It was formed by a group of southeastern cavers in 1991, and currently has about 500 members.
Membership is open to all persons interested in caves and cave conservation.
One of the SCCI's primary activities is the acquisition of caves through purchase, lease, easement, donation, or management agreements. Potential acquisitions are carefully evaluated. Presence of endangered plants or animals, significant geological and hydrological features, wilderness quality, threats from development or exploitation, and access issues all play a role in the evaluation process. We also work with other organizations to develop educational programs to teach people about the importance and value of cave and karst ecosystems, geology, and hydrology. The Conservancy is governed by an elected Board of Directors comprised of nine active cavers from around the southeast.