I couldn't agree with Peter more...
However, do not let us suppose it is only caving groups who can be irresponsible (the originator of this discussion appears to be very responsible and willing to co-operate and learn from others).
There are however those who, as a member of NAMHO, and proclaiming the virtues of preservation and heritage, need to take a long hard look at where they are coming from, and the example they set.
The NAMHO Guidelines (openly available and in the public domain www.namho.org) under the headings:
REMOVAL OF ARTEFACTS 1 - 12
MINERAL COLLECTING 1 - 20
GUIDELINES ON ARCHIVAL REPORTS & PUBLICATION 1 - 9
are excellent, and should be the basis and foundation stone of any group which takes one step underground into the wealth of mining history we are privileged to be the custodians of.
My enquiries underground were in the 50's and early 60's. I have witnessed the mindless damage caused by groups in the name of caving, potholing, speleology, geology, mining history and the like. I am now so grateful that there is an organisation like NAMHO who hopefully can influence underground archaeology.
NAMHO may wish to think about adding a section to its Guidelines with regard to Health & Safety underground. Let us have thinking and recommendations on this subject in the Public Domain for all to see. It is a subject on which there is much misunderstanding, which is conveniently ignored, or tuned to suit.
Trevor Dunkerley
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