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NSEN News & Updates
Member Updates
Calls to Action
Nova Scotia Environmental News
Green Job Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
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NSEN Updates
Join NSEN's Growing Network
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 be connected.
As a member, you can: ✅ Join provincial caucuses on key topics like water, biodiversity, and environmental education ✅ Participate in our annual meeting with the Minister of Environment and Climate Change ✅ Share your events, projects, job postings, and calls to action through our newsletter and social media ✅ Highlight your work in free webinars hosted by NSEN ✅ Recruit volunteers through our Volunteer Hub ✅ Connect with like-minded individuals and organizations at NSEN events
If you're a past member, we’d love to welcome you back! If you haven't yet renewed for 2025, now’s the time. And if you're thinking about joining for the first time, there's never been a better moment!
If you’re unsure about your membership status or would like to learn more about joining, please don't hesitate to get in touch. 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
Nova Scotia Biodiversity Caucus
2025 Bioblitz Results
This summer, the Biodiversity Caucus hosted a 70-day province-wide Bioblitz, inviting Nova Scotians to explore and document local biodiversity using iNaturalist.
The goal: to connect people with nature and generate valuable data for conservation and research!
By the Numbers 📸 ~78,500 observations 🌱 ~5,000 species identified 🗺️ Observations from across the province
We’ve selected our Bioblitz winners and are finalizing prize distribution. Stay tuned for a celebration of the winning photo and participants on social media and in next month's newsletter!
A full outcome report will be published soon on the Biodiversity Caucus webpage. Thanks to everyone who took part and helped showcase Nova Scotia’s incredible biodiversity! 🌿
Coastal Action has a new project focusing on the LaHave Islands to Port Medway area!
The LaHave Islands and Port Medway are where nature and community come together. This stretch of shoreline is home to seabirds, shorebirds, marine life, and several species at risk. Beneath the surface, eelgrass beds, salt marshes, and kelp forests keep the ecosystem thriving, while the surrounding waters support valuable fisheries—lobster, tuna, groundfish, herring, mackerel, scallops, and even seaweeds like Irish moss and rockweed.
Beyond ecological importance, the area holds economic, social, cultural, and recreational value, offering opportunities for kayaking, boating, beachgoing, camping, fishing and hiking to name a few.
Well-known protected areas such as Hirtle’s Beach, Risser’s Beach, Cherry Hill, Ragged Harbour, Gaff Point, and islands such as Indian, Selig, Middle, Great, and Cormorant all contribute to the value and importance to the area and communities.
Recognizing its importance, Fisheries and Oceans Canada identified the LaHave Islands to Port Medway area as an ecologically and biologically significant area, with the potential for conservation programs in the future. Coastal Action is working with community members to gather local knowledge to inform this process, engaging stakeholders, rightsholders, environmental groups, academics, and residents to identify knowledge gaps, explore values, and ensure equity and inclusion in shaping conservation priorities.
If you live, work or play in this area regularly, we would love to hear from you! Please help us by contributing your voice to the community. You can fill out our survey or attend some of our outreach events in the area (see dates below)!
October 4th, 2025 at Voglers Cove Community Hall from 11:00 am to 1:00pm
October 7th, 2025 at West Dublin Hall from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
October 26th, 2025 at the LaHave Bakery from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
November 16th, 2025 at the Broad Cove Community Centre from 12:30pm-4:30pm
Free Guided Hikes at Sandy Lake This Fall – See What’s Worth Saving!
You are invited to join a free, guided hike at Sandy Lake Regional Park (Bedford) this fall. On the hike, you’ll learn about the fascinating species of the area, and also what is threatening the lake and surrounding forest. Participants will become equipped to speak up for this amazing place. The hike will start at 9:30 am on September 28. The park can be reached by car or by bus. Learn more and register here.
Letting Nature Lead: CLIMAtlantic’s Bilingual Fall Webinar Series on Nature-Based Climate Adaptation
This fall, CLIMAtlantic is presenting a bilingual online webinar series titled "Letting Nature Lead: Prioritizing Nature in Climate Adaptation." The series highlights the importance of incorporating nature into climate adaptation strategies through expert insights, case studies, and opportunities for discussion and collaboration.
