavers to locate, reopen and explore Merkle Cave.

V770
Individual Caves
Produced by William Wentz, ©2001
Amateur
21:32 minutes. Comment:
MERLIN'S BATS

Merlin Tuttle studying Mexican Freetail bats in Bracken Cave, Texas. Excellent bat-flight footage.

V414b
Biology
©NGS
Professional
8:30 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "THE BAT THAT CRACKED THE FROG CODE", V414. Also on DVD (D53)
MEGADOLINES

Dramatic adventures highlight early explorations in Papua New Guinea by a Swiss/French team, including 360- meter deep sinkholes and kayaking into a giant resurgence.

V603
Caving Areas
©Spéléfilm, 1987
Professional
55:15 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD
THE MOST DANGEROUS SCIENCE

Cave divers attempt to follow the waters of the Nahoch Nah Chich Cave System, deep in the Yucatan peninsula, to their eventual outlet in the Gulf of Mexico. Unprecedented footage shot and produced by Wes Skiles for The New Explorers TV series, 1995. Received a Merit Award at the 1996 Video Salon.

V749
Individual Caves
©Karst Prod., 1995
Professional
55:50 minutes. Comment: Received a Merit Award at the 1996 Video Salon.
MYSTERIES OF THE CAVERNS An introduction to caves and caving, created as a special presentation by a Cincinnati TV station. Strong influence by Ohio cavers is evident in its clear messages. And its graphics of cavern genesis are first-rate. A good tutorial for the uninitiated
V113
Safety & Techniques
Gary Wuerdeman, ©2001, WKRC-TV
Professional
24:20 minutes.  
MYSTERIES UNDERGROUND An unparalleled caving documentary, with great footage of Lechuguilla Cave shot by Sid Perou, the story of Floyd Collins, pit-bopping with the Huntsville Grotto, the C-3 Expedition, and a retelling of the famous Mammoth-Flint Ridge connection.
V924
Miscellaneous Programs
©NGS, 1992
Professional
55:00 minutes.  
MYSTERIOUS LIFE OF CAVES Deep in the heart of the Guadalupe Mountains in southern New Mexico, rock-eating microbes are at work. But their appetite is dainty compared to their voracious hunger millions of years ago, when they carved some of the most impressive caves in the world. "Mysterious Life of Caves" reports on a revolutionary theory of cave formation that has startling implications for the development of life on Earth and on other planets.

NOVA's team descends through miles of twisting, plunging caverns, including some of the most exotic in the world that are off limits to all except researchers. NOVA was given special permission to film in these fragile, often perilous places, which have turned the science of speleology on its head.

For all its evident risks, speleology is a science in which women are especially prominent, including several featured in this program: microbiologist and Mars specialist Penny Boston, geologist Carol Hill, biologist Diana Northup, and geologist Louise Hose, among others.

"The first couple of times I went on trips [to Lechuguilla Cave], I kept thinking, all I have to do is live long enough to get out and then I never have to come back," admits Boston. "[But then] the beauties of the cave ...    really soaked into my soul." And so did the science. The film crew's first stop is Lechuguilla, along with Carlsbad Caverns, both in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico. Both are home to the most spectacular and puzzling gypsum formations ever found.

Traditional theories of cave formation could not explain how these vast subterranean caverns with massive gypsum deposits were formed. Most limestone caves are dissolved by flowing water that has absorbed carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and become slightly acidic. However, gypsum is soluble in water and should have been washed away at Carlsbad and Lechuguilla. Furthermore, there is no sign that flowing water ever entered or exited the caves.

Whatever process created Carlsbad and Lechuguilla is largely dormant now. So the team visits a more active and dangerous cavern: Cueva de Villa Luz in Mexico, which emits the toxic, rotten-egg smell of hydrogen sulfide from its entrance. Inside, explorers must wear respirators and carry poison-gas monitors to protect themselves from the hydrogen sulfide that reacts with water in the cave to form caustic sulfuric acid. Deep within, they discover "snottites," mucous-like stalactites of sulfur-eating bacteria that also drip sulfuric acid. Oddly enough, the noxious environment teems with microbes, spiders, insects, crabs, and fish -- all thriving in complete darkness.

