π§ Dye trace reveals hidden Idaho groundwater routes
In 2010, scientists injected fluorescent dye into a well near Malad Gorge to map underground groundwater movement. This tracer test, done near Malad Gorge State Park, revealed fast travel through fractured volcanic rock. The dye moved at an average of 664 feet per day, with a max speed near 2,000 feet daily. This helps manage the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer, which is vital for southern Idaho's water needs. Further tests in 2012 and 2013 tracked the dye up to 3.1 miles away. π§