Seawater Intrusion

Abstract

In many parts of the world, coastal aquifers constitute an important source of water. Often, coastal areas are also heavily populated, a fact that makes the demand for freshwater even more acute. Due to the proximity and contact with the sea, the planning and management of such aquifers requires special attention associated with the danger of seawater (or saltwater) intrusion. In fact, this phenomenon constitutes one of the major constraints in the management of groundwater in costal aquifers. As seawater intrusion progresses, the part of the aquifer close to the sea becomes saline, and pumping wells that operate close to the coast have to be abandoned. Also, the area above the intruding seawater wedge, which remains fresh by natural replenishment, is lost as a source of freshwater.