As strange as it may seem, sulfuric acid produced by microbial life is the cause of about five percent of all limestone caves, including Cueva de Villa Luz, Carlsbad, and Lechuguilla. Sulfuric acid not only dissolves limestone, it leaves a distinctive chemical residue: gypsum. This process, which is ongoing now in Cueva de Villa Luz, was completed millions of years ago in Carlsbad and Lechuguilla, where microbial activity continues today at a very slow pace.

Sulfuric acid is produced not just by snottites but also deep underground in oil deposits. Microbes consume oil and release hydrogen sulfide gas, which rises through rock fissures and combines with groundwater to produce sulfuric acid.

To scientists, the biggest surprise is that this Earth-transforming process is connected to life -- especially life where no one expected to find it, since caves were long considered virtually sterile environments. Dubbed "extremophiles," these newfound organisms, living beyond the margin of what was considered possible, are turning up in more and more environments, from hot springs at Yellowstone National Park to volcanic vents at the ocean bottom.

Some scientists believe these bacteria descend directly from the earliest life forms that emerged on Earth some 3.5 billion years ago. They may even be our best guess of what life is like on other planets -- buried beneath the surface of Mars, floating in the oceans of Jupiter's moon Europa, and otherwise thriving in extreme conditions throughout the cosmos.

V948
Miscellaneous Programs
NOVA, Park Foundation, 2002
Professional - 60:00 minutes
60:00 minutes.  
THE MYSTERY OF RIVER RISE This is a story about discovering the source of an underground river in Florida, with cave diving as the main means of discovery.
V768
Individual Caves
Michael & Sandra Boucher, ©2003 Mudbug
Amateur
13:06 minutes.  

 

The N's      [TOP]

NAHOCH NAY CHICH, MEXICO Tour this underwater cave through excellent video by Randy Lathrop.
V721
Individual Caves
©Get Wet Video, 1989
Professional
18:08 minutes.  
NASHVILLE GROTTO - 50 YEARS OF CAVING This is an excellent, and very professional video that cronicles 50 years of caving with the Nashville Grotto. This video includes many great interviews with some very well know cavers. A number of the more memoriable projects of the Nashville Grotto are included, plus a description of some of the more recent conservation work they have been involved in.
V950
Miscellaneous Programs
Jody Bailey, ©2003
Professional
60:10 minutes. Comment: Merit award at the 2004 Video Salon
NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS, TX NSS cavers discovered and developed this outstanding tourist attraction near San Antonio.
V741
Individual Caves
©NBC
Professional
16:20 minutes.  
NSS 60th ANNIVERSARY SLIDE SHOW A video of a six projector multi image slide show originally presented at the 2001 NSS Convention in Mt Vernon, Kentucky, July 24th 2001. This is a great program which presents 6 decades of caving in the NSS along with music to match each decade.
V944
Miscellaneous Programs
Colin Gatland, 2001
Professional
12:00 minutes. Comments: video of a six projector multi image slide show
NSS CONVENTION, 1989, SEWANEE, TN Highlights of most of the convention events and many TAG caving scenes.
V914
Miscellaneous Programs
Peter Grant, 1990
Amateur
58:00 minutes.  
NSS CONVENTION 2000 PREVIEW This convention 'teaser' is not your typical drab review of facilities and programs; it has real pzazz! It boasts an original song and an outstanding montage of caving action shots, as well as a tongue-in-cheek welcome to West Virginia. It was enthusiastically received at the 1999 Convention; now you can play it at home.
V932
Miscellaneous Programs
Produced by David Socky, ©1999, NSS
Amateur
15:00 minutes.  
NSS PHOTO SALON 1992 73 of the best slides from the 1992 Photo Salon with a musical background.
V923
Miscellaneous Programs
Peter Grant, 1992
Amateur
21:00 minutes.  

