Sinkholes open in Alachua County

Several sinkholes have opened up in Alachua County.

The sinkholes are on a private property in the Jonesville area. They vary in size and at least three are visible from the fence at the property line.

The largest of the sinkholes is located on the edge of a retention pond. Alachua County Environmental Protection Director Chris Bird told Action News it was created by heavy rainfall.

Bird said the property owners will be required by state law to fix the sinkhole because it is located in a drainage basin. He said the property owners are cooperating.

People who work in the area tell Action News the large sinkhole and the one adjacent to it have been on the property for about a month and have been growing in size. They say the third sinkhole opened up over the weekend following heavy rain on Thursday and Friday.

The employee said other sinkholes on the property have been filled in over the past few months.

Action News tried to speak with the property owner, but he would not go on camera and would not say what he plans to do about the sinkholes.