MN.Fruitcake: I'm archiving this listing based on two points:
First, the cache appears, from photos submitted to me recently, to be buried in the ground.
http://support.groundspeak.com/index.php?pg=kb.page&id=304#buried
"Geocaches are never buried."
Second, from reading various logs (including the CO's own log on 12/1/11), it sounds like the area that the cache is in has suffered some substantial damage, likely due to the cache itself.
http://support.groundspeak.com/index.php?pg=kb.page&id=304#damage
"Geocache placements do not deface or destroy public or private property. Geocaches are placed so that the surrounding environment is safe from both intentional or unintentional harm. Keep both natural and human-made objects safe."
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me through my profile. Make sure you include the GCxxxxx code so I know which cache you're referring to.