Conservation donor donates land in Grundy County, TN with two caves to the Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc.

Signal Mountain, TN -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/17/2020 -- John Attaway has generously donated to the Southeastern Cave Conservancy (SCCi) a 17-acre parcel containing Mayapple and Meander caves. This stunning piece of property is located in Payne Cove in Grundy County, Tennessee. Mayapple Cave has three entrances, all located on the property, with more than 6,000 feet of horizontal passage and 154 feet of vertical cave. Meander is a smaller cave with 123 feet of horizontal passage.

The preserve will be named the "Mayapple - Steve and Nancy Attaway Preserve" in memory of John's son Steve who passed away a year ago and in honor of Steve's wife Nancy who resides in New Mexico. Steve was an active caver in the Southeast during the 1970's and 1980's and served in cave rescue alongside his father. He moved to New Mexico to work at Sandia National Laboratories in 1987 and enjoyed a successful career there until his passing. He maintained his dedication to rescue by serving in Albuquerque Mountain Rescue as a rescue leader, performing hundreds of rescue missions in the wilderness of New Mexico over the years. Steve and Nancy were also accomplished jewelers and gem carvers, winning awards for their work.

SCCi Director Kyle Lassiter says, "John Attaway has been an exemplary caver and landowner for over 45 years. He has always been a very active and engaged member of the caving community. It is not a surprise that his children (Steve and his sister Myrna) followed suit and greatly enriched the caving community in their own right. His generous donation to the SCCi will allow the Attaway legacy to be remembered for many generations to come. The SCCi is excited to protect these caves on this beautiful land forever, honoring his passion for cave conservation."

SCCi is currently making preparations to open the preserve for visitation. As with SCCi's other 30 preserves, recreational use will be carefully balanced with conservation. For more information on SCCi and wild cave conservation in the Southeast, visit www.SaveYourCaves.org.

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SCCi has optioned the purchase of Cyclops Cave and the surrounding 66 acres.

Signal Mountain, TN -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/05/2020 -- The Southeastern Cave Conservancy (SCCi), the world's largest land conservancy solely dedicated to protecting caves, is seeking to raise $150,000 by May 1, 2020 to purchase Virginia's 11th longest cave.

Located at the very edge of Virginia's Valley and Ridge Province, Cyclops Cave is home to rare and endemic fauna and is under threat of destruction from misuse. Recently, cavers discovered graffiti, broken formations and trash inside the cave. It is apparent the cave needs protection and by an experienced organization. Local cavers have contacted SCCi to help. With more than 25 years of conserving wild caves, SCCi protects over 170 caves on nearly 5,000 acres in six states.

The SCCi board made the decision to pursue the purchase of the 66 acre preserve under the condition that the organization raise $150K by the closing date of May 1, 2020. Working with Virginia conservancies and groups from across the country, SCCi has raised nearly $30,000, but needs the public's help to reach the goal by the deadline.

SCCi protects caves and karst lands for future generations by carefully balancing conservation and recreation. Cyclops has the potential to be a great recreational cave under SCCi's conservation model. SCCi will work to protect it in perpetuity.

For more information regarding donations, contact Amber Lehmann, Fundraising Chair, at amber.lehmann@scci.org.

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Signal Mountain, TN -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/26/2019 -- On November 23, 2019, a student from Purdue University fell while rappelling in the Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc.'s (SCCi) Valhalla Cave in Jackson County, Alabama. He was on a Purdue Outing Club trip that included other cave trips. The group had acquired the appropriate SCCi permit.

SCCi Board Chair, Kris Green, said "We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of this young man."

SCCi's Valhalla Preserve was created in 2002. It is a 145-acre nature preserve that includes Valhalla Cave. The cave is accessed through a 227 foot entrance pit. This is the first fatality at the Valhalla Preserve since SCCi acquired it. SCCi is cooperating with local authorities in their investigation.

SCCi is the world's largest land conservancy solely dedicated to saving caves. SCCi protects more than 170 caves on 4,500 acres in six southeastern states. Founded in 1991, SCCi is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Fundraising event to support wild cave conservation across the Southeast.

Signal Mountain, TN -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/06/2019 -- On September 21, the Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc (SCCi) will hold its 4th Annual Bats, Beer & Bluegrass event in Chickamauga, GA. The event raises funds to continue SCCi's work in saving wild caves across the Southeast. Asked why the work is so important, SCCi Executive Director Ray Knott, responded "When caves are safeguarded, fragile ecosystems are protected, historic artifacts are preserved, and endangered species thrive."

Bats, Beer & Bluegrass combines great Southern food from Parkway Pourhouse, local craft beer from Chattanooga Brewing, and some of the best Bluegrass music around featuring No Time Flatt and TinCup Rattlers.

