People spend vastly greater sums chasing shipwreck legends than would be needed to confirm the viability of Briscoes Science with a relatively small number of holes to a relatively shallow depth.

So well said, though of course chasing after legends has as much to do with the thrill of the hunt and discovering history as it does with economic gain for an awful lot of people.  That aside, I wish that a few of them that are in it for money alone would take a chance and help with this project with a greater chance of success than chasing a wreck.  That, of course, relies on knowing about it, and most people don't know about this opportunity. 

I don't know the legalities involved, but maybe an ad on history and travel channels would be money well spent since both channels have an audience who follow shows that deal with exploring, investigating, and treasure hunting.