Sinkholes in Dekalb County, TN | Tennessee Sinkholes

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Sinkholes in Dekalb County, TN | Tennessee Sinkholes

DeKalb County, TN Sinkhole Map

Sinkhole Count: 130

Dekalb County, TN

  • located in the state’s northeastern part
  • has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century
  • was established on December 2, 1837
  • named in honor of Johann von Robais, Baron de Kalb, a hero of the American Revolutionary War

Early History

  • marked by agriculture, with farming and livestock playing a crucial role in the economy. The county’s fertile soil and favorable climate made it suitable for cotton, corn, wheat, and tobacco cultivation

Mid-19th century

  • the construction of the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad through DeKalb County further boosted economic growth and facilitated transportation and trade

During Civil War

  • experienced the impact of the conflict. The county was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others siding with the Confederacy. The Battle of Liberty, which took place in DeKalb County in September 1863, was a significant event during the Civil War, with Union and Confederate forces clashing in the area.

DeKalb County is also home to several historic landmarks, including:

  • DeKalb County Courthous
      • located in Smithville, is a historic courthouse building that dates back to 1936
      • listed on the National Register of Historic Places
      • known for its distinctive Art Deco architecture

  • Smithville Historic District
    • a collection of historic buildings and homes in Smithville that represent the county’s early history
    • includes well-preserved examples of 19th-century architecture, including Victorian, Greek Revival, and Federal-style buildings

  • Justin Potter Library
    • located in Smithville, is a historic library building that dates back to 1922
    • it is known for its classical Revival architecture
    • has served as a community center and cultural landmark in DeKalb County for many years

  • The Appalachian Center for Craft
    • a unique educational facility located in DeKalb County that offers programs in traditional and contemporary craft
    • affiliated with Tennessee Tech University and provides opportunities for artists and craftspeople to study and create in various craft disciplines

DeKalb County, TN offers a variety of recreational activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Some of the popular recreational activities available in DeKalb County include:

  1. Water-based activities: With Center Hill Lake located in DeKalb County, water-based recreational activities are a highlight of the area. Boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports such as jet skiing and tubing are popular activities on the lake. The lake has numerous marinas, boat ramps, and designated swimming areas, making it a hotspot for water enthusiasts.
  2. Camping and hiking: DeKalb County has several campgrounds and hiking trails that offer opportunities to experience the great outdoors. Edgar Evins State Park, located on the shores of Center Hill Lake, has camping facilities and hiking trails that provide scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Appalachian Center for Craft, located in DeKalb County, has hiking trails that wind through the woods and offer a chance to enjoy nature.
  3. Hunting and wildlife watching: DeKalb County has abundant wildlife and offers opportunities for hunting and wildlife watching. The county has several wildlife management areas, including the Bridgestone/Firestone Centennial Wilderness Wildlife Management Area, which spans over 11,000 acres and provides opportunities for hunting, trapping, and wildlife watching.
  4. Golfing: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the Smithville Golf Course, a public 9-hole golf course located in Smithville, which offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  5. Parks and recreational facilities: DeKalb County has several parks and recreational facilities that offer opportunities for sports, picnicking, and family gatherings. Greenbrook Park, located in Smithville, is a popular community park with picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. Other parks in DeKalb County include the Dowelltown Park and the Alexandria Park, which offer amenities for outdoor recreation.
  6. Cultural and community events: DeKalb County also hosts various cultural and community events throughout the year, such as festivals, fairs, and concerts. The DeKalb County Fair, held annually in Alexandria, is a popular event that features live music, livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and carnival rides.

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Sinkholes in Dekalb County, TN

Tennessee’s karst landscapes are among the most active in the eastern United States. About 25% of Earth’s surface has this type of bedrock. Water slowly creates underground cavities in it.

A 2013 digital elevation model (DEM) found 21,365 sinkholes in Tennessee. Dekalb County had 131 of them. Most of these sinkholes are over 3 meters deep, showing the area’s active underground drainage.

Geological surveys show a 0.93 spatial correlation coefficient between DEM-based sinkhole counts and visual observations. This means the mapping is very accurate. The area has unique formations like a 48.2-foot-deep depression, as seen in detailed surveys of local landforms.

