New Reservoir Could Supply Millions With Water for 800 Years
Summary
Researchers found a large freshwater reservoir under the Atlantic Ocean off the U.S. East Coast. This reservoir could supply water to a city the size of New York for about 800 years. Before it can be used, many steps are needed to ensure it can be accessed without mixing with seawater.Key Facts
- The freshwater reservoir is located beneath the Atlantic Ocean seabed from New Jersey to Maine.
- It may have formed around 20,000 years ago during the last ice age.
- Researchers confirmed its existence through an expedition that drilled into the seabed and found low-salinity water.
- The reservoir holds potential to help manage future droughts but is not naturally replenishable like some onshore water sources.
- The use of this water requires policies and careful planning to avoid contamination from seawater.
- Governance, water rights, and management need to be developed for accessing and using this resource.
- Infrastructure would be necessary to bring the water onshore and ensure it meets safety standards for use.
- The reservoir could also be valuable in emergencies, such as contamination of other water sources.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
