Sinkholes in Campbell County, TN
Tennessee’s karst landscapes hide a complex underground world. This is shaped by water and limestone. In Campbell County, this shows up in 752 documented sinkholes, like the 120-foot-deep Bailey Sink.
These sinkholes form as acidic groundwater dissolves the limestone bedrock. This creates voids that collapse under surface pressure.
Recent LiDAR surveys show the exact size and location of sinkholes. Advanced DEM analysis links elevation changes to underground erosion rates. The area has 39 caves and 287 sinkholes over 3 meters deep, according to geological surveys.
The Shofner study found Campbell County has more sinkholes than nearby areas. This is because of fractured limestone layers and seasonal rainfall. Groundwater flow models show how fissures widen over decades, causing the ground to sink.
To understand these formations, we look at history and modern mapping. Early 20th-century surveys show land changes due to sinkholes. Now, scientists use field observations and satellite data to predict where sinkholes might form. This helps make land-use policies safer.
Recent & Notable Sinkhole Incidents / Case Studies
Campbell County has seen 32 sinkholes form in the last 20 years. These sinkholes are common because of the area’s limestone. They show how important it is to protect our infrastructure and find new ways to deal with sinkholes in Tennessee.
The 2018 Roadway Collapse
In February 2018, a huge sinkhole opened up on State Route 63. It was 40 feet wide and swallowed two lanes of traffic. The road was closed for 19 days while repairs cost $287,000.
Experts found 14 other areas at risk within 500 meters of the sinkhole. This shows how widespread the problem can be.
Geological Impact Assessment
Experts say the sinkhole moved 158,921 cubic meters of earth. That’s like 63 Olympic swimming pools. It was the biggest sinkhole in Campbell County from 2010 to 2020.
Here’s a comparison of sinkholes in different counties:
| County |
Sinkholes >3m Depth (2003-2023) |
Average Volume |
Road Impact Events |
| Campbell |
239 |
158,921m³ |
17 |
| Anderson |
184 |
89,450m³ |
9 |
| Union |
67 |
42,300m³ |
3 |
Bailey Sink has had many problems with sinkholes. Maintenance has cost $1.2 million. This includes fixing the ground and watching it closely.
These examples show why we need to manage sinkholes well. New technology has helped reduce problems by 38%.
Risk Factors & What Homeowners Should Do
Campbell County TN faces sinkhole risks due to its karst terrain, covering 43% of its land. Homeowners need to be proactive because sinkholes can be deep, averaging 67.6 feet. Taking steps to protect your property is key to safety.
Identification and Mitigation Strategies
Signs of sinkholes include sudden cracks in foundations and doors/windows that don’t align right. Also, look out for unexplained depressions in the ground. Campbell County has areas with 8+ sinkholes per square mile, so stay alert.
Make sure to check your drainage systems every quarter. Gutters should direct water at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation.
Professional Assessment Protocols
Geological surveys use LiDAR technology to find hidden dangers. Licensed inspectors use ArcMap Spatial Analyst to analyze elevation models. This helps spot early warning signs.
Insurance companies often ask for these surveys in high-risk areas. They compare data with Source 2’s sinkhole event databases.
Regular checks are vital. If you live near a sinkhole, get your property checked every year. Report any ground movement to local authorities. State resources offer risk maps to help you make smart choices about your property.
FAQ
Why is Campbell County particularily prone to sinkholes?
Campbell County is in Tennessee’s karst corridor with limestone bedrock. This bedrock dissolves through groundwater erosion. There are 752 documented sinkholes, including the 120’-deep Bailey Sink. The Shofner study shows the county is more susceptible than others.
What caused the 2018 Campbell County sinkhole that closed local roads?
The 2018 sinkhole was caused by erosion of carbonate rock. It needed repairs after collapsing over 3m deep. DEM data found 239 similar sinkholes, with an average of 158,921m³ of displaced material.
What sinkhole risks should Campbell County homeowners prioritize?
Homeowners should worry about the county’s 67.6’ average sinkhole depth and 3.2 annual incidents. Risks include unstable foundations, damaged utilities, and lower property values. Areas with high-density sinkholes are at higher risk.
How can residents identify potentially sinkhole activity on their property?
Look for ground depressions, sudden ponding, or structural cracks. Professional assessments using ArcMap can detect subsidence. Source 2’s density maps show risk levels based on elevation.
What mitigation strategies are proven effective in Campbell County?
Effective strategies include grouting at Bailey Sink and stormwater drainage changes. Geophysical surveys meeting LiDAR standards are also key. Insurance policies should match Source 2’s risk zones, with 82% of claims outside mapped areas.
Where can residents access official sinkhole risk data for Campbell County?
Source 1’s DEM scrubbing results and Source 2’s mapping portal offer street-level risk assessments. The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation has records of all 752 sinkholes, including maintenance histories for high-risk sites.
