Fascinating Time-Lapse Video Shows Chicago River Turning Green

Every year for St. Patrick's Day a section of the Chicago River is dyed green. If you've never been in Chicago for the event, this time-lapse video shows how it's done.

The tradition of dying the river green started over 40 years ago. The original dye used to color the river was a large quantity of florescent dye used by plumbers to detect waste water or leaking pipes that may be dumping into the river.

Due to concerns over the possible toxicity of the dye, a vegetable based dye was developed to create the same effect in a much safer way. About 40 pounds of dye is used to keep the water green for several hours on St. Patrick's Day.

Here's another video in real time showing the actual dumping of the dye into the river.

I think it would be an excellent idea to try this  along a stretch of the Colorado River through Grand Junction. I haven't quite figured out the best section of the river that would ensure the most people would see it, though. So, if you have any ideas let us know.