GRCA to conduct dye tracer testing in Conestogo River

CAMBRIDGE – The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) will be conducting dye tracer testing in the Conestogo River, upstream of the town of St. Jacobs near Three Bridges Road sometime during the week of Dec.18.

The dye is environmentally friendly and may temporarily give the Conestogo River a yellow-green colour, GRCA officials say.

In a Dec. 14 press release, the GRCA stated the dye will dilute quickly as it moves downstream though St. Jacobs towards Conestogo and Waterloo in the hours following the work, eventually becoming invisible.

The dye is harmless to aquatic life and to individuals who may rely on the river for their water supply or recreational uses, officials say.

The dye tracer is being used as part of the routine maintenance of the GRCA’s water control infrastructure.

The dye shows water flows over water control structures and helps GRCA staff assess the condition of these structures, the authority notes.