Element Definition
Karst terrain is defined as areas underlain by soluble carbonate bedrock (such as limestone or dolomite) where dissolution processes have produced characteristic landforms. For this element, karst terrain includes only areas identified and delineated as karst or karst-prone in authoritative geologic and hydrogeologic datasets compiled by state or federal agencies. Areas without mapped karst features or karst-prone geology are not included.
Mapped Feature Description
This element is displayed as polygon features representing areas identified as karst terrain or karst-prone regions in Illinois. The polygons reflect regional-scale delineations based on bedrock geology, known karst features, and hydrogeologic interpretation as provided in the source datasets at the time of publication. The map does not depict individual sinkholes, caves, conduits, subsurface voids, or groundwater flow paths beyond the mapped karst extent.
Source: Illinois Sinkhole Areas
Suitability Classifications
See how to use suitability classifications.
| Classification | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Less Suitable | N/A |
| Suitable | N/A |
| More Suitable | Within |
| Most Suitable | Outside |
| More Information Needed | N/A |