Short Courses

Monday, September 22, 2008, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Choose among (3) full-day courses to expand your knowledge of practical applications of karst science.  Each course is $275.00 if you register by June 3, 2008.  To register in advance, visit the Registration Web page for registration fees.  Space is limited and registrations are processed on a first come, first served basis.  Onsite registrations will be accepted on a space-available basis. 

 

Short Course 1: Karst Hydrogeology: Concepts and Applications for Characterization & Modeling with Examples from the Floridian Aquifer

Instructor: Todd Kincaid, Group Leader, H2H Associates, LLC, Reno, NV

This course is designed for public and private professionals engaged in hydrogeological characterizations of karst aquifers. You will gain a process-oriented understanding of karst hydrogeology; how and why the assumptions underpinning standard well-based aquifer characterization approaches are inadequate, and an overview of characterization and groundwater modeling methods that produce reliable results. You’ll also learn about the design, benefits, and limitations of alternative characterization methods, including natural and artificial tracing and surface geophysical characterizations, along with recommendations for improved monitoring programs.  The course will then segue into an in-depth discussion of groundwater modeling in karst aquifers; the articulation of important karst hydrologic features, and the most important aspects of designing accurate groundwater flow simulations.  Examples from 3D Floridian aquifer models constructed with the finite-element modeling software FEFLOW™ will be presented along with a discussion of how similar results could be obtained with MODFLOW.  The course will conclude with an outline for rapid and effective karst aquifer characterizations and an open discussion of how the topics presented in the course relate to applied problems encountered by the participants.

 

Registration Fees: Visit the Registration Web page for registration fees.

 

Short Course 2: Geologic Site Characterization in a Karst Setting

Instructors: Lynn Yuhr, P.G., President of Technos, Inc., Miami, Florida

Ron Kaufmann, P.G., Vice President of Technos, Inc., Miami, Florida

Kelton Barr, P.G., Principal Hydrogeologist of Braun Intertec, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Mike Wilson, P.E., Ardaman & Associates, Inc., Tallahassee, Florida

Richard C. Benson, P.G., C.P.G., Sr. Engineering Geologist of Technos, Inc., Miami, Florida

Since site characterization is the technical foundation for all geotechnical and environmental projects, you’ll want to be involved in this most relevant topic.  The objective of a site characterization is to gain an understanding of subsurface conditions that will impact the engineering or environmental decisions made at a site. If the site characterization is done right, these decisions will be made with a high degree of confidence and be supported by reliable technical data.

This course is based upon an integrated approach to site characterization.  A wide range of topics will be covered from a discussion of the problem, a strategy, appropriate levels of site characterization, the impact of scale, the methods available, and case histories to illustrate the process.  All of the presenters have specialized in site characterization with an emphasis on karst and represent more than 130 years of diverse experience.

Registration Fees: Visit the Registration Web page for registration fees.

 

Short Course 3, Grouting for Geotechnical Support and Groundwater Control in Karst

Instructor: Michael Byle, P.E., F. ASCE, National Discipline Lead, Civil/Geotechnical Engineering for Tetra Tech EC, Langhorne, PA

This short course will provide an oversight of karst conditions and situations where grouting would be an appropriate method of stabilization or improvement for the support of structures and to control groundwater flows.  The course will provide an introduction to karst formation with a focus on geotechnical support and groundwater control applications including the potential difficulties for quarries, tunnels and other deep excavation and underground construction.  Karst features applicable to grouting including deep conduits, voids, sinkholes, enhanced weathered zones and pinnacles will be addressed.  Methods of investigation will be discussed that are appropriate to the location and detection of karst features for design of grouting mitigation. Investigation methods including geologic reconnaissance, air photo interpretation and geophysical methods will be discussed together with intrusive methods of investigation including borings, test excavations, and rock coring.  Case histories of application of these methods will be presented to illustrate the application of the techniques presented in the course.

Registration Fees: Visit the Registration Web page for registration fees.