Delmarva Saltwater Intrusion and Inundation

Saltwater intrusion and inundation (SWI) are emerging challenges for agriculture across the Delmarva Peninsula. As a salt source, intrusion is related to saline groundwater, bringing salts from below, while inundation occurs when tidal flooding or storm surge brings saline water onto agricultural fields. 

Both processes can increase salt and sodium in soils, affect soil properties, reduce crop productivity, and make some agricultural fields more difficult to manage.

This site provides agricultural information and research on where saltwater intrusion and inundation occur, how they affect soils and crops, how to assess affected fields, and management options for Delmarva agriculture.