Seawater Intrusion

Saltwater intrusion has occurred to some degree in many of the coastal aquifers of the United States. Since saltwater cannot be used to irrigate crops or be consumed by people, saltwater intrusion can be very problematic to coastal communities that rely on fresh groundwater supplies for the livelihood. The California Water Science center studies how excessive groundwater pumping, sea level rise, and other factors contribute to the encroachment of seawater into the state's fresh groundwater supplies. This research aids those who manage the water supplies, allowing for better management strategies to protect people and their sources of water.