Sinkholes in Grundy County, TN | Tennessee Sinkholes

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Sinkholes in Grundy County, TN | Tennessee Sinkholes

Grundy County, TN Sinkhole Map

Sinkhole Count: 79

Grundy County, TN FAQs

  • was established in 1844
  • named after Felix Grundy, a prominent lawyer and U.S. Senator from Tennessee. 
  • originally part of land ceded by the Cherokee Nation in the 1819 Treaty of Washington
  • was primarily rural and known for its agricultural and mining activities, particularly coal mining in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
  • has a rich cultural heritage, including Appalachian folk traditions and a history of coal mining and labor struggles
  • was established in 1844
  • named after Felix Grundy, a prominent lawyer and U.S. Senator from Tennessee. 
  • originally part of land ceded by the Cherokee Nation in the 1819 Treaty of Washington
  • was primarily rural and known for its agricultural and mining activities, particularly coal mining in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
  • has a rich cultural heritage, including Appalachian folk traditions and a history of coal mining and labor struggles

Notable Landmarks in Grundy County, TN

  1. South Cumberland State Park
    • a popular outdoor recreation area that spans across Grundy County and neighboring counties
    • features scenic gorges, waterfalls, rock formations, and hiking trails, including the popular Fiery Gizzard Trail and the Savage Gulf Day Loop
  2. Grundy Forest
    • located within South Cumberland State Park
    • a preserved old-growth forest that provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of the Cumberland Plateau
    • features towering trees, moss-covered boulders, and serene hiking trails
  3. Foster Falls
    • a 60-foot waterfall 
    • located within South Cumberland State Park
    • a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking
    • offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area
  4. Monteagle Sunday School Assembly
    • a historic Chautauqua located in Monteagle, a town in Grundy Count
    • was established in 1882 as a gathering place for education, culture, and recreation
    •  has a long history of hosting lectures, concerts, and other events
  5. Tracy City Historic District
    • a town in Grundy County known for its historic district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
    • includes well-preserved examples of Victorian architecture, including homes and commercial buildings, and provides a glimpse into the town’s history
  6. High Point Restaurant and Lounge
    • a historic landmark located atop Monteagle Mountain in Grundy County
    • Established in 1929
    • known for its scenic views, rustic charm, and southern cuisine
    • has been a popular destination for travelers and locals alike for many decades
  1. Hiking: Grundy County is home to several scenic hiking trails, including the Fiery Gizzard Trail and the Savage Gulf Day Loop, which are part of the South Cumberland State Park. These trails offer opportunities for hiking through scenic gorges, lush forests, and along waterfalls, providing hikers with stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
  2. Rock Climbing: The cliffs and rock formations in Grundy County, particularly in South Cumberland State Park, offer opportunities for rock climbing. There are designated climbing areas such as Foster Falls, which is a popular spot for climbers of various skill levels.
  3. Camping: Grundy County has multiple campgrounds within the South Cumberland State Park that offer camping options, including tent camping and RV camping. The park provides facilities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, making it a convenient destination for camping enthusiasts.
  4. Water Recreation: Grundy County has rivers, creeks, and waterfalls that provide opportunities for water-based recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and paddling. Foster Falls, with its waterfall and plunge pool, is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking during warmer months.
  5. Scenic Drives: The mountainous terrain of Grundy County offers scenic drives with breathtaking views. Monteagle Mountain, in particular, has scenic drives that take you through stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains, making it a popular destination for road trips.
  6. Wildlife Viewing: Grundy County is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, turkey, black bear, and various bird species. Wildlife viewing is possible in South Cumberland State Park and other natural areas, offering opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the local flora and fauna.
  7. Photography: The natural beauty and picturesque landscapes of Grundy County offer opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning photos of waterfalls, cliffs, forests, and other scenic spots

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Sinkholes in Grundy County, TN

Tennessee’s karst terrain poses unique geological risks, like in Grundy County. This area is in a fragile limestone corridor. Water erosion and bedrock composition lead to frequent sinkholes.

A 2013 digital elevation study found 36 major depressions in the county. Three of these were over 100 feet deep. They were linked to underground voids formed over millennia.

