Karst Topography
Karst refers to landforms above bedrock that are soluble and can be dissolved by acidic groundwater. Common features of karst landforms include caves and underground streams. The surface of the land is marked with sinkholes and surface streams are rare. Everything flows under the ground like a complicated system of pipes. In a typical groundwater model it’s possible to see where groundwater will flow based on factors such as the slope of the ground. Not so in karst. Water can flow in any direction, crossing below boundaries that would stop normal groundwater flow.
Groundwater in a karst system moves fast. This can represent a significant problem when contaminants are introduced. There have been times where a release has entered and existed a karst system before responders can get to the scene. Knowing where your groundwater goes can be an important step in preventing and solving problems.
Dye tracing is the most common tool used to determine where groundwater is coming from and where it is going. Fortunately, based on the number of caves in Indiana and Kentucky, modern groundwater professionals have access to a large database of knowledge. Combined with know-how, ReDevelopInc. can help solve problems in areas with complicated geology and hydrology.