GCG WNS STATEMENTGreater Cincinnati Grotto is very concerned about WNS and the possible effects on bats in our caving areas of Rockcastle, Jackson, Pulaski and Wayne counties as well as other areas.GCG supports very conservative caving practices in light of the Fish and Wildlife Service guidelines. Large grotto trips in proscribed states will be canceled. We understand that many cavers will choose to cave regardless. The grotto will not condone these trips, but asks that if cavers are planning to cave, they should be in small groups carefully following a rigorous decontamination protocol. We will keep our members informed of the best known decontamination protocol and update it as more information becomes available. Hibernaculae should not be entered during hibernation ordinarily, and we recommend staying clear of them at all times (even after hibernation season) until more information is available. If you are going to cave, cave responsibly. New WNS Procedures 4/12/16https://www.whitenosesyndrome.org/sites/default/files/files/national_wns_decon_protocol_04.12.2016.pdfWNS Decontamination ProceduresThese procedures are based on, and incorporate the fundamentals, of the USFWS recommendations but are clearer regarding which process and substances can be used safely on particular gear.
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