Conclusions

The Northern Atlantic Coastal Plain is a complex aquifer system consisting of an unconfined aquifer followed by alternating layers of confining units and confined aquifers. The system relies heavily on precipitation for recharge and is a strong provider of input to surface waters such as streams, rivers, and estuaries. The ten regional aquifers vary in geologic and hydraulic properties, but all serve as important sources of groundwater to millions of people near the East Coast. Like most aquifers across the U.S., the NACP faces threats to the quantity and quality of its groundwater. As the population has grown throughout the region, the need for water has increased and over pumping has occurred. Contaminants, both manmade and natural, have been tracked throughout the aquifers and are affecting the groundwater's natural chemistry. The inevitable effects of climate change will likely result in less precipitation to recharge the aquifers and increased saltwater intrusion. Although each state within the system has their own rules and regulations established to protect this freshwater resource, the need for interstate management will continue to rise as threats persist.