Karst Geomorphology at Moira River, Ontario

Abstract

<p> This is the first study of the karst features found at Moira River karst. This study intends to investigate a number of different karst features of the area rather than concentrating on one highly specific problem. Hopefully this will enable the reader to appreciate the wide diversity of karst able to form within a small area such as Moira karst.</p> <p> The variation in karst features encountered at Moira River ranged from a relatively rare form of karst, called a draped karst, to dissolution patterns (scallops), found within a cave. The draped karst dominates much of the area and is formed by the preferential removal of thin, recessive limestone beds. The overlying, massive bedded unit remains and is "draped" over an underlying massive unit.</p> <p> The river plays a dominant role in the formation of karst features at Moira Karst. It floods quite frequently as evidenced by the number of runoff channels found in the area. The caves at Moira River karst have developed as a short cut across a bend in the river and are fully inundated when the river reaches high flow rates. Karst development does not extend much beyond a range of 300 m from either bank of the river and is concentrated on the east side of the river.</p>