Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a caving grotto?
A: A caving grotto is a local community of cavers that plan cave trips and work on caving projects together. At Colorado Western Slope Grotto, we focus on recreational and project caving, cave surveying, conservation, and advocacy. Our grotto provides a platform for members to explore caves, share knowledge, and contribute to cave preservation.
Q: How can I join the Colorado Western Slope Grotto?
A: Joining is straightforward. Visit our membership page for details on requirements, application processes, and membership fees. Whether you're a seasoned caver or a beginner, we welcome all cavers.
Q: Do I need any prior experience in caving to join?
A: No prior experience is necessary. We cater to all levels, from beginners to experienced cavers, and provide training and support to new members.
Q: What kind of activities does the grotto organize?
A: Our activities include a range of caving experiences, from casual exploration to more structured project caving. We also engage in cave surveying and various conservation efforts, along with educational outreach programs.
Q: What equipment do I need for caving?
A: Basic caving equipment includes a helmet, headlamp, 2 additional lights, durable clothing, and sturdy footwear. For more specialized activities, additional gear may be required. We have a page dedicated to guidance on gear selection.
Q: How often does the grotto meet and where?
A: We hold monthly remote meetings and organize regular caving trips. Meeting locations are shared with members via our website and newsletters.
Q: Are there any age restrictions for joining the grotto?
A: While we welcome cavers of all ages, certain activities may have age restrictions for safety reasons. Please check with us for specific event guidelines.
Q: How does the grotto promote cave conservation?
A: We are committed to preserving caves. Our efforts include educating members and the public on responsible caving practices, participating in cleanup projects, providing funding for conservation efforts, and advocating for cave protection.
Q: What safety measures are in place for caving trips?
A: Safety is paramount. We adhere to strict safety protocols, provide safety training to our members, and ensure experienced cavers lead all trips.
Q: Can non-members participate in grotto events?
A: Non-members are welcome to participate in select events. We recommend joining a meeting for more information on grotto cave trips. Most members will take you caving once or twice as a non-member however if you are joining several caving trips then it's time to join the grotto as a member.
Q: How does the Grotto use my annual dues?
A: A vote of the membership is required for use of grotto dues collected. Previously, we’ve used collected dues for the following expenses**:
Maintaining the grotto’s website, virtual meeting space, and mailing list. This is a crucial expense for promoting the communication of a membership spread allover the state. If you have received any correspondence from the grotto or attended any of our meetings or special presentations, then you have benefited from dues received.
Subsidizing food and/or accommodation costs for grotto trips such as the upcoming Lime Park weekend.
Supporting cave projects on the Western Slope and elsewhere in Colorado.
Maintaining a caving specific resource library.
Maintaining a library of loaner gear for newer cavers to borrow.
Cave trips requiring reservations and organized by some members give preference to dues paying members.
Building and maintaining an SRT training course in Gypsum, CO.
Dues paying members also receive an annual electronic subscription to Rocky Mountain Caving magazine.
**Dues paid to the grotto are not guiding fees. Neither CWSG, nor any of it’s membership offer a guide service. Neither CWSG, nor any of it’s membership imply or accept liability for any consequences, physical or otherwise, incurred by trip participants. Those who participate in any activity with the grotto or any of it’s membership do so voluntarily, at their own risk, and are responsible for their own safety.