Abstract
The aim of the research detailed here has been to apply a new approach in assessing cave environmental changes – the so-called Cave Disturbance Index (CDI), relating to relief, water objects, air, vegetation and fauna (as the main geographical components of the cave environment) plus cultural aspects of recent cave use. Indicators coming under each of these categories are considered in detail and a quantitative estimation of total CDI then proposed. Practical application of the CDI method is then demonstrated by reference to caves situated in the Muradimovskoe Uschelie Natural Park (Southern Ural Mountains).
Highlights
In 2011 the traditional Classic Karst International Karstological School convened in Postojna (Slovenia) was devoted to “Karst Underground Protection”
North et al exploring anthropogenic effects on superficial karst, it is expedient and timely to consider a new approach to the qualitative and quantitative assessment of human-induced modifications to the state of caves which will take the form of a Cave Disturbance Index (CDI) based around the five principal categories of relief, water objects, air, vegetation and fauna and cultural aspects
The application of the new approach is demonstrated by reference to the caves within the Muradimovskoe Uschelie Natural Park
Summary
In 2011 the traditional Classic Karst International Karstological School convened in Postojna (Slovenia) was devoted to “Karst Underground Protection”. The participants at this international forum (more than 200 from 25 countries of Europe, Asia, South America and Australia) noted how karst caves in the 21st century are increasingly modified by human activity. As well as the work of L.A. North et al exploring anthropogenic effects on superficial karst, it is expedient and timely to consider a new approach to the qualitative and quantitative assessment of human-induced modifications to the state of caves which will take the form of a Cave Disturbance Index (CDI) based around the five principal categories of relief, water objects, air, vegetation and fauna and cultural aspects.
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