Overview
2nd largest cave in world
Filled with crystals (hence the name)
144.02 miles long
Known for its natural beauty
Geologic Origin
Formed by circulation of acid-rich waterPrecambrian-era igneous and metamorphic rocksShallow sea covered areaSea advanced and receded. Sediment and calcium built up60 million years ago Black Hills began to form
ClimateVery hot summers and very cold winters
Monthly average temperatures range from a high of 86.5 degrees to a low of 1.9 degrees.
Wildlife (Animals) Bats
Rats
Springtails
Protozoa
Other microbes
Elk
White-tailed deer
•Mule deer
•Rabbits
•Red squirrels
•Birds
Wildlife (Plants)Pasqueflower
Western salsify
Gunnison's mariposa lily
Pale-purple coneflower
Wild bergamot
Ponderosa pines
•Wavyleaf thistle
Why should we preserve Jewel Cave?
Aesthetics
Natural Beauty
CO2 sink
Brings in tourism
Adds diversity
Habitat
HistoryDiscovered by Frank and Albert Michaud in 1900
Has been used for tourism
Explored since the 1900’s
Crystal harvesting
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