The O's      [TOP]

OLAA LAVA TUBE, HAWAII Video incorporating moving images and slides of one of the world's longest lava tubes. Presented by Dave Bunnell
V734
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
29:45 minutes. Comments: Includes some slides
THE ORGAN CAVE SYSTEM An excellent video follows cavers as they plunge deep into this 38-mile WV cave, over the Bowen Drop to the sump of Big Canyon. NSS Salon Merit Award winner - very entertaining and fast-paced.
V738
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1994
Professional, non broadcast
29:45 minutes. Comment: 1994 NSS Salon Merit Award winner
ORGAN CAVE: TRAILSIDE This segment from the PBS series pairs host John Viehman with cavers Dave Culver and Bill Jones for an introduction to caving in West Virginia.
V739
Individual Caves
©New Media, Inc., 1993
Professional
28:00 minutes.  

The P's      [TOP]

PARADISE PASSAGE Travel with Greg Small to a dig. A long dig, but one that eventually opened up. The cavers discovered thousands of feet of virgin passage, including Paradise Passage, which is heavily decorated with all forms of formations. From huge stalagmites and stalagtites to small delicate white helectites. For the cavers, this was the discovery of a lifetime.
V766
Individual Caves
Charles Breite, 2003
Amateur
56:40 minutes. Comments: Honorable Mention in 2003 NSS Video Salon
PITS, CRATERS, AND LAVA TUBES A Swiss film team visits the lava caves of Hawaii, even rappelling into a smoldering crater.
V602
Caving Areas
©Spéléfilm, 1987
Professional
50:05 minutes. Comment: Also on DVD (D86)
PLACES FOUND :CATHEDRAL CAVERNS This is a very professional video about Cathedral Caverns in Georgia. It provides a very complete history of this commercial cave and contains great shots of this beautiful cave.
V769
Individual Caves
Sandra Cekot, ©2002 Ambassador Video
Professional
25:45 minutes.  
POWIE, ALASKA Description of the caves on Prince of Wales Island and the POWIE expeditions by Dave Klinger using slides.
V614
Caving Areas
Paul Stevens, 1991
Amateur
28:00 minutes. Comments: Video of a slide show. Also on DVD (D87)

 

The R's      [TOP]

RESCUE AT ROWLAND'S CAVE An account of the rescue by divers of 4 cavers trapped by rising water in this Arkansas cave. Originally on 16mm film. B&W.
V901
Miscellaneous Programs
SSA, 1965
Amateur
24:35 minutes. Comments: Video of a slide show
A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE In 1954 a limestone quarry in the Mendip Hills broke into an unknown cave system filled with superb stalactite formations. This cave was the first of many revealed by the advancing rock face including the exquisite Balch's Cave. But "the quarry giveth, the quarry taketh away".

This film is a dramatized depiction of real events based on the recollections of two of the original explorers, Brian Prewer and Bob Whitaker.

It is a story about caves and those who are drawn to explore them. It is a story about friendship, about discovery and destruction. It is a story that poses a fundamental question. How do we place a value on the world around us?

V952
Safety & Techniques
Andy Sparrow, ©2003, Third Eye Films
Professional
59:28 minutes. Comment: BEST OF SHOW at 2004 NSS Video Salon. Also on DVD (D139a)
ROPE RESCUE - OVERVIEW Part 1 of 4-part series. Covers history of rope rescue and overview of techniques.
V104
Safety & Techniques
©Thorne Group Inc, 1989
Professional
65:00 minutes. Comment:
ROPE RESCUE - ROPE & EQUIPMENT Part 2 of 4-part series. Covers physics of rope use, rope care and use, and carabiners.
V105
Safety & Techniques
©Thorne Group Inc, 1989
Professional
65:00 minutes. Comment:
ROPE RESCUE - OVERVIEW Part 1 of 4-part series. Covers history of rope rescue and overview of techniques.
V104
Safety & Techniques
©Thorne Group Inc, 1989
Professional
65:00 minutes. Comment:

