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obviously demands a review of certain existing approaches to evaluation of risk associated with geologicengineering processes. As a rule, such an evaluation is one of the basic results of engineering surveys. This also applies to karstic (karst-suffosion) processes and to corresponding classifications of terrains based on the character and extent of the danger (risk) of the development of some negative situations associated with different karst manifestations. These classifications are required, above all, in adopting decisions in the predesign stage, when the economic expediency of exploiting a karstic region is evaluated, measures are taken to protect the environment and provide engineering protection to the lands and structures, programs are developed for structural-engineering surveys, appropriate geologic-engineering analogies are selected, etc. In a number of cases, it is expedient to employ these classifications in the design of specific structures. Without them, it is extremely difficult to make an objective determination of the risk of negative consequences of karst.Many methods exist for the classification of terrains prone to karst hazards. We have attempted to analyze them by examining approximately 50 domestic and foreign publications. Basic trends in the development of classification methods are revealed, and the following conclusions and recommendations drawn.

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