In contrast to the prolonged drought experienced in the Maritimes this year, Sable Island remained unaffected due to its abundant underground reservoir of fresh water. Situated 290 kilometers southeast of Halifax, the island boasts a unique water supply system characterized by a vast dome of fresh water floating atop the denser saltwater in the ocean, as described by Audrey Levesque, a Parks Canada visitor experience coordinator on Sable Island. This underground water source is made possible by the highly permeable sand beneath the island, likened to a massive sponge that rapidly absorbs rain and snow.
Sable Island receives slightly more precipitation than Halifax on average, with the water quickly seeping underground, resulting in the absence of surface streams. Over time, this process forms a substantial layer of groundwater, possibly exceeding 30 meters in depth. This accumulation of fresh water creates a gentle, elevated reservoir beneath the island, gradually tapering towards the beaches.
Levesque noted that this phenomenon is not exclusive to Sable Island but occurs in various islands and coastal regions where substantial amounts of water become trapped in wet sand. This unique water system supports the island’s diverse wildlife with access to 21 permanent ponds and year-round water supply. Even the renowned Sable Island horses have adapted by digging wells into the sand in areas where pond water is scarce.
For the limited human population on the island, a well provides fresh water that surpasses the quality of mainland water sources. Despite the dry spring that posed challenges for other parts of Nova Scotia, Sable Island’s water levels remained stable, alleviating concerns about water scarcity.
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