Join us for the October RISING Webinar featuring Dr. Holly Michael.

Where: Join us on Zoom! Register at https://bit.ly/RISING_Webinar_Registration

Who: Holly Michael, Professor of Earth Sciences, University of Delaware

Topic: Mechanisms of salinization of coastal water resources and ecosystems: Insights from observations across the Mid-Atlantic

Description: Coastlines around the world are rapidly changing as sea level rises and coastal storms become more frequent and intense. Coastal water resources are vulnerable to salinization, exacerbated by overuse. As salinity increases and flooding becomes more frequent, marshes migrate inland, displacing trees and croplands. Understanding the primary factors that affect aquifer vulnerability to changes in salinity and groundwater flow patterns is critical to developing effective management plans in coastal zones. We present examples of salinization mechanisms in coastal systems around the Mid-Atlantic. The examples span different land use and ecosystems, and consider both surface and subsurface pathways for salinization. We address effects on water resources, agriculture, and ecosystems that span the land-sea margin.