29-5 The Relation of Groundwater Conditions to Salt-marsh Dieback Recovery near St. Simons Island, GA
Session: Undergraduate Research, Part II (Posters)
Poster Booth No.: 56
Presenting Author:
Gunner YoumansAuthors:
Youmans, Gunner Thomas1, Kelly, Jacque L.2(1) School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, USA, (2) School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability, Georgia Southern University, Brooklet, GA, ,
Abstract:
Salt marshes provide critical ecological and economic benefits, including storm buffering, water filtration, and habitat provision for many species. Marsh dieback events however, impact these ecosystems, leading to stressed areas transitioning into erosion prone mudflats. This study investigates how groundwater conditions relate to Spartina alterniflora (smooth cordgrass) dieback recovery near St. Simons Island, Georgia. By comparing nutrient concentrations and water quality parameters in healthy and stressed marsh zones, this research aims to address if groundwater conditions affect marsh dieback recovery.
Groundwater conditions will be measured across six plots during the fall and spring to capture seasonal variability and will be compared to historic groundwater condition data that were collected when the marsh was experiencing dieback. By contrasting groundwater conditions during dieback and recovery phases, this study aims to clarify the role of groundwater dynamics in salt marsh dieback recovery in Georgia’s coastal marshes.
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 1, 2026
© Copyright 2026 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved.
The Relation of Groundwater Conditions to Salt-marsh Dieback Recovery near St. Simons Island, GA
Category
Topical Sessions
Description
Session Format: Poster
Presentation Date: 3/10/2026
Presentation Room: RCC, Lower Level Hall
Poster Booth No.: 56
Author Availability: 2:00-4:00 p.m.
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