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Management and mitigation of sinkholes on karst lands: an overview of practical applications

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Environmental Geology

Abstract

When karst lands are developed for residential or commercial purposes, sinkholes are to be properly managed or mitigated. This paper discusses various types of sinkholes and their possible formation mechanisms, presents some guidelines for sinkhole management, and summarizes several engineering measures for sinkhole remediation. Because a sinkhole is often not an isolated feature but a component of an integrated groundwater and surface water system, knowledge of the sinkhole geology and hydrology is essential in selection of the proper management tools and remediation options. Adverse effects including flooding, additional sinkholes, and groundwater contamination can result from poorly managed or improperly repaired sinkholes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. P.E. LaMoreaux & Associates, Inc, 106 Administration Road, Ste.4, Oak Ridge, TN, 37830, USA

    Wanfang Zhou & Barry F. Beck

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  1. Wanfang Zhou
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  2. Barry F. Beck
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Correspondence to Wanfang Zhou.

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Zhou, W., Beck, B.F. Management and mitigation of sinkholes on karst lands: an overview of practical applications. Environ Geol 55, 837–851 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00254-007-1035-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00254-007-1035-9

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