In Florida, almost all drinking water comes from aquifers. Saltwater contamination of these aquifers is more likely when __________.
pumping rates from the aquifer are less than recharge rates pumping rates from the aquifer exceed recharge rates rainfall is highest pumping rates from the aquifer decline
Saltwater contamination of aquifers is more likely when pumping rates from the aquifer exceed recharge rates. When water is extracted from an aquifer at a rate faster than it can be replenished, it can create a pressure imbalance that allows saltwater to intrude into the aquifer, especially in coastal areas.