This year's event is being presented by sponsors Kelly Subaru and Ruby Falls. Table sponsorship is still available. Tickets are $60 and $90 and must be purchased in advance. Last year's event sold out.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit BatsBeerandBluegrass.com

About The Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc.
The Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (SCCi) protects more than 170 caves on 4,500 acres in six southeastern states. To learn more about SCCi and wild cave conservation, visit www.SaveYourCaves.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Charles B Henson Preserve contains 30 known caves, stands of hardwood trees, and stunning vistas.

Signal Mountain, TN -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/15/2019 -- The Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. recently received a donation of more than 2,300 acres in Northwest Georgia from an anonymous donor, as well as additional acreage from the Georgia-Alabama Land Trust, Inc. Together, the donated property constitutes most of the failed development called the Preserve at Rising Fawn, located at Johnsons Crook in Dade County, Georgia.

The property includes more than 30 known caves, stands of hardwood trees in a stunning landscape, and a diverse ecological environment supporting wildlife of all kinds. This donated land will be named the Charles B. Henson Preserve at Johnsons Crook, honoring the memory of Chuck Henson, a long-time caver and benefactor to the Conservancy. His recognition of the risks of development to the fragile systems of Johnsons Crook and the opportunity for conservation began the efforts to protect the land and make the preserve a reality.

For over six years, Georgia-Alabama Land Trust worked to protect many parcels in the failed development as they became available, through the acquisition of land and through conservation easements. It now holds a permanent conservation easement on all of the land in the Henson Preserve. The Land Trust's Johnson's Crook Project was accomplished through private and corporate donations, and support from foundations such as the Open Space Institute's Northwest Georgia Land Protection Fund. Open Space Institute's Northwest Georgia Land Protection Fund is made possible with funding from the Lyndhurst Foundation and the Benwood Foundation. The Northwest Georgia Land Protection Fund seeks to build capacity of land trusts working to protect ecologically significant landscapes in northwest Georgia.

"I can't tell you how thrilled I am that this project all came together," said Katherine Eddins, Executive Director of Georgia-Alabama Land Trust. "The importance of preserving Johnson's Crook first came to my attention fifteen years ago, and it has been gratifying to see land once slated for development preserved in its natural state."

"The partnership with the Land Trust has made it possible for this natural resource to be protected and enjoyed forever by cavers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts," said Ray Knott, Executive Director of SCCi. "The Conservancy wants the Henson Preserve to be an asset to Dade County and the North Georgia community."

The Conservancy will work with community partners to develop a master plan for the Henson Preserve. "Conserving this amount of land comes with a lot of responsibility and cost. Stewardship, trails, and basic recreation structures can be costly. We will need the input and support of many partners to make the Henson Preserve a North Georgia destination," stated Knott.

About The Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc.
The Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (SCCi) protects more than 170 caves on 4,500 acres in six southeastern states. To learn more about SCCi and wild cave conservation, visit www.SaveYourCaves.org.

The Georgia-Alabama Land Trust, Inc. is a nonprofit conservation organization that actively works to protect and steward land. They are the largest land trust that services the Southeastern region of the United States. For more information on protecting land in Alabama and Georgia, visit www.GeorgiaAlabamaLandTrust.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Introduces one-of-a-kind oatmeal stout named after one of SCCi’s most beloved and notable caves - Valhalla

Chattanooga, TN -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/07/2018 -- Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (SCCi), the largest land conservancy in the world solely focused on protecting wild caves, recently announced a new corporate partnership with Chattanooga Brewing.

To kick off this partnership, Chattanooga Brewing is offering a one-of-a-kind oatmeal stout named after one of SCCi's most beloved and notable caves - Valhalla. Bold, creamy and full-bodied, Valhalla Cave Imperial Oatmeal Stout draws its unique and complex flavor from seven different types of malted barley and a healthy dose of flaked oats. Dark chocolate notes, a hint of coffee and a black-as-night appearance come together for a mysterious brew named after the beautiful Valhalla Cave.

"Developing partnerships like the one with Chattanooga Brewing are so important to SCCi and our mission to save caves," says Ray Knott, Executive Director of SCCi. "Our corporate partners make it possible for us to protect unique experiences in nature like no other, not only for our partners, but for everyone."

Valhalla Cave Imperial Oatmeal Stout is on tap at Chattanooga Brewing located at 1804 Chestnut Street on Chattanooga's Southside, and at Parkway Pourhouse located 801 Riverfront Parkway, Chattanooga. Visit either one of these locations to enjoy a fantastic brew, while supporting SCCi and wild cave conservation.

About Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc.
Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. protects caves through conservation, education, and recreation. When caves are safeguarded, fragile ecosystems are protected, historic artifacts are preserved, and endangered species thrive. SCCi is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Signal Mountain, Tennessee. Visit SaveYourCaves.org for more information.

