Saltwater intrusion occurs when seawater infiltrates freshwater aquifers or coastal groundwater systems, often leading to degraded water quality. Key causes include:
- Over-extraction of groundwater: Excessive pumping reduces pressure in freshwater aquifers, allowing saltwater to move in.
- Rising sea levels: Climate change raises sea levels, pushing saltwater further inland.
- Natural changes: Tidal or seasonal shifts disrupt the balance between freshwater and saltwater.
Addressing saltwater intrusion requires precise mapping and monitoring of the affected zones. Advanced geophysical tools, such as tTEM and floaTEM, provide detailed subsurface imaging to:
- Identify the interface between freshwater and saltwater.
- Monitor the extent of saltwater intrusion over time.
- Support groundwater management strategies to mitigate its effects.
By leveraging tools like tTEM and floaTEM, stakeholders can better manage coastal groundwater systems and develop effective solutions to combat saltwater intrusion.
