Missouri Institute of Natural Science celebrates 20 years since discovery of Riverbluff Cave

NEAR SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - The Missouri Institute of Natural Science is celebrating 20 years since the discovery of the Riverbluff Cave in southwest Greene County.

The cave was first found back in Sept. 2001, when crews were blasting rocks away to build a road, opening up a 40-foot wide hole in the ground to the cave.

Organizers celebrated the anniversary with presentations and other family-friendly activities. More than 400 people gathered for a celebration Saturday, which consisted of food trucks and raffles for books, fossils, minerals, and a free tour in Riverbluff cave.

“The cave has done so much for science, education, and our community and it wouldn’t be possible without you our friends who continue to visit and support the museum,” said Matt Forir, director of the Missouri Institute of Natural Science. “So I want to take this moment to say thanks for being part of my dream. Keep visiting and keep being our friends and we will keep bringing you the biggest, best and most exciting discoveries on this planet.”

Forir offered presentations on how Riverbluff Cave was discovered and what explorers found that first day. Riverbluff Cave is a privately owned research cave by the Missouri Institute of Natural Science.

For more on the history of the cave, CLICK HERE.

To report a correction or typo, please email digitalnews@ky3.com

Copyright 2021 KY3. All rights reserved.