Custer, SD - The park film at Jewel Cave National Monument earned first place in the 2020 Interpretive Media Award Competition for the National Association for Interpretation (NAI). NAI recognizes excellence in film, publications, indoor and outdoor exhibitory, and digital media. NAI awards are widely recognized as a symbol of the highest standards in interpretive media production. All entries were productions released during the 2019 calendar year.
The film, “Jewel Cave National Monument: Discovery in the Darkness" explores one of the longest caves in the world, showcasing its features as a pristine underground wilderness. It takes viewers back in time to the early years of the monument and transitions to present-day, showcasing the many wonderous features of the cave, exploration, and ranger-guided cave tours. Cave exploration is highlighted in the production, with multiple interviews, including early cave explorer Jan Conn. Surface features are shared to encourage exploration on the trails, wildlife watching, and outdoor recreation.
Superintendent Michelle Wheatley said, “We deeply appreciate the work of the film’s producer, production team, and the park staff for this extraordinary film which captures the complexity and frontier nature of Jewel Cave National Monument." The monument worked with the NPS Harpers Ferry Center, Aperture Films, and subject matter experts to craft the overall production. Due to the extreme and arduous conditions within the cave, local cavers captured much of the off-trail footage and showcased the efforts of the volunteer cave explorers.
NPS Production Manager Tim Elms states, “This film is a beautiful production that allows every visitor a chance to experience the exploration and discovery of the cave. It definitely makes viewers walk away with a better appreciation for such a significant resource."
The 22-minute film is available for viewing at the Jewel Cave Visitor Center, located thirteen miles west of Custer, South Dakota on Highway 16. The production can be viewed online on the monument's Multimedia Page. Adding to the visitor experience, the film is also available in DVD in the park store at the visitor center and through the online store, operated by the monument’s cooperative partner - Black Hills Parks and Forests Association.
Jewel Cave is currently open Thursdays through Sundays from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. This includes the visitor center, surface trails, and picnic areas; the monument is closed Mondays through Wednesdays. Visitors are also encouraged to follow the monument on Facebook or Instagram.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