About Chattanooga Brewing
The finest German-style beer in the southeast flowed from the taps of the Chattanooga Brewing Company at the turn of the 20th century. Nearly a hundred years later, two crafty engineers brought together by their mutual love for beer endeavored to brew something great in the city they love.

Today, we continue to celebrate the pints poured before us, all while brewing a line of classic and specialty beers. We pride ourselves on serving food that's as intentionally crafted as our brews, using locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Visit us in Chattanooga's historic Southside and taste for yourself. Visit www.chattabrew.com for more information.

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Signal Mountain, TN -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/25/2018 -- The Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (SCCi), the largest land conservancy in the world solely focused on protecting wild caves, recently moved into its new office space at 2213 Fairmount Pike, Signal Mountain, TN.

The new office will allow SCCi to grow its staff and volunteer base is as it continues to acquire and protect more caves. "Our growth plans reflect 27 years of progress," says Ray Knott, Executive Director of SCCi. "Since SCCi started in a living room in Atlanta, we've come a long way in protecting more than 170 caves that span the Southeast US. But stewardship of these underground treasures is never-ending, and we need fresh ideas and more allies. With this new space, we'll be able to better foster collaboration with our donors, members, and conservation partners."

SCCi's work is vital to the effort of environmental conservation. "The Southeastern US is home to some of the most beautiful and scientifically significant caves in North America. But sadly, many of them are under threat of destruction from development or misuse. So we work to protect and preserve these caves for you, for future generations, and for the hundreds of endangered species that call them home," Knott said.

About Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc.
Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. protects and preserves caves through conservation, education, and recreation. When caves are safeguarded, fragile ecosystems are protected, historic artifacts are preserved, and endangered species thrive. SCCi is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Signal Mountain, Tennessee. Visit SaveYourCaves.org for more information.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

SCCi is hosting a fundraising concert at its Fricks Cave Preserve in Chickamauga GA September 26, 2016 to celebrate 25 years of cave conservation. Fricks Cave Preserve is home to 10,000 endangered gray bats. More information at batsbeerandbluegrass.com

Chattanooga, TN -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/16/2016 -- On September 24, 2016, from 5pm-9pm, Southeastern Cave Conservancy (SCCi) is hosting a unique fundraising event titled Bats, Beer, & Bluegrass, on Frick's Cave Preserve in Chickamauga, Ga., which SCCi owns and manages. This first year event is in celebration of SCCi's 25th year of conserving protecting and managing caves of the southeast, and is sure to delight not only cave enthusiasts, but nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

This memorable concert will feature Chattanooga's bluegrass favorite, Barefoot Nellie & Co., performing on the beautiful preserve grounds, with the stunning cave entrance as the stage backdrop. Frick's Cave is the summer home of over 10,000 endangered gray bats, Georgia's only known population of the rare Tennessee cave salamander, and 33.8 acres of north Georgia karstland. It is one of only two gray bat caves in Georgia. Frick's Cave will be closed for visitation at the time of the event to protect the bats, but the beautiful preserve will be in full Autumn color.

Bats, Beer and Bluegrass is the kickoff for a fundraising campaign to raise 2.5 million dollars over the next 5 years for SCCi's Stewardship Endowment Fund. This fund will ensure SCCi's ability to protect caves and karst environments across the southeast for all future generations.

The evening will begin for dinner ticket holders at 5pm, with a delicious BBQ dinner served by Tennessee's #1 Farm to Table Restaurant, 212 Market Restaurant. SCCi will also be selling a selection of craft beer from Big River Brewing starting at 5pm. The bluegrass concert will begin at 6pm, immediately following the dinner. Following the concert, at dusk, guests will have an opportunity to watch the beautiful bat flight from the cave (bats willing, of course). In addition, t-shirts, concert posters, and other great merchandise will be for sale. Tickets must be purchased online in advance as their will only be 200 tickets sold.

More information and ticket sales for this event can be found at www.batsbeerandbluegrass.com.

Sponsors for this events are: Kris Greene, SCCi Founding Member, On Rope 1 (of Harrison, TN), Inner Mountain Outfitters (of Trenton, GA), Southern Environmental Technologies (of Chattanooga, TN), Big River Brewing (of Chattanooga, TN), and Synergy Real Estate Group (of Nashville, TN).

About Southeastern Cave Conservancy
Founded in 1991, Southeastern Cave Conservancy is the largest land conservancy solely dedicated to cave and karst environments. SCCi is a tax-exempt not-for-profit 501(c)(3) that owns and manages 170 caves on 30 preserves in 6 states. Through grassroots efforts and a member base of 1,000, SCCi protects the most beautiful underground landscapes through conservation, education, and recreation.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm