Water Issues in Nova Scotia: Loss and Alteration of Wetland Habitat

Microscopic zooplanktion, insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals live in Nova Scotia’s lakes, rivers and shores. Wetlands provide the food, shelter, and breeding grounds required for these animals to survive, but are now being threatened by infilling, alteration, construction, tidal barriers, warmer temperatures, and contaminated groundwater. Humans can benefit from wetlands acting as a water filter, a setting for outdoor activities, and a place to enjoy wildlife. In October, 2007, the Blue Mountain –Birch Cove Lakes area was protected under the Wilderness Areas Protection Act. The area contains several undeveloped lakes and many wetlands, and is just west of Halifax which is rapidly expanding into adjacent areas. The protection of Blue Mountain Birch Cove was very welcome news, but there are many more wetlands which may be lost if not formally protected.

As people realize the importance of wetlands, they are beginning to practice sustainable land use. Community groups are adopting and restoring local wetlands, and Nova Scotia Environment is in the process of creating a water resource management strategy. However, wetlands are still being infilled for development and the enforcement and regulations to prevent them from doing this is lacking. For example, Kings County is facing issues regarding the agricultural industry drying out the wetlands; it is evident that land use planning needs to play a larger role and the local government must play a part.