Upper Floridan and Biscayne Aquifers
Sinkholes from subsidence event, Florida, February 1998. Over 700 sinkholes formed over a 20-acre area in response to well drilling. A well had been drilled about 20 feet into a cavity,
when air-lift well-development methods began being used. Immediately after, small sinkholes started appearing in the surrounding
area. Subsidence continued for several hours, with sinkholes closest to the well expanding to become the largest in the area. (Photo by Ann Tihansky)
Photos of Karst Features
Karst produces distinctive topographic features that can be prominent and distinctive. There are photographs available of the following karst features in the Upper Floridan and Biscayne aquifers:
- Sinkholes
- In-Stream Sinkholes
Featured Publications
- Florea, L.J., Cunningham, K.J., and Altobelli, S. (2009) NMR imaging of fluid exchange between macropores and matrix in eogenetic karst: Ground Water, vol. 47, iss. 3, p. 382-390.
- Metz, P.A., and Lewelling, B.R. (2009) Hydrologic conditions that influence streamflow losses in a karst region of the upper Peace River, Polk County, Florida: USGS Scientific Investigations Report 2009-5140, 82 p.
- Shapiro, A.M., Renken, R.A., Harvey, R.W., Zygnerski, M.R., and Metge, D.W. (2008) Pathogen and chemical transport in the karst limestone of the Biscayne aquifer--2. Chemical retention from diffusion and slow advection: Water Resources Research, vol. 44, p. #W08430.
Helpful Contacts
There are 2 USGS scientists you can contact for more information about this aquifer.
