Saltwater Intrusion Threatens Mississippi River Nursery, Highlights Climate Change Impact

Louisiana farmer Ricky Becnel and his family are facing the threat of saltwater intrusion as the Gulf of Mexico pushes further up the Mississippi River due to drought conditions. The saltwater is approaching Becnel’s tree nursery, which requires pumping about 100,000 gallons of fresh water from the river daily. The encroaching saltwater could threaten drinking water supplies, undermine agriculture, and damage infrastructure in multiple Louisiana communities. In an effort to slow down the saltwater’s progression, the US Army Corps of Engineers plans to expand an underwater barrier. However, if current conditions persist, the barrier may be overtopped. Saltwater intrusion can corrode appliances, equipment, harm crops, and complicate livestock care. This year marks the second consecutive year of severe drought along the Mississippi River, which has led to the saltwater intrusion. Climate change and rising global temperatures intensify droughts and the frequency of extreme weather events. As the drought continues, the Corps is also preparing alternative sources of water and acquiring reverse osmosis systems to filter out harmful salt for safe drinking supplies.