The Hunt for White Gold: A Canadian Iceberg Hunter’s Quest

In the frigid waters of Newfoundland's Bonavista Bay, Edward Kean has turned iceberg hunting into a unique livelihood. For over 20 years, this seasoned fisherman has scoured the North Atlantic for colossal icebergs, fragments of Greenland’s glaciers, to harvest their pristine water—a venture he aptly calls his “white gold.”

A Day on the Water

At dawn, Kean and his three-person crew aboard the Green Waters embark on their mission. Using satellite maps and binoculars, they identify potential targets, often sailing miles from shore. Upon locating an iceberg, the challenge begins. Kean uses a rifle to fracture the massive ice structure, while his crew retrieves floating fragments weighing up to two tons. These pieces are then hauled aboard and stored in 1,000-liter containers to melt into some of the purest water on Earth.

Racing Against Time

The harvest season, running from May to July, is a race against time. As summer advances, icebergs melt rapidly once they drift to Newfoundland’s coast. “They’re like fallen leaves,” says Kean. “In a couple of weeks, they’ll be gone, back to nature.” His method is environmentally conscious, utilizing ice that would otherwise melt into the ocean.

A Lucrative Market

Kean’s efforts supply local companies that market iceberg water as a symbol of purity and luxury. One such client, Dyna Pro, bottles the water and sells it for up to CAD $16 per bottle, targeting high-end consumers in markets like Europe, Singapore, and Dubai. Other businesses use iceberg water in products ranging from cosmetics to wine, prized for its unparalleled clarity and taste.

The Challenges

Despite its success, the industry faces hurdles. Harvesting icebergs is labor-intensive, and modernizing tools has proven difficult. “Nobody wants to work like this anymore,” admits Kean, who struggles to retain crew members. At 60, he’s aware that time is running out for his own career but hopes the tradition can endure.

The Bigger Picture

The increasing number of icebergs drifting south, a result of accelerated Arctic warming, underscores the duality of Kean’s trade. While it offers a sustainable use for melting ice, it also highlights the realities of climate change. Nevertheless, Kean’s work ensures that this fleeting natural resource is cherished and shared with the world.

For the original source article, visit: Phys.org - Canadian Iceberg Hunter on the Trail of White Gold