The Orient Association hosted a Forum on saltwater intrusion on Sunday, October 27th at 2pm in Poquatuck Hall. The ongoing water study points to sea level rise and saltwater intrusion as a substantial threat to the Orient community.
We had a discussion about the current and future state of saltwater intrusion in our wells and drinking water. Saltwater intrusion is a slow and insidious process of seeping in to well water such that it is no longer drinkable. Saltwater can also be detrimental to plumbing and other equipment in the home. This happens because of excessive pumping, an increase in sea level rise and other factors. Coastal areas are a zone of high risk for saltwater intrusion and Orient is one of those areas. The discussion will include what to look for, areas of concern, and mitigation strategies.
Speakers Frederick Stumm, Research Hydrologist, from the US Geological Survey and Greg Nissen from Mermaid Water Solutions shared their knowledge of recent changes in the saltwater levels in coastal areas and how to handle them including:
- recent changes in the saltwater levels in coastal areas
- the current study that the USGS is undertaking on Suffolk County’s groundwater sustainability.
- how to address drinking water contaminants from saltwater.
Participate in USGS saltwater monitoring project so that Orient and the Town of Southold are well represented in the study.
Resources:
Recent Happenings
Southold Zoning Update Project – July 29, 2025 3-4pm
Orient Water Resources Study Is Finally Here!
