Tumbling Creek Cave Restoration – Ozark Underground Laboratory
This article featured in Subterranean Journeys – a publication by Springfield Plateau Grotto
In the beautiful Ozark hills of Southwest Missouri lays a hidden gem of spectacular beauty, rare wildlife and immeasurable speleological importance. Surrounded by thousands of acres of rugged land and national forest is Tumbling Creek Cave at the Ozark Underground Laboratory. Described as the most biologically diverse cave west of the Mississippi River, over 130 different species of cave life have been recorded so far. Besides the diversity of life, this cave contains miles of almost perfectly preserved cave formations. A visit to the cave is an educational experience not found anywhere else. The organization provides short courses, field trips and educational tours for college groups, biologists, hydrologists, geologists, and engineers. These courses and programs have educated a large number on the importance of protecting