ROPE RESCUE - KNOTCRAFT Part 3 of 4-part series. Step by step instructions for tying many knots, bends, and hitches.
V106
Safety & Techniques
©Thorne Group Inc, 1989
Professional
55:00 minutes. Comment:
ROPE RESCUE - BELAYING Part 4 of 4-part series. Step by step instructions for how to provide a friction safety for a person in an exposed position.
V107
Safety & Techniques
©Thorne Group Inc, 1990
Professional
55:00 minutes. Comment:

The S's      [TOP]

SALT SPRING This spring has long been known to geologists, but has only recently been discovered by cave divers, who promptly discover a deep pit and a huge underwater cavern.
V761
Individual Caves
Mike & Sherry Garman. ©Hydro-Geo, 1999
Professional
15:00 minutes.  
A SCOUTING APPROACH TO WILD CAVES The NSS has long wished it had a good video introduction to caving. Well, the Scouts have beaten them to it! This very thorough production looks at everything from caving equipment and techniques, to cavern genesis, to vertical work and self-rescue. And it's all neatly packaged into 10-minute chapters. This program is very professional and won a Merit Award at the 1999 Video Salon.
V112
Safety & Techniques
Terry Wall, ©1998, Troop 381, Shawnee Mission, KS
Professional
102:41 minutes. Comment: won a Merit Award at the 1999 Video Salon. Also on DVD (D23)
SEARCHING FOR CHRISTMAS A humorous fast-paced narrative, filmed in Paxtons Cave, VA, follows cavers in search of the perfect picture. Great video and an entertaining story.
V743
Individual Caves
Paul Stevens, 1994
Professional, non broadcast
37:00 minutes.  
SECRETS OF LIMESTONE GROUNDWATER A short documentary by Frank Binney educates on the sources of groundwater pollution.
V303
Geology/Hydrology
©Indiana University, 1987
Professional
13:23 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D28)
SECRETS OF THE ANCIENT MAYA CEÑOTE Divers penetrate a Mexican cave, now underwater, to preserve bone samples and charcoal from Mayan era.
V627
Caving Areas
©Sea Impressions.
Professional
31:26 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D74)
SILENT SPLENDOR AND EXTENSION Story of the discovery of new passage in Cave of the Winds, CO. The Extension is outtakes from the production and extended discussion with cavers.
V710
Individual Caves
©Denver Museum of Natural History, 1986
Professional
66:54 minutes.  
SINGLE ROPE ASCENDING SYSTEMS, AN INTRODUCTION Whether one does vertical caving just because they enjoy going up and down a rope, or because pits and climbs always get in the way of exploring a cave (or both), one must learn the proper techniques in order to vertical cave in a safe and efficient manner.

When caving, the most common feature encountered that requires knowledge of vertical techniques is: “the pit”. Getting down is usually pretty easy (but it does require a fair amount of knowledge in order to do it safely). But if one goes down, it is usually necessary to get back up.

Getting back up the rope is the main subject of this video. This program is intended to be an introduction to the different techniques and rigs that are used around the world to ascend a rope.

The program will start out with how to set up a climbing rope for training with a heavy emphasis on safety. Then we will cover the workings of different climbing systems such as the Frog system, knots, the rope walker and others. Important aspects of each system will be described, including how to use them in a safe and efficient manner.

