We've talked a lot about the gear needed for Frogging and how it can be optimized for better efficiency and easier/safer rescues. It is important to continue having discussions, be open minded, and learn from those around you. Don't just stop at studying your own gear, study your teammates' gear and systems too. If you are caving with buddies who have different rappel devices, you need to know how to use, and tie off, both your device and their device(s). Your lives may depend on it! Practice in a controlled and safe environment before an incident occurs. Preparedness is key. About the Authors- John Punches, Gretchen Baker, Andy Armstrong, Scott McCrea, Tom Evans, and Mel Eady-Pumplin (editor and illustrator) Each contributor to this article has been involved with developing the National Cave Rescue Commission (NCRC) small party assisted rescue (SPAR) class. Collectively we have more than 105 years teaching cave rescue as volunteers. Caving is important to each of us, but not at the risk of safety and conservation. We urge you to continue your quest for education in safe and responsible caving practices. View the full article for more information: https://caves.org/caves/optimizing-the-frog-system-for-rescue-rescuers-perspectives/ (fb)

Start your mornings at this year's National Cave & Karst Management Symposium with Coffee & Karst, a new interactive roundtable event hosted by the National Cave & Karst Research Institute (NCKRI). The symposium will be held from October 6-10 in Ely, Nevada - all cavers are welcome! On Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 8AM-9AM, grab a cup of coffee and join your fellow cavers for informal, yet serious discussions on the real-world challenges facing the caving community. Have a challenge you're facing? Share it with us in advance or bring it to the session. Chances are, someone else has dealt with it - and has insights to share. Several tables will be set up each day, and each table will focus on specific topics. We'll keep the coffee flowing until your questions find answers! (And yes, of course we'll have doughnuts!!) For more information, go to - https://ely2025.nckms.org/symposium/coffee-karst.php (fb)