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| On August 5, 2005, the Casparis Caves in Connellsville, Fayette County were closed due to a cooperative effort between DEP, Laurel Sand and Stone, Cenex Explosives, and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The caves were actually four abandoned limestone mine passageways that had become a serious public safety hazard for people entering these passageways, due to very unstable conditions such as roof and rib falls. Representing the Bureau of Mine Safety were Industrial Minerals Underground Mine Inspectors Mark Eckley and John Bentzel, and Emergency Response/Training Specialists John Cool and Larry Stowinsky. The floor in front of passageways was shot to create material to be used for the closure of the mine portals. This closure was supposed to be completed on August 10. Efforts such as these are in conjunction with the Department’s “Stay Out – Stay Alive” public safety awareness program. |