V114
Safety and Techniques
©David Socky - Hodag Video Productions, 2003
Professional
14:00 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D5)
SOLO Within the earth, within the mind - a journey of discovery and obsession. What drives a person to risk their life deep underground, and alone, in an unexplored cave? Solo explores the innermost thoughts and fears of a lone caver as he ventures into uncharted caverns, culminating in a tense and dramatic struggle for survival.
V941
Miscellaneous Programs
Andy Sparrow. ©Third Eye Films, 1998
Professional
32:05 minutes. Comment: Fiction, Medal winner 1999 NSS Video Salon. Also on DVD (D139b)
THE SOUNDS OF THE SILENCE This video was produced by Cuban Speleological Society. The program is a video montage of three very beautiful Cuban commercial and wild Caves. There is no narration, but the program is set to music. This video is definitely worth watching. The caves are unique and very beautiful, and the camera work is very well done.
V640
Caving Areas
Video Atenas ©2002
Amateur
25:10 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D79)
SP CAVE Forest Service efforts to protect and preserve this spectacular Arizona cave are the focus of this documentary. Unique monitoring and restoration techniques are highlighted.
V752
Individual Caves
©Fred Baumann, 1997
Amateur
18:03 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "Underground Symphony" V752
SPÉLÉOLOGIE: ADVENTURE MODERNE An introduction to organized caving, European style; stresses safety and conservation while demonstrating good techniques in a variety of caving situations.
V101
Safety & Techniques
©Spéléfilm, 1987
Professional
56:21 minutes.  
SPELE-ICE This made-for-TV film by Swiss producer Gerald Fávre explores ice-filled caves in the high Alps, glacier caves, and geothermal caves in Iceland.
V601
Caving Areas
©Spéléfilm, 1987
Professional
50:05 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD
THE SPELUNKER A classic early B/W film directed by Roger Brucker which provides a fascinating view of how caving has changed over the years...and how much remains the same.
V917
Miscellaneous Programs
Bill Hulstrunk, 1951
Amateur
22:25 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D121)
SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION Stunning videography by Tom Zannes highlights this tour of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, including off-trail portions of Carlsbad, Slaughter Canyon Cave, Spider Cave, and of course, Lechuguilla. Good history of the area and unique cavern genesis.
V629
Caving Areas
©CCGMA, 1993
Professional
58:00 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D70)
STONEWALLED ON FISHT Great stories and caving in the Russian Fisht mountains in Stonewalled cave. Other caves are featured. This is a recounting of a 1995 British expedition. As said on their web site, "The aims of the expedition were to find new caves, enlarge the existing ones and to get home alive." To that end, there is some excellent videography on a 3 day snow storm which destroyed most of their tents.
V767
Individual Caves
Tony Cook, ©2001
Professional
44:51 minutes. Comment: Won an Honorable Mention at the 2003 NSS Video Salon.
THE STORY OF FLOYD COLLINS The tragic story of the death of this infamous cave explorer in Sand Cave, KY, as told through two reenactments made for NBC-TV; "Rescue" aired in 1951 on Philco Playhouse, and "Crisis at Sand Cave" aired in 1958 on Robert Montgomery Presents. At the end of "Rescue" there are brief appearances by Homer Collins (Floyd's brother) and Skeets Miller, the cub reporter who tried to comfort Floyd during his long ordeal. These programs are an important historical record of this tragedy.
V936
Caving Areas
1951 & 1958
Professional
115:39 minutes.  
SULPHUR SPRINGS Sulphur Springs used to be a swimming hole and tourist attraction, but diversion of stormwater by the city of Tampa into nearby Orchid Springs, has caused the aquifer - which is a primary drinking water source, to become contaminated. Cave scientists and divers are now exploring the aquifer and sampling the water in an effort to remediate the situation.
V760
Individual Caves
Mike & Sherry Garman. ©Hydro-Geo, 1999
Professional
17:42 minutes.  

