Scientists have noticed a recent increase in seismic activity near the 8.5-acre sinkhole at Bayou Corne, and worry that it might grow again, Assumption Parish officials say. The increase was first noticed about two weeks ago, John Boudreaux, director of the Assumption Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, told The Advocate. Scientists noticed more than 80 such events on Jan. 18, but activity dropped after the sinkhole "burped" crude oil, debris and hydrocarbon to the surface the next morning, he said.