Changing precipitation patterns may alter the water table in these groundwater-fed systems, driving changes in species composition in coastal plain swamps.

Impacts to this forest community are expected to vary with proximity to salt water, and reliance on groundwater. In areas disconnected from saltwater intrusion, hardwood species are likely to persist and red maple may be more competitive on sites with reduced soil moisture. The hydrology of these areas may allow some changes in the position or size of swamps without losing the system completely, though existing infrastructure and development may restrict movement.