(Collaborators: T. Boving, URI)

Saltwater intrusion has been identified as one of the important stressors on coastal water by RIDOH (SafewaterRI Report). As more groundwater is used and less is replenished due to decreased seasonal precipitation and progressive sealing of infiltration surfaces in developing coastal areas, saltwater will creep into the coastal aquifers, resulting in contamination of critical drinking water resources. The intrusion of saltwater can cause the salinity of the groundwater to rise above acceptable drinking standards (EPA secondary standard for chloride (Cl-) is 250 mg/L) and can affect drinking water infrastructure by increasing corrosion. This is a large concern for the majority of the population in Southern Rhode Island, who rely heavily on coastal groundwater supplies. To date, no studies or assessments have been conducted to understand saltwater intrusion in Rhode Island’s coastal aquifers. Given the recent acceleration of the rate of sea-level rise and model projections of a potential 2+m of sea-level rise by 2100, saltwater intrusion is very likely to be a major and growing threat to water quality and the habitat in RI coastal environments.  This study proposes to combine monitoring and modeling studies in coastal aquifers, relying on public wells and new wells installed for the purpose of this project in the coastal area south of North Kingstown, RI. Our study will result in an enhanced understanding of the extent and impacts of saltwater intrusion to the coastal zones of Rhode Island.