Geologist Cautiously Reads the Oxford Sinkhole

A regional geologist with the Department of Energy and Mines says there are all kinds of sinkholes near Oxford. Amy Tizzard says they happen naturally but out of sight, not like the hole at the Oxford Lions Park.

Tizzard is spending her days at the park, monitoring any movement or cracking in the area.

She is very cautious in choosing her words and will not make any predictions. The geologist says we can only observe and wait, till we gather enough information before making any firm decisions.

Unlike sinkholes in areas of former mines or underground construction sites, which occurred by human interference, Tizzard says, "Not very many people have actually seen one of these developing, so we are learning as we go." She added, "As long as we see additional propagation cracks in the ground, we know this thing isn't done."

There has been very little activity in the hole, over the past week, other than a subtle rise in the water level, which officials attribute to debris falling into the sinkhole. 

They also report there were no new cracks discovered in the last 36 hours.