In 2019, a large freshwater reservoir was discovered beneath the Atlantic Ocean, and a team of scientists has since been tasked with investigating this system. Amongst them is DENIN Director and Earth Sciences Professor Dr. Holly Michael, whose background in hydrogeology has helped inform how we may protect and manage these unexplored resources in the face of a growing water crisis.
Lying deep off the northern East Coast, this pocket of freshwater stretches from the shores of Massachusetts to New Jersey. According to researchers, it is the largest of its kind to be discovered, with an estimated volume of 670 cubic miles of drinkable water.
Following the reservoir’s discovery, the European Consortium for Ocean Research Drilling assembled an international team of hydrogeologists, geochemists, microbiologists, and other specialized scientists to investigate this suboceanic system. Dr. Holly Michael was recruited to the team for her extensive research background in hydrogeology and coastal water sources. Beginning in May 2025, part of this team embarked on Expedition 501, a three-month stay at an offshore reservoir drilling site. Scientists examined water and sediment samples to begin determining the age, distribution, source, and biogeochemical nature of the freshwater. The water samples pulled are currently undergoing lab tests for microbes and safety for human consumption.
Michael, who worked with the team’s onshore segment, recently spoke with CNN about Expedition 501, her conclusions about the reservoir, and the role it may play in coastal water shortages. With over-pumping, salinization, and climate change all threatening the long-term viability of regional water sources, extracting reservoir water may become a future alternative, although protecting our existing sources will long remain our best option.