Projects

Objective

Perform a dye tracer investigation to determine groundwater  pathways and velocities from the manufacturing plant’s property for the purpose of a pre-construction environmental impact assessment.

Scope of Work

Dye receptor locations were selected during the Karst Hydrogeologic Inventory. This field investigation was also necessary to confirm the accuracy of the geologic map. The survey was conducted under conditions ranging from moderate to high flow during a wet period when the dominant resurgence points were active. The survey was conducted by walking or floating all streams and associated impoundments (lakes/ponds) in the study area to visually identify karst features such as springs, soil springs, seeps, sinkholes, swallets, karst windows, sinking streams, and caves.

Background Fluorescence Investigation involved the monitoring of resurgence points and streams in the study area for background concentration of dye from previous dye traces, contamination, and natural interference. The results of the background were used to evaluate the the appropriate dyes and dye concentration to be used in the dye tracer investigation.

Conclusions and Recommendations

The karst investigation and dye tracer study revealed groundwater flow direction and delineated groundwater basins within the study area.  The research by Crawford Hydrology Laboratory identified areas of concern for potential environmental impact and assisted the manufacturer in risk assessment as well as  health and safety planning and compliance.