Hawaii Caving Travelogue 2010

From the Desert of Kau and Beyond

After a week in the desert, we felt it was time for a trip to the Wet Side, as any travel near Hilo could be called. Although there is a drought in effect there now, it is very much relative. Lush Hilo is one of the wettest places on earth. Our hosts there always have fresh fruit at hand, thanks to the orchard outside their front door.

Ti plants.

We need to stay in touch, even when there are other more relaxing things to consider, like a nap.

More Ti.

We did manage to visit some very nice caves, which we were told were typical of caves in this region. Very different than what we see in the desert.

A great deal of time and care is involved in moving through a zone such as this. Cave restoraton specialists Val Hildreth-Werker and Jim Werker are on the island this week. Consideration of passages like this led to a discussion of using archival epoxy as a formation restoration method and development of a kit targeted for use in lava caves. Fortunately, this area remains nearly pristine...nearly.

...And, off we go, not knowing what we will learn next.