Gypsum Karst caves?

[Chunky]

I've seen some info on gypsum karst caves, many of which have submerged regions. Has anyone dove any caves formed in this type of formation? Does the gypsum/anhydrite have any adverse affects on the water such as poor vis or harsh properties that might have a negative effect on divers/equipment?

Thanks!
Martin.

[battles2a5]

There was just an article about this in Advanced Diver Magazine. Jill Heinerth visited some of her sidemount students in Russia to explore a gypsum cave system in the Urals. The pics in the magazine showed some really nice vis. The article stated that the systems were not as stable as limestone so collapse is a concern.

[Webmaster]

Gypsum is pretty benign chemically, but it is physically very soft as anyone that has dealt with gypsum wall board can attest. You can scratch it with a fingernail.

Russia has some very long gypsum caves like Optymistychna (134 miles, may be more now). Very mazy.

There are gypsum caves in the US, primarily in the Oklahoma area that I know of. Not sure if there are any diving oportunities there, but it's certainly possible. Alabaster Caverns SP in OK is certainly worth a visit if you're in the area.

There are other areas in the US with large gypsum deposits, but I don't believe they are cavernous.

Marbry

[rchrds]

There is a project in Western Colorado, eastern Utah I think called GYPKAP- they are doing all sorts gypsum caving over there- have not heard much about sumps, but that is not really their thing.

Jason

[Chunky]

Thanks. I saw a journal article on a region in South Eastern New Mexico along the Texas-New Mexico Border with some interesting formations. One article had a map of one system with a very large flooded region. Which is why I became interested in Gypsum Karst caves. I probably need to contact the scientists about the condition and accessability of the cave. I'd rather not drive 10 hours only to find out I can't dive it...

Martin.