The Selection and Application of Geophysical Test Methods in West Central Florida Karst Regions

Karst regions present some of the most challenging conditions for design of new and remediation of existing structures. Without the appreciation of the highly variable conditions that often typify karstic regions, expediential increases in site development costs can occur both during and after construction. Properly selected and applied geophysical tests can significantly reduce site "unknowns", allowing for better prediction of costs and better selection of appropriate foundations in the planning stage rather than during or after construction. Case studies are given for projects in west-central Florida that have used geophysical tests to provide early information on subsurface conditions allowing optimization of site use and foundation design.