AN INVESTIGATION INTO MULTIPLE SUBAQUIFERS AND THE HYDROLOGIC DYNAMICS IN HIDDEN RIVER CAVE, HORSE CAVE, KY

This study focuses on the hydrological dynamics of Hidden River Cave in Horse Cave, Kentucky, a model karst landscape characterized by intricate flow paths and complex hydrodynamics. Employing advanced dye tracing techniques, the research identifies and hypothesizes various flow paths within the cave’s hydraulic system, elucidating the critical interactions between the towns infrastructure, sinkholes, contaminants, and the cave's hydrology. The cave, lying 125 feet beneath the town, is primarily fed by the East River and South River (Whiskey River), which converge at the cave's entrance located in the middle of town. Flow patterns predominantly follow a North and Northeast trajectory due to higher elevations, natural shelves, and a boarding western groundwater basin. Recharge points for the cave were investigated on both the west and east sides of Horse Cave. Potential recharge sites include a sinkhole on the west, hypothesized to feed what is known as the “Jingle” Bell passage, and a prominent sinkhole in a residential area on the east, likely supplying the East River. Through ground truthing surveys and GIS mapping, the study also identifies storm drain locations that integrate into the cave system, providing a comprehensive understanding of the town’s storm drain infrastructure. The findings will reveal significant insights into the hydrological dynamics of Hidden River Cave, informing targeted mitigation strategies for managing flood risks, controlling pollution, and protecting groundwater resources. Despite the study’s limitations, such as potential oversight of the cave's complexity and temporal variations, the research underscores the indispensable role of dye tracing in hydrogeology and environmental science. The results advocate for continued exploration of karst landscapes to proactively address environmental challenges, ensuring the sustainable coexistence of human communities and delicate ecosystems. Future research should emphasize quantitative dye tracing, subsurface connectivity mapping, and modeling efforts to further refine our understanding and management of karst systems.