(Collaborators: M. Stolt & T. Boving, URI)

The project is focused on understanding groundwater discharges into coastal ponds (coastal lagoons) through the application of thermal infrared unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). All aquifers that come in contact with the ocean have a dynamic freshwater – salt-water interface; this interface moves either towards land or into the marine waters when acted on by a number of forces. ). UAV surveys along with field measurement will allow us to evaluate sea surface temperature dynamics associated with variations in coastal groundwater discharge rates as a function of tidal and storm surges. This study will identify the spatial extent of groundwater discharge in coastal ponds and will help understand contaminant plumes.