Gypsum dissolution geohazards at Ripon, North Yorkshire, UK

Abstract

This guide is for a one-day field excursion to examine gypsum dissolution geohazards at Ripon in North Yorkshire. Gypsum is a highly soluble rock and under suitable groundwater flow conditions it can dissolve forming caves and karstic features including collapse and suffosion dolines. These have the capability of causing subsidence damage of the type that affects much of the Ripon area. The guide details the processes involved, the localities visited and some of the remedial measures undertaken.