Dye Tracing

Abstract

Dye tracing is a valuable method to characterize fl ow in fractured-rock and karst aquifers. It is the method of choice for regional and intermediate fl ow measurements but can also be applied to some local measurements including the epikarst zone. In this chapter, we review some considerations for dye tracing, including types of dyes, along with sampling and analysis methods. A few examples are provided showing how dye tracing has been applied to answer some very specifi c questions including fl ow under a dam site, vulnerability of a cave habitat, confi rmation of contaminant source and evaluation of capture zones for a major spring. A special thanks to Tom Aley of the Ozark Underground Laboratory, who provided assistance with this chapter as well as project examples based upon his lengthy experience with dye tracing.