The Böse-Mauer-Schacht - Speleologic-hydrogeologic Research on the Underground Drainage of the Western Hochschwab Massif

Abstract: The Böse-Mauer-Schacht (Austrian Cave Registry 1742/12) was investigated four times between 2003 and 2005. The work is part of karst hydrogeologic investigations in the Hinterseeaugraben (western Hochschwab, north of Eisenerz). The objective of the speleological work was to detect a possible connection between reported free accessible conduits in the cave and the karst springs in the Hinterseeaugraben. Another objective was the investigation of the relationship between tectonic structures and underground flow directions. The results will be included in a conceptual karst drainage model to be developed after further investigations. During four visits a total length of 577 m has been surveyed with a maximum difference between highest and lowest station of about 131 m. A 30 m-shaft supposed to give access to deeper water active sections was surveyed but could not be followed further due to blocking with debris at its basis. To date the accessible watercourse reported in literature could not be reached. Further investigations to get access to the deeper parts possibly through presently unknown bypassing galleries are necessary.

Key Words: Speleology; Karsthydrogeology; Structural geology; Hochschwab.

Joannea Geol. Paläont. 8: 5-23 (2006)