Missouri teens explore cave ecosystems during conservation summer camp

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MISSOURI (KBSI) — A group of teens explored one of Missouri’s cave systems as part of the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Conservation Teens Summer Camp.

Participants visited Striler City Cave, where experts from the SEMO Grotto, a local chapter of the National Speleological Society, led a guided tour through the cave.

During the excursion, campers learned about the cave’s history, examined fossils and observed native cave wildlife, including long-tailed salamanders.

Missouri is home to more than 7,000 recorded caves, earning it the nickname “The Cave State.” The Missouri Department of Conservation uses programs like the summer camp to educate young people about the state’s unique cave and karst ecosystems.

More information about Missouri’s caves and other natural habitats is available through the Missouri Department of Conservation.