RETENTION BASIN FAILURES IN CARBONATE TERRANES¹

Abstract

Sinkholes and subsidence in areas subject to dewatering of carbonate formations have been documented in several geologic and hydrologic investigations. Excessive ground‐water pumpage has been cited as a causative factor in areas of increased sinkhole activity. Subsurface erosion of unconsolidated materials underlain by carbonate rocks is one cause of the collapses. Infiltrating water from retention basins may cause subsurface erosion and eventual failure by collapse of the structure. The resulting ground‐water contamination would be great as the pollutants spread throughout the solution‐cavity system.

Development of sinkholes resulting from man's activities in the Eastern United States

“…Because of their relation to man's water activities, recent collapses are common beneath sewers, storm drains, and sewage and industrial process impoundments. Collapses and the draining of sewage lagoons into underlying aquifers have been reported in Alabama (Warren, 1974) and in Missouri, where effluent reappeared in S:'1rings and wells located as much as 1.5 miles from the source (Aley and others, 1972). In one area ir Birmingham, Ala., nearby streams were affectEC- gallons per day of raw sewage into streams for more than 3 months while repairs to the sewer were made (Newton and Hyde, 1971).…”

“…If the impoundment is located where the water table is naturally below the top of bedrock and openings at the surface are connected with those in bedrock, a collapse can result from the piping process. Collapses due to saturation and piping causing the draining of sewage treatment ponds in Alabama have been described by Warren (1974). One of these is shown in figure 25.…”