In other sections of this knowledge center you have learned that caves and karst harbor rare cave animals, irreplaceable artifacts and fossils, unique speleothems, and important water resources. Many enchanting caves and karstic areas are protected within the national park system, without proper management, however, the use of caves by humans can cause serious negative impacts upon cave and karst resources. A recent landmark decision, the Lechuguilla Cave Protection Act (P. L. 103-169, December 2, 1993), has helped the National Park Service manage caves properly. The passage of this act occurred after Lechuguilla Cave in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico, was threatened by oil and gas exploration on adjacent Bureau of Land Management lands. The act states that “Lechuguilla Cave... [has] internationally significant scientific, environmental, and other values and should be...protected...against...adverse effects of mineral exploration and development.” The act withdraws all federal lands inside the