In contrast to the prolonged drought experienced in the Maritimes this year, Sable Island has not faced the same water scarcity issue. Situated 290 kilometers southeast of Halifax, the island benefits from a substantial underground reservoir of freshwater. Audrey Levesque, a Parks Canada visitor experience coordinator on Sable Island, described this underground water source as a vast dome of freshwater floating atop the denser saltwater in the ocean.
The island’s sandy terrain acts like a massive sponge, absorbing rain and snow more effectively than the surrounding Halifax area. Consequently, the water swiftly permeates underground, preventing the formation of surface streams. Over time, this groundwater layer can reach depths of up to 30 meters or possibly more, creating a significant reserve of freshwater beneath the island’s surface.
According to Levesque, the phenomenon of trapped water in wet sand is not unique to Sable Island but occurs in various coastal regions and islands. This unique geological feature provides wildlife on the island with access to 21 permanent ponds and a year-round water supply. Even the renowned Sable Island horses have adapted to the environment by digging wells in the sand to secure their own water sources.
For the limited human population on the island, a dedicated well ensures a reliable freshwater supply. Levesque emphasized that the quality of water on Sable Island surpasses that consumed on the mainland, offering a superior taste experience. Despite a dry spring, while other parts of Nova Scotia faced crop failures and dwindling water reserves, Sable Island maintained normal rainfall levels. Levesque mentioned that water levels in the island’s well were regularly monitored but never reached a concerning threshold.
This unique water supply resilience on Sable Island stands out amidst regional challenges, highlighting the island’s natural abundance and adaptability to climate conditions.
