NSEN updates, member news and events, calls to action, green job opportunities, and more!
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NSEN News & Updates
Member Updates
Calls to Action
Nova Scotia Environmental News
Green Job Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
Other Information
NSEN Updates
Nova Scotia Biodiversity Caucus
Celebrate Wetlands Appreciation Week with a Free Webinar! 🌊🌿
The Nova Scotia Biodiversity Caucus invites you to a free lunch-and-learn webinar on August 13 from 12:30 - 1:30 PM, in collaboration with East Coast Environmental Law and Birds Canada.
This session is perfect for private landowners and community members interested in protecting wetlands and the wildlife that depend on them.
What you’ll learn: ✅ Key legal and policy tools used to protect wetlands in Nova Scotia ✅ Conservation options tailored to private landowners ✅ An introduction toMarshWatch, Birds Canada’s interactive bird and amphibian ID training tool ✅ How to get involved in the Marsh Monitoring Program, a national volunteer initiative tracking the health of Canada’s marshes
Don’t miss this free opportunity to learn how you can support wetland conservation on your land and in your community!
Our annual Bioblitz is back! Between June 25 and September 2, join us in contributing to citizen science using iNaturalist!
Your observations of native, endangered, or invasive species, and more support the work of our member organizations and other conservationists and researchers in Nova Scotia!
NSEN is growing and we want you to be part of it! With new members, exciting events, and stronger collaboration across the province, there's never been a better time to stay connected.
If you are an NSEN member and haven’t yet renewed your membership for 2025, we encourage you to do so and continue benefiting from opportunities to: ✅ Join provincial caucuses on topics including water, biodiversity, and environmental education; ✅ Participate in our annual meeting with the Minister of Environment and Climate Change; ✅ Share your events, projects, job postings, calls to action, etc. through NSEN’s newsletter and social media; ✅ Highlight your work in free webinars organized by the NSEN team; ✅ Recruit volunteers through our Volunteer Hub; ✅ Connect with like-minded individuals and organizations at NSEN events.
If you’re unsure of your current membership status or would like to discuss your renewal, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to connect!
9th Annual Conference on Indigenous Consultation & Engagement Atlantic
October 22 – 23, 2025 | Atlantica Hotel Halifax, Halifax, NS
Join Indigenous leaders, government, and industry as they come together to share insights and develop strategies to address the most pressing consultation challenges across Atlantic Canada.
This essential event tackles today’s most urgent challenges—from landmark duty-to-consult rulings and UNDRIP implementation to Indigenous-led climate strategies and cumulative effects management. Gain actionable insights to help industry, government, and Indigenous rights-holders strengthen consultation, navigate legal obligations, and build meaningful partnerships.
As calls grow louder for urgent solutions to economic, environmental, and infrastructure needs, decision-makers must carefully balance development with environmental protection and Indigenous rights. At the same time, Prime Minister Carney’s push to fast-track project approvals and position Canada as a global energy leader may create additional pressure on the consultation process—raising the stakes for thoughtful, coordinated engagement.
This is a vital opportunity to connect with consultation and engagement leaders, share strategies, and shape the future of consultation practices across the Maritimes.
Save 10% with NSEN’s discount code: D10-999-NSEN26
Member Updates
Visit the Back to the Sea Centre This Summer!
Looking for a fun and educational ocean adventure? The Back to the Sea Centre, located at 140 Alderney Drive in Dartmouth, is open for regular summer hours: Wednesdays from 1-6 PM and Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM-4 PM, now through Labour Day.
Stop by to explore the incredible diversity of marine life found in Nova Scotia’s coastal waters! You’ll encounter fascinating marine invertebrates like sea stars, rock crabs, sea urchins, scallops, and many more... all native to our region and ready to spark curiosity and wonder!
Perfect for families, tourists, and ocean enthusiasts of all ages, the Centre offers hands-on experiences that bring you closer to life beneath the waves. Don’t miss your chance to dive into discovery this summer! Learn more about the Centre here.
Annual Open House
Our next open house will be held on Saturday, August 30st 2025 from 12:00PM to 4:00PM!
Get a once-a-year "behind-the-scenes" look at our wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility with tours of our medical facilities, access to our bird and mammal nurseries, our recovery units, the marine unit, and our giant flight cages!
There will also be wildlife displays and demonstrations, activities for the kids, live music, barbeque, a silent auction, as well as local exhibitors, crafts, and food! It is a fun-filled day for the whole family.
All funds raised go to support Hope for Wildlife's efforts to help injured and orphaned wildlife in Nova Scotia.
Sound the alarm! Ring the bells that still can ring! Seniors for Climate Halifax are partnering with Kairos, and youth, and we are Drawing the Line on Sept. 19th!
