Monroe County Sinkhole, TN

Eastern Tennessee’s landscape has a hidden story beneath its surface. The area sits on top of soluble carbonate rock layers that dissolve over time. This creates karst formations, sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage systems.

Recent studies found 306 significant depressions using digital elevation mapping. There are also 695 documented subsurface voids and surface openings. These features are found along bedrock fracture zones, as shown in Shofner’s 2001 bedrock maps and Sutherland’s LiDAR studies.

Tennessee is among the top U.S. states for sinkhole activity, with over 54,000 reported. Monroe County’s geology mirrors broader trends seen in Tennessee sinkhole hotspots. Limestone and dolomite layers dominate here. Knowing these formations helps predict ground stability risks and informs land-use planning.

Researchers use advanced tools like DEM analysis to map hidden voids before surface collapses. This is key in areas where farming and urban development meet fragile karst systems. The data shows the balance between natural processes and human activity in shaping vulnerable landscapes.

Recent & Notable Sinkhole Incidents / Case Studies

Monroe County in Tennessee has seen a lot of sinkhole activity recently. Over 20 years, 18% of sinkholes were over 3 meters deep. This shows how the ground can change a lot.

The county ranks 14th in Tennessee for sinkholes. There are 306 sinkholes covering 0.6779km². This shows how common sinkholes are in the area.

Documented Monroe County Sinkhole Events

Sinkholes in Monroe County often happen because of erosion. A 2021 study found that 94.2% of sinkholes are over 30 meters deep. This shows how water keeps moving underground.

Unlike White County, Monroe County’s sinkholes often hit homes. This is because of how the ground is structured.

Shortfoot’s Natural Bridge Sinkhole Pond

This sinkhole has a natural limestone arch over a pond. It was first seen in 2008. It shows how dolomite dissolution can create unique landscapes.

The water level in the pond changes with the seasons. This change is linked to how much rain falls in the area.

Monroe County sinkholes have some key features:

• Average depth: 28.7 meters (94.2 feet)
• Primary formation triggers: Heavy precipitation, clay layer erosion
• High-risk zones: Areas with shallow bedrock (

Risk Factors & What Homeowners Should Do

Monroe County’s karst terrain poses unique geological risks. Homeowners need to take proactive steps. They must balance following rules with practical safety measures to protect against sinkholes.

Preventive Land Management

Before building, geological surveys are key. They must follow Montgomery County’s 60ft buffer rule around karst areas. Groundwater monitoring wells track subsurface changes.

Elevation mapping with 10m DEM data spots ground shifts early. This is done by comparing elevation marks annually.

Insurance and Legal Protections

Tennessee law (T.C.A. §56-7-130) requires sinkhole coverage in homeowner policies. Yet, only 23% of Monroe County properties have this. Keeping land stability reports can help with insurance claims.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation must be notified for sinkholes over 16ft deep or near infrastructure.

Emergency steps include roping off sudden depressions and calling TDEC’s Division of Geology at (615) 532-1501. Regular checks on foundations and drainage systems lower erosion risks. Always check if contractors are licensed before starting sinkhole repair work.

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