Saltwater Intrusion (SWI) poses risks to freshwater resources and ecosystems
OVERVIEW | IMPACT | RESEARCH PLAN | VISION-GOALS | SUPPORT
OVERVIEW
Saltwater intrusion (SWI) is increasingly threatening Delaware’s drinking water, farmland, coastal ecosystems, and infrastructure, especially as sea levels rise. Because Delaware is the lowest-lying state and heavily reliant on groundwater, understanding both the physical processes driving SWI and how people respond to these risks is essential. The WiCCED Salt project brings together scientists, engineers, and social scientists to study these environmental and human dynamics, predict future conditions, and develop practical solutions—such as marsh restoration, salt-tolerant vegetation, and improved infrastructure—to help coastal communities become more resilient.
The project also aims to build long-term research capacity across Delaware’s institutions by distributing funding more equitably, hiring new faculty, and strengthening statewide collaboration. It will support cutting-edge research, community engagement, workforce development, and national leadership on SWI—including hosting workshops and international meetings. By expanding expertise, engaging stakeholders, and aligning with Delaware’s Science & Technology Plan, WiCCED Salt seeks to position Delaware as a global leader in understanding and addressing saltwater intrusion.
IMPACT
—SWI threatens drinking water, agriculture, and coastal ecosystems.
—It contributes to infrastructure corrosion and has been linked to disasters like the Surfside condominium collapse.
—Sea level rise is expected to exacerbate flooding and salinization by the end of the century.
—Over 50% of Delaware’s land is within 5 miles of the coast, with 8% to 11% projected to be underwater by 2100.
—Two-thirds of Delaware’s population relies on groundwater, with $1.5 billion of urban infrastructure at risk
VISION & GOALS
VISION
—WiCCED Salt focuses on convergent research relevant to coastal stakeholders and emphasizes workforce development.
—It aims to build a diverse workforce and engage communities historically underrepresented in STEM.
—The project aligns with Delaware’s Science and Technology Plan, addressing agriculture, data science, environment, and talent retention.
RESEARCH GOALS
—The project aims to integrate scientific understanding of SWI with human decision-making processes.
—It seeks to develop technology and policy solutions to mitigate SWI impacts.
—Strategies include converting agricultural land to marshes and employing corrosion-resistant infrastructure in urban areas.
—The project will enhance research capacity across Delaware’s academic institutions and engage diverse stakeholders.
RESEARCH PLAN
—The overarching research question focuses on the risks of SWI and evidence-based mitigation strategies.
—The project will evaluate physical risks, human decision-making, and propose innovations for adaptation.
—It will leverage existing research and partnerships to enhance workforce capacity and knowledge.
Acknowledging EPSCoR Support
The National Science Foundation (NSF) requires grantees to acknowledge EPSCoR support in every publication (including webpages) of any material based on or developed under this grant.
To acknowledge EPSCoR support which began July 1, 2025, please use this text: “This publication (or program) was made possible by the National Science Foundation EPSCoR Grant No. 2446056.
EPSCoR funding awardees are responsible for assuring that every publication of material (including webpages) based on or developed under this award, except scientific articles or papers appearing in scientific, technical or professional journals, contains the following disclaimer: “Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.”
NSF support must also be orally acknowledged during all news media interviews, including popular media, such as radio, television, and news magazines.
For more information, see the NSF Grant Policy Manual.