Associations and Accreditations

Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

The cave lies within the Ingleborough Site of Special Scientific Interest. SSSIs  are the country's very best wildlife and geological sites.  Natural England has responsibility for protecting them, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The ‘Three Peaks’ of Ingleborough,  Pen-y-ghent and Whernside may become the nucleus of a ‘geo park’, an official designation increasingly used for areas of outstanding geological importance and interest.   Parts of Inglborough are also a National Nature Reserve (NNR).
 

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

White Scar is also part of the Ingleborough Complex, a Special Area of Conservation.  SACs are areas which have been given special protection under the European Union’s Habitats Directive. They provide increased protection to a variety of wild animals, plants and habitats and are a vital part of global efforts to conserve the world’s biodiversity.
 

International Show Caves Association (ISCA)

A show cave is a natural cave that has been adapted so that visitors may easily enter, avoiding the need for special clothing and equipment.  Usually a cave trail is established, and lamps are installed to show the underground features and to light the way.  Frequently there are guides who escort and inform visitors.  White Scar Cave is a member of the International Show Caves Association, which exists to safeguard the subterranean environment while promoting responsible access to and enjoyment of caves.
 

Australasian Cave and Karst Management Association (ACKMA)

In 2010 White Scar Cave became an overseas member the Australasian Cave and Karst Management Association, which promotes cave conservation and access in Australia and New Zealand.  The region is a long way from Yorkshire, so why join?  ACKMA monitors advances in cave management techniques, carries out research, and publishes an informative quarterly journal.  It is important keep up with developments, even those on the other side of the world.

 
Photo credits  Robbie Shone:  Screen saver, Battlefield Cavern, Squeeze.  Daniel Hopkinson: Local Info top left.
Paul Kabrna: Craven Fault image on Cave Highlights.