Caves are some of the creepiest and coolest places on Earth. Brave scientists known as cave geologists venture into their dark depths in order to learn more about these extreme places. Thanks to detailed text and photographs of cave geologists at work, readers can feel like they’re in mysterious caves alongside these scientists. Cave geologists use science, technology, engineering, and math to do their research and to stay safe in this dangerous environment. In learning about this career, readers also learn about important topics in STEM-focused science curricula. Fun fact boxes and a graphic organizer enhance this exciting reading experience.

While reading this book, young learners will explore the scientific research underway in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, the site of one of the best-preserved ancient fossil reefs on Earth. With more than 100 spectacular caves, this park offers scientists and researchers the opportunity to study and explore countless unique cave formations. The Natural Laboratory: Scientists in National Parks series takes a look at the research and responsibilities of scientists working in U.S. national parks. Each 7.5" x 10" photo-filled book explores the topography of the park, its natural resources, the specific projects that have been undertaken there and why these projects are significant. Each 48-page book in the series also features quotes from scientists working in the featured park, to better explain to readers how and why things are done

"Knowledge and understanding of cave and karst systems have evolved dramatically since the creation of the Geological Society of America in 1888. This book, which came out of a session during GSA's 2013 Annual Meeting, highlights the changes in the study and application of cave and karst systems since GSA's origin, while looking ahead to future advancements"--

"Geologic Monitoring is a practical, nontechnical guide for land managers, educators, and the public that synthesizes representative methods for monitoring short-term and long-term change in geologic features and landscapes. A prestigious group of subject-matter experts has carefully selected methods for monitoring sand dunes, caves and karst, rivers, geothermal features, glaciers, nearshore marine features, beaches and marshes, paleontological resources, permafrost, seismic activity, slope movements, and volcanic features and processes. Each chapter has an overview of the resource; summarizes features that could be monitored; describes methods for monitoring each feature ranging from low-cost, low-technology methods (that could be used for school groups) to higher cost, detailed monitoring methods requiring a high level of expertise; and presents one or more targeted case studies."--Publisher's description.