Dye-trace studies linking west Austin recharge to Barton Springs

Hydrologic dye-tracing studies by researchers and the U.S. Geological Survey have demonstrated that recharge features and sinkholes in parts of west Austin are hydrologically connected to the Barton Springs outlets. Those studies mapped subsurface flow paths through the Edwards Aquifer and have informed watershed-protection and pollution-control efforts. The findings show contaminants entering recharge zones in west Austin can travel underground to the springs.