U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists and partners are conducting a unique study that involves injecting dye into the Kansas River, with the ultimate goal of providing information to assist in responses to potential critical events like harmful algal blooms and contaminant spills.

From June 21 to July 1, a harmless, bright red fluorescent dye was injected into the Kansas River at numerous locations. The dye was then measured downstream using instruments and compared with laboratory analyses, providing a better understanding of how quickly water flows from one location to another. Water-resource managers can then use this information to effectively respond to events like harmful algal blooms or contaminant spills that may make the water unsafe for the public to use. “Recent events with spills above intakes in rivers have pointed out the need for travel-time data to monitor and respond appropriately,” said Tom Stiles, Bureau of Water Director at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “With so many people dependent upon surface water supplies in Kansas, understanding how those rivers move is critical to proper water management.” Several dye-tracing experiments have been conducted along the Kansas River as part of this study, starting in September of 2020. Read more at USGS.