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Originally published in 1989 with the title Karst Geomorphology and Hydrology, this book became the leading textbook on karst studies. This new textbook has been substantially revised and updated.
The first half of Karst Hydrogeology and Geomorphology is a systematic presentation of the dissolution kinetics, chemical equilibria and physical flow laws relating to karst environments. It includes details of the many environmental factors that complicate their chemical evolution, with a critique of measurement of karst erosion rates. The second half of the book looks at the classification system for cave systems and the influence of climate and climatic change on karst development. The book ends with chapters on karst water resource management and a look at the important issues of environmental management, including environmental impact assessment, environmental rehabilitation, tourism impacts and conservation values. Practical application of karst studies are explained throughout the text.
Preface
Acknowledgements
Chapter 1. Introduction to karst
Chapter 2. The karst rocks
Chapter 3. Dissolution: Chemical and kinetic behaviour of the karst rocks
Chapter 4. Distribution and rate of karst denudation
Chapter 5. Karst hydrology
Chapter 6. Analysis of karst drainage systems
Chapter 7. Speleogenesis: The development of cave systems
Chapter 8. Cave interior deposits
Chapter 9. Karst landform development in humid regions
Chapter 10. The influence of climate, climatic change and other environmental factors on karst development
Chapter 11. Karst water resources management
Chapter 12. Human impacts and environmental rehabilitation
References
Index
"This new edition strengthens the book's position as the essential reference in the field. Karst geoscientists will not dare to stray beyond arm's reach of this volume. It is certain to remain the professional standard for many decades."
– Journal of Cave and Karst Studies, August 2007
"Derek Ford and Paul Williams have produced another magisterial overview of the exciting world karst which should be found in a prominent position on the bookshelf [...] . It sets the standard as the definitive guide to karst studies, and should be a highly useful source of reference both for those new to karst and for karst experts for many years to come."
– Zeitschrift fur Geomorphologie, December 2008
"The scope of coverage is quite significant and the reference is astounding – it is amazing to see how much material is contained within a 562-page monograph."
– Choice, March 2008
