Overstreet Cave Gate

Why Overstreet Cave Matters

The focus of the effort was Overstreet Cave, a remote and ecologically sensitive site that serves as a summer roost for the endangered Gray Bat (Myotis grisescens). This species, one of the first to be listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, remains under protection and is classified as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Kentucky.

The Kentucky River Palisades, with its steep gorges and limestone cliffs, provides an ideal habitat for various bat species, including the Gray Bat, Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalis), and Northern Long-Eared Myotis (Myotis septentrionalis), which has recently been classified as federally endangered due to White-Nose Syndrome (WNS). These bats roost in the region’s cliffside caves and forests, with Overstreet Cave being one of the most significant sites, hosting an estimated 25,000 Gray Bats.

Gray bats are highly selective about their roosting sites, requiring caves with stable temperatures and humidity to rear their young. Overstreet Cave’s microclimate provides these essential conditions, making it a critical maternity colony. Female Gray Bats give birth to a single pup each year, and disturbances before the bats can fly may cause flightless pups to fall to their deaths, potentially leading to roost abandonment and population decline. While a habitat notice is posted at the entrance of Overstreet Cave, gating the cave provides an added layer of protection for this vulnerable species.

Weathering the Storm with Resilience & Commitment

Throughout the project, the team faced not only physical challenges but also severe weather conditions. Torrential rains and high winds from Hurricane Helene, followed by freezing temperatures and a blizzard, halted progress at various stages. Despite these setbacks, the team adapted and continued working with determination. By the third and final expedition, the weather had improved, though conditions remained unpredictable, and allowed the team to make significant progress.

By the end of the project, the team had successfully completed one of the most challenging cave gate installations ever attempted, showcasing extraordinary teamwork, resilience, and commitment. Kennedy’s leadership, combined with the volunteers’ dedication, ensures the long-term protection of Overstreet Cave.

Why We Do This Work

Now, you may ask yourself, what motivates people to dedicate so many hours to such demanding projects? For many volunteers across the U.S., like Dylan Wilson states, “It’s a deep sense of duty and responsibility to protect the unprotected.” One of my favorite quotes comes from being in the truck riding to a job site with Jim as well. He stated, “There’s never a bad time to step up and do something good for the environment.” This sentiment resonates deeply with myself, and other volunteers, motivating us to protect these natural wonders. Our work on cave gate installations is driven by a commitment to preserving natural history and a sense of pride in knowing that the efforts are crucial to safeguarding the environment.

The physical and mental challenges involved in building cave gates also serve as motivators. While demanding, the process is rewarding, offering a profound sense of accomplishment upon successful installation. And, as was the case with Overstreet Cave, there’s often a collective sigh of relief when the job is completed. After all, caves often house irreplaceable resources, including unique ecosystems, fragile geological formations, and archaeological artifacts, all of which are vulnerable to damage from human activity, climate change, or vandalism. Installing gates ensures the protection and preservation of these invaluable resources.

In Gratitude

The ACCA would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers involved, including members of our staff: Cole Avery, Maddox Carroll, Jim “Crash” Kennedy, Jay Pruitt, and Dylan Wilson, as well as the following organizations: Cave Gators, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Kentucky Natural Lands Trust, Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves, Kentucky Bat Working Group, East Kentucky Power Cooperative, Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, Eastern Kentucky Power Co- op, HMB Engineers, University of Kentucky, Third Rock Consulting, Lochner, and Lotus Enterprises.

Funding for the Overstreet Cave Gaiting Project was provided by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet with in- kind contributions from all of the participating partners.