IWRA Proceedings

AbstractApproximately 40% of the global population lives within 100 km of the marine coast and are vulnerable to converging atmospheric and marine stressors. Along the land-sea interface, a subsurface salt wedge extends inland and underlies fresh groundwater due to the density differences between fresh and saltwater. Dense coastal populations strain fresh groundwater resources, as high pumping rates can draw this salt wedge landward in a process known as saltwater intrusion. Rising sea levels and storm surge can increase coastal aquifer salinization, particularly on islands. Canada has the world’s longest coastline and is projected to experience high rates of relative sea-level rise, further increasing the vulnerability of freshwater. Sea-ice reduction and hurricanes tracking higher north will also contribute to more intense waves and storm surges and associated extreme high-water events.