"Speleology and Society"

First Circular

The Cuban Speleological Society (SEC, for its Spanish acronym), on the occasion of the commemoration of its 70th anniversary, calls all speleologist to participate in its 70th congress to be held in the city of Matanzas, Cuba, between August 4^th to the 8^th, 2010.  In the framework of this event the VI Congress of the Speleological Federation of Latin America and the Caribbean (FEALC) will also be held.

With approximately 90% of its territory consisting of karstic areas, the Matanzas Province has major cave systems at the gates of the city, of which stand out ?for its speleothems, wildlife and management policies- the "Bellamar" and "Santa Catalina" cave systems, located on the north coast.  Both caves have been categorized as National Monuments.  Also in the plains of center-south Matanzas territory, extends the karstic region that feeds the underground aquifer system of the "Zapata Marshland", located in the National Park of the same name, which also holds the categories of Biosphere Reserve and Natural Heritage of Humanity.

We issue this first call in order to obtain the largest possible participation, both of Cuban and foreign speleologists, as well as persons interested in the theme of the congress.

The forthcoming circulars will inform about possible changes in the various working committees, requirements for the abstracts and due dates, inscription fees, travel agencies and lodging possibilities, as well as other simultaneous activities and excursions.

Proposed working committees to date:
- Speleology in general
- Biospeleology
- Kastic Hydrology
- Historical Speleology (Archaeology)
- Management and Conservation of Karst

The official web site address of the event, which is currently under construction, will be published shortly; meanwhile you may use the following addresses to communicate with the Organizing Committee:

speleomat@atenas.inf.cu

admtordpjmt@dpjmt.minjus.cu

Without further ado and waiting in your participation

The Organizing Committee
Congress for the 70 Anniversary of the SEC