Hazardous material spills (illicit discharges) in karst country require quick response and coordination to realize any opportunity for contaminant recovery. Once a hazardous material has entered the cave system, recovery is no longer an option and new dangers are presented. Bowling Green Kentucky is reliant on karst formations (caves) as an integral part of its storm sewer system. In 2019, gasoline vapors escaping the karst system in Bowling Green, KY closed a tourist attraction and forced people from their homes. This case study explores who the key players were and analyzes the response. We conclude with what we learned and how we’ve prepared for the next event.
Learning Objectives:
identify the terms used to discuss stormater and pollutant movement through karst systems.
recognize hazards to stormwater conveyance systems from industrial/commerical bulk storage locations.
begin preparing a response plan in their own community for similar events.
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