Sizing up sinkholes: science and technology to mitigate karst hazards

Sinkholes have engulfed entire homes, sewer systems, and eight classic cars from the National Corvette Museum. However, with the help of science and technology, communities are developing solutions to the challenges of living in areas prone to sinkholes. These areas, also known as karst landscapes, cover more than one-fifth of the United States and can pose risks to lives and property.  

At this widely attended briefing, experts will address the following questions:

1. How can we better understand our vulnerability to sinkholes?
    
2. How can communities identify sinkhole risks?
    
3. How can communities make informed planning, response, and mitigation decisions to ensure the safety of lives and property?

Moderator

• Dr. Mona Becker
  Assistant Professor, Environmental Studies, McDaniel College
  City Common Council Member, Westminster, Maryland

Speakers

1. Dr. Daniel Doctor
   Research Geologist, U.S. Geological Survey
2. Dr. Cathleen Jones
   Systems Engineer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA
3. Dr. Jonathan Arthur
   Florida State Geologist, Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Sponsors

Senator Lisa Murkowski
Senator Maria Cantwell
Representative Suzan DelBene

Supported by

American Geosciences Institute
American Geophysical Union
Association of American State Geologists

http://www.hazardscaucus.org/