Delmarva Saltwater Intrusion

Saltwater intrusion reducing crop growth along field edges.

Surface saltwater intrusion (SWI) is caused by sea level rise (SLR), land subsidence, and coastal storms. For the Eastern United States, this is a newer phenomenon. As a developing issue, management and knowledge are constantly evolving.

Along the Delmarva Peninsula (Delaware, Maryland, Virginia) SWI occurs on landscapes adjacent to the Chesapeake Bay, Delaware Bay, Atlantic Ocean, and other brackish waters. Flooding from high tides, sunny day flooding, or stormwater surges causes soil saturation and deposits salts, reducing plant growth.

Alternate Pages for Information on Issues Along the Delmarva Coastline

Publications and Educational Materials
Agriculture and Salt Issues
Ghost Forests
Where Does SWI Occur on Delmarva?
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