EPIKARST ZONE

   ; epikarst zone

   A relatively thick (the thickness may vary significantly, but 15 to 30 meters thick is a good generalization) portion of bedrock that extends from the base of the soil zone and is characterized by extreme fracturing and enhanced solution. It is separated from the phreatic zone by an inactive, relatively waterless interval of bedrock that is locally breached by vadose percolation. Significant water storage and transport are known to occur in this zone.

   Synonym: subcutaneous zone.