CLASSIFICATION OF KARST TERRAIN IN MISSOURI USING PSEUDOSPECTRAL ANALYSIS

Classification of karst terrain is a challenging problem. Many proposed classification schemes rely heavily on subjective information or objective data that may not be available. To address the need for statistical correlation of soil-cover collapse formation, karst areas in Missouri were modeled using a pseudospectral technique. Pseudospectral analysis uses multispectral methods to examine continuous raster datasets derived from discrete spatial data. Results of this analysis reveal distinct regions of recharge, transport, and discharge. Recharge regions—where surface water enters the subsurface—are modeled as distinct areas of upland recharge and valley recharge. Transport regions are those areas dominated by subsurface karst development such as caves and fissures. Areas dominated by springs are classified as discharge regions. Having a statistically correlated method for classifying karst terrain provides an objective basis for further model development including the development of soil-cover collapse development.