CHLORIDES

Negative chlorine ions, Cl-, found naturally in some surface waters and groundwaters and in high concentrations in seawater. Higher-than-normal chloride concentrations in fresh water, due to sodium chloride (table salt) that is used on foods and present in body wastes, can indicate sewage pollution. The use of highway deicing salts can also introduce chlorides to surface water or groundwater. Elevated groundwater chlorides in drinking water wells near coastlines may indicate Saltwater Intrusion.