§9-19-1. Definitions.

The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall for the purpose of this chapter have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this section, except in those instances where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

(1) CAVE. Any natural subterranean cavity that is at least 50 feet in length or depth, or any combination of length and depth or that contains obligatory cavernicolous fauna (animals obliged to live underground). The word "cave" includes but is not limited to cavern, pit, pothole, well (natural), sinkhole, and/or grotto.

(2) SPELEOTHEM. A natural secondary mineral deposit or formation in a cave. This includes but is not limited to deposits called stalactites, stalagmites, helictites, anthodites, gypsum flowers, needles, or angels hair, soda straws, draperies, bacon, cave pearls, popcorn, rimstone dams, columns, pallettes and flowstone. Speleothems are commonly composed of calcite, aragonite, epsomite, gypsum, celestite, and other similar minerals.

(3) COMMERCIAL CAVE. Any cave or portion of a cave that is improved with trails and lighting utilized by the owner or lessee for the purpose of exhibition to the public as a profit or nonprofit enterprise.

(4) WILD CAVE. Any cave or portion of a cave that is not a commercial cave.

(Acts 1988, No. 88-582, p. 909, §1.)