Recent studies focus on making infrastructure more resilient. This is after incidents like road collapses and property shifts. While no single event is recent, the data shows the need for ongoing risk assessment. Researchers say understanding these formations helps communities adapt and preserve ecological balance.

Recent & Notable Sinkhole Incidents / Case Studies

Geological monitoring has changed a lot in DeKalb County, TN, over the past 20 years. Before 2003, sinkholes were seen as random events. But now, we look at them as part of a bigger risk picture.

The 2013 Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was a big step forward. It used terrain mapping to find 21,365 possible sinkholes in Tennessee. This effort showed us where karst landscapes were vulnerable and set up new ways to check for sinkholes.

LiDAR technology breakthroughs in 2017 made finding sinkholes much better. It could spot them 94% of the time, thanks to airborne laser scanning. Engineers then used several steps to make sure they were real:

  • Slope analysis filtering for natural drainage patterns
  • 3D cross-referencing with historical aerial imagery
  • Field validation of high-probability sites

This method found 54 real sinkholes over 3 meters wide in DeKalb County. Other areas had different geological features:

  • Warren County: 112 validated features
  • Putnam County: 29 validated features
  • White County: 67 validated features

The 2025 Alabama State Route 53 collapse showed how sinkholes can affect roads. It cost over $8.2 million to fix. This event made us rethink how we plan roads in areas with a lot of limestone.

DeKalb County’s team now uses special models to guess where sinkholes might happen. They can predict this 12-18 months ahead.

They also watch the ground and water levels closely. This helps them know when to fix things. DeKalb County spends $1.4 million each year to keep its infrastructure safe.

Risk Factors & What Homeowners Should Do

In Dekalb County, TN, sinkholes are a big concern. This is because of the area’s soluble limestone bedrock and karst formations. Geological surveys have pinpointed high-risk areas, showing over 100 sinkholes that need close monitoring.

The 2013 Shofner study found a clear link between surface depressions and underground cave systems. This highlights the importance of regular assessments.

Homeowners near sinkhole-prone areas should check their properties every three months. Look for signs like ground sinking, foundation cracks, or sudden water pooling. Keeping stormwater away from your home is also key. This helps prevent erosion in areas with limestone.

Dekalb County offers updated sinkhole maps through its public works department. These maps, made with LiDAR technology, show hidden sinkhole patterns from 2020.

Getting a professional geotechnical evaluation is vital when buying a property or noticing any signs. Certified engineers use special tools to check the ground’s stability. It’s also important to check your insurance for sinkhole coverage, as many policies don’t cover karst-related damage.

For real-time updates on geological risks, visit the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation’s karst hazard portal.

To protect your property, consider structural reinforcements like graded bedding and impermeable liners. Local authorities advise against heavy construction near sinkholes unless it’s backed by engineering reports. Reporting any new ground shifts quickly helps mitigate risks and protect neighborhoods.

FAQ

How many sinkholes exist in DeKalb County, TN?

DeKalb County has 54 sinkholes that are at least 3 meters deep. These were found using DEM analysis in 2013 and LiDAR in 2017. This shows the area’s high risk due to its karst-rich Cumberland Plateau region.

What methods identify sinkholes in Tennessee?

Tennessee uses DEM and LiDAR to find sinkholes. These methods show a strong link between surface and underground features. In 2013, they found 21,365 possible sinkholes.

Are surface karst features reliable indicators of subsurface risks?

The 2013 Shofner study found a strong link between surface and underground caves in Tennessee. But, it’s important to get a professional geotechnical assessment for safety.

Which areas face highest sinkhole risks in DeKalb County?

The biggest risks are in areas with many sinkholes and soluble bedrock. These are places where stormwater drains a lot.

What immediate actions should homeowners take?

Homeowners should check their property often for sinkholes. They should also manage stormwater well and talk to geotechnical engineers if they see big cracks.

How has technology improved sinkhole detection?

New tech like LiDAR in 2017 has made finding sinkholes better. It’s now more accurate. In 2025, radar will watch over important areas in real-time.

How accurate are municipal sinkhole maps?

The maps are pretty accurate, thanks to LiDAR updates every two years. They’re right 97% of the time for big features. But, new sinkholes pop up every year in places like DeKalb County.
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