We will have speakers outlining climate issues, and exhibitors proposing ways you can be involved in the solutions. Check Seniors for Climate - Halifax on FB for details, as we get closer to the event.
Email seniorsforclimatehalifax@gmail.com to get on our mailing list, help with planning, to speak, or to exhibit. We'd love to hear from you!
Interested in other ideas?
National call for September 9th to 21st with 350.org and Seniors for Climate)
Coastal Action is Hiring! Coastal Action is seeking a Project Coordinator to support its innovative Climate Change Program, which focuses on 3D flood hazard visualization and community resilience. This full-time role is based in Mahone Bay, NS, with hybrid options available.
More details can be found under Green Job Opportunities below, or by clicking here.
Board Recruitment
The Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation is seeking new Directors to join its Board.
To support Coastal Action’s continued growth, we are seeking outstanding leaders with skills in marketing, fundraising and/or communication, as well as connections with academia, government and/or community.
Coastal Action’s Board of Directors oversees the strategic direction of the Society and provides support to the Executive Director. The Board is accountable for the Society’s performance in realizing its mission and achieving its goals, and for the effective stewardship of financial and human resources.
As a result of this recruitment process, Coastal Action anticipates appointment of 2-3 new Directors to the Board. All new board directors are expected to commit for a 3-year term (to September 2028).
We invite you to express your interest by emailing Brooke Nodding, Executive Director, and submitting your CV at brooke@coastalaction.org
Hike NS invites groups across NS to partner with it on delivering guided hike or walk events in September, October and November of 2025. The purpose of the event series is to:
Get more people in NS hiking and walking
Highlight local trails and increase their use
Promote Hike NS and local trail/hiking groups
Hike NS will help promote events and provide a how-to guide and trail prizes to giveaway. If your municipality, First Nation or organization can organize a hike or walk event (or already plan to host one), please register your event by August 17 for events between September 12 and November 16, 2025. Only the first 50 events will be accepted (spots might fill up before the deadline, so don't delay). Note that one organization may register only up to five events and register only one event per online form. You will be contacted soon after the deadline to confirm the details of your event. You will receive a confirmation email immediately after submitting an event (please contact us if you do not receive one).
Intro to Sea Kayaking for Eastern Shore Pride Month Friend of the Deanery, Jenn MacLatchy, is offering an Intro to Sea Kayaking Workshop on Saturday, August 17 from 1–4 PM, in celebration of Eastern Shore Pride Month, in collaboration with @easternshorepridens! 🫶🌈
This workshop is open to anyone who self-identifies as 2SLGBTQIA+ — whether you're brand new to kayaking or an experienced paddler, come enjoy a fun and welcoming afternoon on the water at the Deanery’s beautiful oceanfront.
‼️ Registration required: Email info@EasternShorePride.ca to sign up. A $25 deposit is required to secure your spot.
Calls to Action
Support: Major new campaign aims to keep the wild In Our Nature Nature Trust announces 4X matching funds to protect Nova Scotia’s most unique, ecologically important, and at-risk natural areas.
Act: A call for help from the very tired but determined Sandy Lake-Sackville River team
Sandy Lake Regional Park and all of the richness through to the Sackville River are at risk from a housing development, but it's NOT OVER!! Sandy Lake needs your help urgently.
The Sandy Lake - Sackville River Regional Park area has been proposed for protection for over 50 years, but now we risk losing a major part of it, forever. The proposed development would irreparably damage one of the last large greenspaces in urban Halifax.
Time is running out—will you speak up for Sandy Lake?
If everyone does just one of these possible actions below, the people will be heard:
Visit the Save Sandy Lake website to send a letter to the Premier. There you will find a form letter to guide you with a few clicks. Done. (If you prefer, letters in your own words are stronger, and all you really have to say is that you want him to save Sandy Lake by not putting housing there)
Yes, Nova Scotia needs more houses, but it makes no sense to put them in an area needed to protect this precious Regional Park. Ask that the Sandy Lake Special Planning Area be removed from their housing development list, and instead be protected as park.
The facts are in. Ordinary citizens can give the political leaders the political will to do the right thing. This is a democracy, but it only works if people speak up.
We urgently ask people across the province to please take a few minutes for Sandy Lake and Sackville River.
Nova Scotia Environmental News
Unama’ki Institute receives funding for climate adaptation
Mi’kmaw communities in Cape Breton (Unama’ki) are strengthening their ability to respond to climate change with support from the Province.
The Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources has received $893,750 to lead climate action rooted in Mi’kmaw knowledge, community priorities and culturally relevant approaches.
The Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources will use the funding to:
develop a climate change action plan for the five Mi’kmaw communities in Cape Breton
hire a Mi’kmaw climate change co-ordinator and project assistant
create education materials in English and Mi’kmaw founded on Mi’kmaw knowledge
develop a climate change monitoring program using culturally relevant indicators
Nova Scotia to do own study of 3 areas with uranium deposits without drilling or digging
Nova Scotia will move ahead with its own geological study of three areas with known uranium deposits, despite an apparent lack of interest from the mining industry in exploring those lands.
A spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources told CBC News the province won't grant any mineral exploration licences for the areas, which were part of a recent request for proposals.
"Our research won't be intrusive and it won't involve any digging or drilling," spokesperson Adele Poirier said in an email.
No set deadline for company's cleanup plan for shuttered Nova Scotia mill
Nova Scotia’s environment minister said Thursday there is no set deadline for Northern Pulp to submit a cleanup plan for its shuttered mill site near Pictou, N.S.
Tim Halman told reporters following a cabinet meeting that the next step for the insolvent company is to submit a reclamation plan for the site that will be assessed by his department.
“Once we have the specifics of the plan, we will have more to say,” Halman said of his department’s expectations for the mill site cleanup.
N.S. opposition call government out over withholding environmental racism report
Nova Scotia’s provincial opposition parties are criticizing the government for continuing to keep a year-old report on environmental racism out of the public eye.
Their comments came after Becky Druhan, minister responsible for the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives, told reporters Thursday that government has requested a meeting with the environmental racism panel that created the report to “discuss with them before sharing any additional information.”
The report was completed by an eight-member panel appointed in June 2023 to look at how racism affects a community’s natural environment in Nova Scotia.
Don't forget that you can check out the NSEN Job Board at any time to see the latest job opportunities with NSEN members. Submit a new position or apply today!
Are you passionate about turning complex climate data into meaningful community action? Coastal Action is seeking a skilled and motivated Project Coordinator to support its growing 3D Flood Hazard Visualization and Communication Program — a forward-thinking initiative helping communities across Nova Scotia plan for climate resilience through interactive tools.
This full-time position, based in Mahone Bay, NS, offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of climate adaptation, community engagement, and environmental communication. The successful candidate will help lead workshops, facilitate collaborative working groups, develop public-facing materials, and support the design and implementation of visual tools that make flood risk understandable and actionable.
The role requires strong organizational skills, critical thinking, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Experience in workshop facilitation, public speaking, and climate change communication is essential. A background in environmental science, geomatics, community planning, or a related field is preferred, and familiarity with GIS, mapping, or knowledge mobilization is a strong asset.
This is a great opportunity for someone looking to apply their climate adaptation expertise in a collaborative, community-focused nonprofit environment with the potential for long-term impact.
Position: Project Coordinator, Climate Change Team Start Date: August 2025 Location: Mahone Bay, NS (hybrid work options available)
Application Deadline: Position will remain open until filled.
Centre for Local Prosperity: Communications Coordinator
The Centre for Local Prosperity is seeking a part-time Communications Coordinator to collaborate with us to reach, connect with, and engage a wider and more diverse range of people across Atlantic Canada and beyond to spread the message about the re-localization movement and strengthen our local communities & economies!
As the Programs Coordinator, you’ll play a key role in supporting the Institute’s operations and helping shape its future during an exciting time of growth. Reporting to the Management Committee, you will wear many hats—from managing day-to-day administration to developing and supporting innovative programs on and off the Island.
You’ll be joining a small but passionate team, currently led by the President, and a network of dedicated volunteers. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys building systems and relationships, and is eager to contribute to meaningful work with long-term impact. You will work out of SII’s office in Halifax with the option for working remotely one day a week. The role also includes 1-2 working visits to Sable Island per year.
Application Deadline: Position will remain open until filled.
TransCoastal Adaptations/Saint Mary's University: Manager of Accounting and Financial Wellness
TransCoastal Adaptations: Centre for Nature-Based Solutions (TCA) at Saint Mary’s University is seeking a full-time Manager of Accounting and Financial Wellness to provide day-to-day financial accounting of TCA operations, financial oversight and administration of funded projects, training and mentorship of staff to manage their project budgets as well as support the overall financial wellness of TCA and associated staff and students.
Canadian Climate Institute: Research Associate, Mitigation
The Research Associate will support the Director and the Research Lead in identifying research to improve climate change mitigation policy in Canada and executing research projects, including conducting literature reviews, providing core data synthesis and analysis, writing content for Institute publications, collaborating with Adaptation and Clean Growth teams, contributing to research communications strategies and supporting stakeholder engagement.