The T's      [TOP]

TAG 2003 Find out what a Fall TAG Cave-in is all about. Check out the people, vendors, and activities in the fast paced video about TAG 2003
V949
Miscellaneous Programs
Jody Bailey, ©2003
Amateur
9:14 minutes.  
TAG - YOU'RE IT! A wonderful retrospective on T.A.G., its caves and cavers, produced by Benjy von Cramon as the program for the 1998 NSS Convention Banquet. Full of history, characters, and yarns; includes `fantastic' pit-bopping and even exploration of virgin cave. A great grotto program!
V634
Caving Areas
Benjy von Cramon, ©NSS/BVC, 1998
Professional
52:05 minutes. Also on DVD (D22)
TAKE NOTHING BUT PICTURES A group of Indiana cavers shows how to find adventure and fun, Hoosier style, while respecting nature's handiwork.
V929
Miscellaneous Programs
Billy Pea, 1998
Amateur
27:44 minutes.  
TEXAS UNDERGROUND This segment from Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks to educate the public on the importance of caves and the need to protect them. Features NSS cave biologist Dr. Bill Elliott.
V631
Caving Areas
Texas Parks & Wildlife
Professional, non broadcast
11:30 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D65)
TIMPANOGOS CAVE, UT A good chronology of the 1887 discovery and subsequent development of this Utah cave, now a National Monument. Good historical photographs.
V723
Individual Caves
©JTV Prod., 1988
Professional
22:24 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "LEHMAN CAVES, NV" V723

The U's      [TOP]

UNDERGROUND SYMPHONY This whimsical piece demon-strates the magic that digital editing and animation have brought to amateur video. Cave formations come to life, playing classical accompaniment to dancing hodags and gremlins.
V752
Individual Caves
©Fred Baumann, 1997
Amateur
10:06 minutes. Comment: Also on this tape "SP Cave " V752
UNDERSTANDING: CAVES This is a very professional program on caving produced for the Discovery Channel. It was aired on TV in May 2002. It presents a number of aspects of caving - from safety considerations when wild caving, to conservation issues with wild and commercial caves to primitive Native Americans in Mammoth Cave and cave diving in Florida.
V946
Miscellaneous Programs
Produced by Paul Gasek ©2000, Discovery
Professional
50:00 minutes. Comment: Broadcast on the Discovery Channel in May 2002

 

The V's      [TOP]

VAMPIRE: NOT AS BAT AS YOU THINK An excellent study of these over-dramatized creatures shows them to be relatively innocuous and fascinating. Shown on "The Wild Side" on PBS, 1979.
V411
Biology
PBS, 1979
Professional, non broadcast
11:30 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD (D50)
VENDORS ROW

Every caver's second favorite place to be! Vendors and cavers are lampooned, with a great original song by Marian & Dan McConnell. Shot at caving events by Dave Socky. A lot of laughs! From the dust cover:

Go to any large caving function: OTR, NSS Convention, Sera Cave Carnival, TAG Fall Cave-In, etc., and you will find a Vendors' Row; a gathering of several to many Speleo-vendors, ready to sell you every manner and type of cave-related gear. This entertaining video (with original music from the magic of Dan & Marian McConnell) exhibits the cavers' love affair with the vendors and their wares and shows how great it can be to shop on Vendors Row.
Find out about brain buckets, lighting systems, vertical gear, cave books and batdananas. Read some sassy T-shirts, too. Find out why cavers always seem to be broke and what really makes them cry. Just remember the credo of Vendor's Row: Better Caving Through Currency!

V938
Miscellaneous Programs
David Socky, ©Hodag Video Productions, 1999
Professional
9:03 minutes.  
VOICES OF THE CAVE, KY Reenactment of the history and usage of Mammoth Cave.
V717
Individual Caves
©Earthrise Production for NPS
Professional
30:08 minutes.  
VULCANO-SPELEOLOGY SYMPOSIUM, HAWAII An educational and entertaining moving-image program on the lava tubes of the Big Island from its rain forests to high on Mauna Loa.
V615
Caving Areas
Paul Stevens, 1992
Amateur
63:50 minutes. Comment: Also available on DVD

The W's      [TOP]

THE WAKULLA SPRINGS PROJECT View the high-tech exploration of Wakulla Springs (FL) by cave divers in this professional video. Bill Stone, 1989. A slide program on the project is available as S743.
V722
Individual Caves
Bill Stone, 1989
Professional
52:42 minutes. Comment: Slide program - see S734
WATER'S JOURNEY: HIDDEN RIVERS OF FLORIDA

When people think about cave diving, they usually cringe with nightmarish visions of claustrophobic blackness. They imagine a sport for an elite clan of tough, macho adrenaline junkies.

