Triggering Mechanisms for Sinkholes

Dealing with the engineering issues associated with karst collapse features requires an understanding of the sinkhole development process including an understanding of the mechanisms that trigger sinkhole collapse. Sinkhole collapse is often thought of as a natural process. However, collapse can be triggered by either natural conditions or man’s activities and is often a complex combination of both. If we can gain an understanding of the likely triggering mechanisms, we can possibly avoid areas of potential collapse, design around it or at least minimize its impact.