The Managing Director (MD) plays a critical operational leadership role within the organization, working closely with the Executive Director and leadership team to ensure the smooth, effective, and accountable day-to-day functioning of the organization.
While the Executive Director is primarily responsible for setting the strategic vision, representing the organization publicly, and leading high-level partnerships and fundraising, the Managing Director ensures the systems, resources, and structures are in place to deliver on that vision. The MD oversees internal operations, team management, financial processes, and administrative functions to ensure alignment with the organization's strategic plan and long-term sustainability.
This is an ideal role for someone with strong operational leadership experience, excellent organizational skills, and a collaborative, team-oriented approach to problem-solving.
Have you visited NSEN's Volunteer Hub yet? This tool is a powerful one-stop-shop where NSEN members can post volunteer positions and our network of volunteers can view and apply for opportunities that fit their interests. Submit a new position or apply today!
The Association is looking for a new Treasurer to manage our modest annual budget. This is a board-level position, and training will be provided to ensure a smooth transition. The Treasurer’s responsibilities include preparing brief financial reports for monthly board meetings, compiling more detailed statements for final grant reports and year-end summaries, paying regular bills and expenses, and advising the board on financial matters. Attendance at monthly board meetings is also expected.
Nova Scotia Adopt-A-Highway: Litter Clean-Up Volunteer
The NS Adopt-A-Highway and Great NS Pick-Me-Up Programs are looking for volunteers to register for litter clean-ups. We provide free clean-up supplies and facilitation for planning your clean-up. Clean-ups can take place on roadways, parks, trails, shorelines, and more!
Nova Scotia Biodiversity Caucus: Steering Committee Member
The Nova Scotia Biodiversity Caucus is a collection of ENGO representatives and individual citizens who meet regularly to network, collaborate, combine resources, and advance shared priorities.
The Caucus is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our Steering Committee and help shape impactful biodiversity initiatives in the province.
As a Steering Committee member, you will collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to strengthen efforts to protect and educate about biodiversity, guiding the Caucus' work and ensuring meaningful change in conservation efforts.
This volunteer position supports the East Hants Chapter by co-leading monthly nature events, helping with planning, communication, and running engaging nature-based and conservation activities for kids aged 8–14.
Call for Participants: Climate Relocation Research Study
Have you been permanently relocated due to climate-related risks? If you're 19 or older and living in Atlantic Canada, you may be eligible to participate in a research study led by PhD student Robin Willcocks-Musselman (Dalhousie University, School for Resource and Environmental Studies), under the supervision of Dr. Kate Sherren.
The study explores people’s experiences with climate-induced relocation and involves two interviews:
A 30–45 minute online call
A 1–1.5 hour in-person interview at a location near you
Participants will receive a gas card to cover any travel costs for the in-person interview. All information will be kept confidential. Ethics approval: DAL REB# 2025-7855
Interested? Contact Robin at rwillcoc@dal.ca or 902-818-7653 to learn more.
Outdoor Performance: Icarus, Falling of Birds Gale Force Theatre invites you to a powerful outdoor performance of Icarus, Falling of Birds, taking place at York Redoubt and the Ross Creek Centre for the Arts in Canning.
Inspired by the work of Harry Thurston and Thaddeus Holownia, this poetic, large-scale production features giant puppetry, a live string trio by Blue Lobelia, a reading by the poet, and a youth ensemble of performers. The piece reflects on the tragic 2013 mass death of migratory birds in Saint John, NB, and invites the audience to move through the landscape as the performance unfolds.
🎟️ Pay-what-you-can tickets available at galeforcetheatre.ca or via the Ross Creek Centre for the Arts website.
Save the Date: South Shore Labour Day Celebration Join the South Shore Labour Council for their annual Labour Day Event on Monday, September 1, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM at Privateer Park, 94 Henry Hensley Drive, Liverpool.
This family-friendly event celebrates the social and economic achievements of workers in Canada — from paid vacation and pensions to workplace rights and safety. Expect live music, great food, and a wide range of local organizations sharing information, fundraising, and connecting with the community.
🎉 Free hot dogs and beverages will be provided by the Labour Council, with Special Olympics Lunenburg-Queens hosting the food booth.
📣 This year's theme: A Canada for Workers: Made Here! Paid Here! ☔ Rain or shine — come prepared for the weather!
Good Climate News in Atlantic Canada
Climate Stories Atlantic is a unique online digital platform dedicated to providing people in Atlantic Canada with articles, podcasts, and columns on good news climate initiatives happening right here in our own backyard. Our free content is shareable, copyright-free and available for use by any publication. You can also sign up for free to be notified when new articles are available -- and you can unsubscribe at any time.
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