Everything old is new again...

I'm told that GeoCaching.com has re-introduced a previously-suspended cache type -- the EarthCache.

So, what's all the fuss? Well, this type of cache aligns with one of the reasons many of us use to help convince non-cachers of the credibility of our activity...it's educational:

Earthcaches are developed by geocachers, geologist, paleontologist, or people that have an interesting and unique earth feature near them and would like to share it with the world. All you need to get started is a GPS receiver and a good idea.

To develop your own Earthcache and share it’s educational value with others, follow the simple Earthcache guidelines and submit the GSA Earthcache Submittal Form for review and approval. Once your site had met the guidelines and is approved by GSA, you can view comments by people who have visited your Earthcache and benefited from it.

Curioiusly, EarthCaches are NOT listed on GeoCaching.com's Cache Type page...though if you do a keyword search you can pull up a listing.

Special criteria are used to evaluate EarthCache submissions:

Because of the nature of Earthcaches, they go through a special approval process in where the language and appropriateness of the cache are tested by the Earthcache team. The Team uses a set of guidelines as well as their own earth science experience to ensure that the quality of Earthcaches is maintained. The Earthcache team is also expanding to make sure that caches in languages other than English are not excluded from the project.

EarthCache.org's cache listing page shows fewer caches...but has more detail as to the creation and approval of qualifying caches. After parusing the list, it appears that some of these would be quite challenging...and fun!

Source: EarthCache.org, Today's Cacher Article
Technorati Tags: GeoCaching, Outdoor, Education, EarthCache, Adventure