Saltwater Intrusion Resources
Saltwater intrusion refers to the movement of salt water into freshwater aquifers. This can degrade groundwater quality, contaminating sources used for drinking and crop irrigation. Extended droughts can push this saltwater-freshwater boundary inland, reducing the soil’s ability to flush out salt. This becomes a significant concern because saltwater is not suitable for irrigation or consumption, presenting challenges for coastal communities reliant on freshwater.
Climate change intensifies these threats. Extended droughts can decrease water levels and flow rates of rivers, allowing tidal inflow of salt and brackish water to raise salt concentrations and widen exposure areas. This phenomenon is evident along waterways like the Mississippi River. Other climate change-driven factors exacerbating the issue include rising sea levels, king tides, and the increasing frequency and severity of storms and hurricanes.
For further information on saltwater intrusion and protective measures for communities, please refer to the resources provided below. Additionally, we’ve listed contacts for experts who can offer insights and address any questions about this topic.
Education
Freshwater-Saltwater Interactions along the Atlantic Coast |
Groundwater and the Rising Seas |
Salt Water Intrudes On Household Wells and Septic Systems |
Saltwater Intrusion |
Saltwater Incursion |
Desalination |
Article
Restore or retreat? saltwater intrusion and water management in coastal wetlands |
Mitigation
Best Practices for Prevention of Saltwater Intrusion |
Adaptation Strategies for Saltwater Intrusion |
Resilient Strategies Guide for Water Utilities |
Plan-to-adapt-to-saltwater-intrusion-and-salinization |
Climate Adaptation and Saltwater Intrusion |
Subject Matter Experts
Paul Barlow
Chief, Hydrologic Interpretive Branch
New England Water Science Center
pbarlow@usgs.gov
Sam Sherchan, Ph.D
Associate Professor
Morgan State University
samendra.sherchan@morgan.edu