Newfoundland Coastline
Impact

Salt Water Intrusion

When sea-level rise occurs in areas where water is being pumped from groundwater reservoirs, it can pull sea-water inland, displacing fresh groundwater. These salt water intrusions can contaminate community fresh water drinking supplies, and damage coastal ecosystems whose species cannot tolerate high levels of salt in the soil. Parts of the southwest portion of Newfoundland are particularly susceptible to the effects of salt water intrusion due to its geology, and many communities in the area rely on groundwater as both a public and private water source.

About This Tool

This application was created by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador's Office of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency. It is designed to provide a broad overview of how climate change is impacting Newfoundland and Labrador, and facilitate meeting curriculum outcomes for the high school course Environmental Science 3205.

Sources include: