Cannon County Sinkhole, TN

Tennessee’s karst landscape poses unique geological risks, like in Cannon County. This area has soluble limestone bedrock, a key feature of Tennessee’s karst regions. Groundwater dissolves this rock, creating underground voids that collapse into depressions on the surface.

Recent surveys found 41 verified sinkholes in the county, with 15 over 3 meters deep. These sinkholes are found along specific paths where water flows, as shown by USGS maps. The areas with more water flow are where the limestone dissolves faster.

Two main factors increase the risk of sinkholes here: high-purity limestone composition and focused surface runoff. Heavy rainfall in the spring makes erosion worse, mainly where the soil is thin. This is similar to what happens in other parts of Middle Tennessee’s karst terrain.

Researchers say elevation contours help predict where sinkholes will form. Steep areas show active erosion, while flat ones have older, stable sinkholes. This helps explain why some parts of the county have more sinkholes than others.

Recent & Notable Sinkhole Incidents / Case Studies

Cannon County’s biggest sinkhole is the Bailey Sink (CAS001), a 120-foot deep hole near Readyville. It was first found in 1968 and has been quiet ever after. The Tennessee Department of Conservation says there have been no big sinkhole events in the area after 2003.

Key traits of the Bailey Sink include:

• Depth of 120 feet – the deepest in Cannon County
• Located 2.3 miles northeast of Readyville’s town center
• Classified as a stable formation from 2005

The county’s low sinkhole rate is thanks to its unique karst topography. Out of 42 sinkholes studied, 78% have not grown in size over 20 years. The 2021 report from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation backs this up, pointing to less water movement as a reason.

Today, we have better ways to watch for risks:

• Annual LiDAR surveys track tiny changes in height
• Satellite-based InSAR technology watches for ground shifts
• Hydrological models forecast water level changes

Even though there’s no danger now, state officials keep a close eye on these areas. Homeowners near the Bailey Sink get regular updates from TDEC’s Karst Hazard Notification System. This careful monitoring follows the best ways to handle sinkhole risks.

Risk Factors & What Homeowners Should Do

Cannon County TN is at risk for sinkholes because of its limestone-rich soil and changing weather. The area’s geology, along with frequent rain and groundwater use, makes it more prone to sinkholes. Activities like construction can also make the ground unstable, leading to sinkholes.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) suggests checking foundations yearly and using stormwater systems. Homeowners should watch for signs like depressions in the ground, sudden water pooling, or cracks in walls. Reporting these signs to geological surveys is important. Tennessee’s SB 880 law also requires insurance companies to offer sinkhole coverage, but claims need a geotechnical evaluation.

To protect your home, keep gutters and downspouts clear to avoid water damage. Don’t plant trees or plants with deep roots near your house. Experts suggest using soil stabilization methods like compaction grouting in risky areas. Places like Barry County, Missouri, show how mapping can help prevent damage.

If you think there might be a sinkhole, contact TDEC’s Karst Division within 48 hours. Experts use radar and borehole tests to check for sinkholes. Acting quickly can stop small problems from becoming big ones. Most sinkholes happen from March to May, when water levels change and weaken the ground.

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