Mystery behind neon green burn at beauty spot solved
The glen, a well-known beauty spot popular with dog walkers and nature lovers, quickly became the focus of local speculation.
READ MORE: Environment Secretary urged to apologise for 'misleading' Scottish water claims
One social media user asked: "Am I seeing things or is the burn in Milndavie Glen bright green?"
Others jumped in with their own theories, ranging from light reflection and algae bloom to more concerning suggestions such as chemical contamination. One person commented: "Could be an algae bloom, or just light reflection."
Another added: "That looks like contamination."
A third speculated: "Could be tracer dye used to trace leaks."
To uncover the truth, The Glasgow Times contacted both the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and Scottish Water for clarification.
SEPA confirmed that they had received reports from local residents and, following these reports, conducted an investigation.
They concluded that the green colour was indeed caused by dye testing. The substance used is commonly employed in water tracing and poses no lasting harm to the environment.
READ MORE: Scottish Water issues safety warning as warm weather expected this weekend
(Image: Sourced)
A SEPA spokesperson said: 'SEPA has received reports of a green substance in the water at Milndavie Glen, Strathblane, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
"Initial investigations suggest dye testing has been carried out, which can leave colouring in the water for a short period, but has no adverse effect on the environment.
'We would like to thank the public for reporting this and encourage anyone who is concerned about a potential pollution incident to contact SEPA as soon as possible on 0800 80 70 60 or by submitting an online report at sepa.org.uk/report with as much information as possible.'
READ MORE: Scottish Water warning after fire hydrants set off in Glasgow
Scottish Water also confirmed the discolouration was the result of dye testing and not due to pollution.
A spokesperson added that they had investigated after receiving public reports and confirmed there was no threat to [[pub]]lic or environmental health.
The reassurance comes as a relief to locals and highlights the importance of prompt public reporting in protecting local natural spaces.
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