But what few people appreciate, is the dynamic structure of underwater caves and what they mean to people on the surface. Underwater caves by their very nature are transport mechanisms for groundwater - and that's where most people get the water they drink.

Today's underwater cave explorer practices what is arguably the world's most dangerous science - mapping the labyrinth to bring home information for scientific enlightenment. Those explorers are less likely to be young and foolish, and more likely to be seasoned explorers with a penchant for staying composed in situations that would leave others gasping for breath.

The stygian world beneath our feet is an abstract one for most people to visualize. When asked where their drinking water comes from, most would reply, "the faucet." But a new technology developed by radio-magnetics expert Brian Pease, is finally allowing people to see the active relationship between cave systems and society's activities above. This technology is being highlighted as a key component of a new adventure documentary Water's Journey - Hidden Rivers of Florida.

Although the film was shot in Florida, the lessons learned in Water's Journey apply to all people. Water's Journey brings to light an impending international crisis.

V953
Caving Areas
Jill Heinerth, ©2003 Karst Productions
Professional
56:54 minutes. Comment: Winner of Best of Show at the 2003 NSS Video Salon
WAYNE'S WORLD SINK CAVE SYSTEM Follow the explorers as they discover a new karst window linking several known underwater Florida caves.
V755
Individual Caves
©Hydro-Geo, 1997
Amateur
12:44 minutes.  
WE'RE CAVERS AND WE'RE RESCUERS

It's a caving music video! This tongue-in-cheek production is set to an original ballad and spoofs the rescue community by showing how not to rescue a caver. Lots of fun! From the dust cover:

"We're Cavers and We're Rescuers" is a humorous video about cave rescues which is based on the lyrics of Dan McConnell's song of the same name. It demonstrates some of the more important aspects and techniques of cave rescue, but what it does best is to graphically show what cavers (rescuers and rescuees) should not do! It's a brand new paradigm.
The methods of cave rescue are enhanced in this video by visually enacting the lyrics of the 1997 NSS award winning ballad. In other words, this is a cavers' Music Video in the style of the well known MTV Music Videos.
In this video you will see how not to get a patient through low, wet passages. You will see what happens when you fake an injury. You will learn about the 'turtle crawl', tight passage rescues, and why you shouldn't drink cave water. You will learn important aspects of rigging and rope work on rescues. But most important of all, you will be entertained by "We're Cavers and We're Rescuers" music video!

V930
Miscellaneous Programs
David Socky, ©Hodag Video Productions, 1997
Amateur
8:35 minutes.  
WIND CAVE: THE WORLD BELOW A very entertaining professional video developed by the NSS. Follows a trip to the farthest reaches of one of the world's longest caves. Includes special supplement on how the video was made.
V728
Individual Caves
John Scheltens & Paul Stevens, et al. ©NSS, 1990.
Professional
32:58+20:01 minutes.  
WONDERS FROM UNDER THE GROUND

Billed as a sing-along video for children, this short production features dancing bats, salamanders and formations and a conservation message that reaches kids, set to an original song by Marian McConnell. From the dust cover:

This is a fun 'sing along' video for kids of all ages (and adults too!). Learn about caves and all of the Wonders that can be found underground. Sing along about the little bats, the formations, and the salamanders that live in the special and unique world under the ground.
The song, "Wonders From Under the Ground" is written and composed by Marian McConnell. It was also entered in the 1999 National Speleological Society Cave Ballad Contest
.

V933
Miscellaneous Programs
David Socky, ©1999, Hodag Video Productions
Amateur
3:50 minutes.  
THE WORLD WITHIN A professional film providing an excellent introduction to caving for the non-caver
V103
Safety & Techniques
Produced by John Slavin & Paul Crawford, ©Osiris Productions
Professional
28:00 minutes. Comment: