Fresh water that trickled down into Earth’s crust 6 million years ago became trapped thousands of feet beneath the Hyblaean Mountains in Sicily, forming an aquifer that has not budged since. Researchers hope the fresh water can be pumped up to alleviate water scarcity in Sicily and that the discovery will inspire similar deep groundwater explorations in other parts of the Mediterranean.
6 million-year-old ‘fossil groundwater pool’ discovered deep beneath Sicilian mountains
Explore
National Chapters
Local professional, scientific and social benefits and promotion of sustainable groundwater use
Commissions & Networks
Contributing to the science of groundwater and undertaking outreach, education and training
Publications
Information about IAH’s Hydrogeology Journal and books
Education
Resources, materials and links for the general public, students and professionals
