Submarine Groundwater Discharge

We are studying submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) at local, regional and continental-shelf scales. We are broadly interested in improving our understanding of the various mechanisms that drive groundwater flow in the coastal zone.

We study SGD in wetlands, glacial terrains, drowned-river estuaries, and karst environments. Our tools of choice? Radon and radium isotopes, natural tracers of SGD. We also use thermal infrared (TIR) imagery to locate areas of groundwater seepage along the coast.

Sampling intertidal groundwater wells in Long Island, NY.
Collecting thermal infrared imagery along the shores of Long Island, NY to find areas of groundwater discharge. Photo credit: Deanne Rogers