Recent studies show how limestone dissolution shapes these landscapes. Researchers like Shofner and Sutherland used advanced modeling to map sinkhole clusters. They found these clusters align with regional fault lines.

Such studies help explain why infrastructure projects need careful planning. For example, a hauling incident nearly triggered a collapse near Coffee County in 2021.

While natural processes drive most formations, human activity can speed up instability. Road construction and groundwater extraction are key factors in sinkhole development. Local authorities now use monitoring systems and bedrock assessments to reduce risks.

This analysis looks at the science behind Grundy County’s sinkhole risk. It covers historical case studies and prevention methods. It shows why knowing karst dynamics is important for residents and planners.

Recent & Notable Sinkhole Incidents / Case Studies

Grundy County has seen seven sinkhole events from 2003 to now. Three of these needed quick fixes to the infrastructure. The biggest one happened on May 12, 2021, when a huge hole opened up under Interstate 24 near Pelham.

Crews dug 35 feet of unstable ground and filled it with 800 tons of limestone and mesh. This cost $2.1 million and took a lot of work.

This project needed:

  • 72-hour road closure with detour coordination across three counties
  • Real-time ground-penetrating radar monitoring
  • Post-remediation slope stabilization using polymer injections

Grundy County’s sinkholes are unique compared to others in Tennessee. The 2021 incident was a big problem for traffic. But, Dykes Sink near Altamont is also very important.

It was found in 2018 by the Tennessee Division of Geology. This sinkhole is 156 feet deep, making it the second-deepest in the state.

Other big events include:

  • 2007: A 22-foot-wide hole near Tracy City schools (no injuries)
  • 2015: A new 48-foot depression was created by changing groundwater flow
  • 2023: A section of Highway 50 sank, needing asphalt fixes

After the 2021 incident, new rules were made. Now, Grundy County checks for sinkholes every quarter. They use drones and special tools to find problems early.

Risk Factors & What Homeowners Should Do

Grundy County TN faces special challenges because of the ground beneath it. About 20% of Tennessee has areas where sinkholes can form. These areas have many formations, making them prone to sinkholes.

Homeowners need to watch for signs like the ground sinking, changes in well water, and cracks in foundations. These signs can mean trouble.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has rules for fixing sinkholes quickly. They say to report any sinkhole or pavement problems right away. You can check sinkhole risk maps to see if your area is at risk before buying a home.

Insurance claims for sinkholes in Grundy County need proof from experts. This is because of state laws about showing the ground’s condition.

To avoid sinkholes, keep your yard dry and don’t let water collect near your house. Insurance companies offer extra coverage for sinkholes, but it costs more. They need to know about the ground’s condition first.

If you see plants dying in circles or new ponds, call a geotechnical engineer. Acting fast can help protect your property in Grundy County’s sinkhole areas.

FAQ

Why does Grundy County have so many sinkholes?

Grundy County is in Tennessee’s karst area. This area has soluble limestone that water can erode. A 2013 DEM analysis found 36 big depressions, with three over 100 feet deep. This matches Dr. Scott F. Sutherland’s research and Shofner’s studies on karst dynamics.

What was the most significant sinkhole event in recent Grundy County history?

In May 2021, a sinkhole closed the interstate. It was 35 feet deep. To fix it, they used solid rock and a special mesh, following TDOT’s rules. This shows the danger of sinkholes in Grundy County, near Dykes Sink, the second-deepest in Tennessee.

What warning signs indicate potentially sinkhole activity?

Look for cracks in foundations or pavement, sudden changes in well water, and circular spots in plants. The Tennessee Geological Survey says to get a professional check with LiDAR and Schmidt hammer tests if you see these signs.

Are homeowners insurance policies required to cover sinkhole damage in Grundy County?

Tennessee law requires disclosing geological hazards, but sinkhole coverage is optional. Check your policy and look at TDOT’s 2021 repair guide for building standards. Always get a geotechnical check before buying a property in a high-risk area.

How does Grundy County’s sinkhole risk compare to other Tennessee regions?

Tennessee has 15% karst terrain, but Grundy County is more at risk. Its deep limestone and drainage make it more prone to sinkholes. The county has more sinkholes than other areas, with 42% more than nearby counties, according to 2020 USGS data.
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