The three-part series began with a session on September 16, and two sessions remain:
🗓 October 15 | 12:00 PM Atlantic Coastal Adaptation: Protecting Nature and Communities Featuring Heather Laiskonis (PEI Watershed Alliance), this session will explore coastal adaptation planning and how nature-based practices and policies can benefit both ecosystems and local communities.
🗓 November 12 | 12:00 PM Atlantic Healthy Ecosystems and Human Activity: Chignecto Case Study Presented by Kelsey Butler (Birds Canada) and Adam Cheeseman (Nature NB), this webinar will examine habitat connectivity and ecological corridors in the Chignecto Isthmus.
Each session includes a 25-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute Q&A. Live interpretation will be available in both French and English, and all webinars will be recorded for later viewing.
This series is designed for those interested in the connections between nature and climate change, and in understanding how nature-based adaptation is being implemented in Atlantic Canada.
Climate Adaptation and Resilience Training: Registration Open for Francophone Atlantic Canadians! As communities are feeling the brunt of climate change impacts, there is an increasing need to adapt and build resilience. The Climate Adaptation & Resilience Training (CART) Program is a foundational comprehensive 12-week training program coordinated by CLIMAtlantic for people new to climate adaptation and working with municipalities or Indigenous communities in Atlantic Canada. Here are the details: ● Registration is now open for our French winter cohort (taking place from January to the end of March). ● The registration deadline is November 30, 2025. ● Spaces are limited. Due to the popularity of the program, priority may be given to municipal and Indigenous community staff and those currently working with them.
For more information, schedules, costs, registration link, etc., visit:
The Scotian Shores Cleanup Project is proud to announce we've cleared over 200,000 pounds of trash from our beautiful coastlines so far in 2025, and we're still going strong! This incredible achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers.
We're always looking for more helping hands! Join us for our upcoming group cleanups:
Blanche, Shelburne County: October 25th & 26th
West Head, Shelburne County: November 1st & 2nd
Even if you can't make a group event, every little bit helps. You can even do your own solo cleanup and report it to our group.
Gerald Trites Book Release: A Strategic Model for Corporate Environmental Action
We are pleased to announce the publication of a new book, Integrated Thinking and Corporate Social Responsibility, that presents a practical model for companies aiming to integrate environmental concerns into their strategic initiatives. While recognizing the value of sustainability reporting, the book argues that reporting alone is insufficient in the face of accelerating climate change and environmental degradation. It offers a framework for moving beyond disclosure to meaningful, actionable corporate strategies that directly address environmental challenges.
The book is now available at the following retailers:
There’s still hope the Premier and Ministers will recognize a better path for Sandy Lake—one that protects its future while allowing housing to be built elsewhere. Please consider writing to them, even if you already have. (details below).
🎥 Watch this: A 10-minute presentation to HRM North West Community Council (Sept 8, 2025) gives a clear overview of the issue. Starts at 1:59:00: https://www.youtube.com/live/aCDd0gjPDwg
🔍 Latest research: The Stantec Land Suitability Assessment, released May 16 (the same day the Province advanced Sandy Lake to Secondary Planning), evaluates development constraints. Secondary Planning is not final approval—but it moves things forward.
Meanwhile, Dr. David Patriquin, a long-time independent researcher at Sandy Lake, has reviewed the background studies on lake water quality—and found them deeply inadequate.
📌 Must-read: Dr. Patriquin’s full analysis and letter to the Province: www.versicolor.ca/missing.html (Click “view documents” at the end to read his full response.)
Key quote: “Sandy Lake is in trouble NOW… [Development] will do it in.”
Let’s keep the pressure on. The science is clear—Sandy Lake needs protection.
It is a step in the wrong direction. X-Twitter: @sandylake_park
We urgently ask people across the province to please take a few minutes for Sandy Lake and Sackville River.
Ask that the Sandy Lake Special Planning Area be removed from their housing development list and instead be protected as park.
Nova Scotia Environmental News
Nova Scotia advocacy group takes aim at province's bid to promote open-net fish farms
A Nova Scotia advocacy group opposed to open-net salmon farms is criticizing the provincial government's new coastal mapping tool, saying it does little more than promote an industry that deserves more scrutiny.
The Healthy Bays Network held a news conference Wednesday, Sept. 10 in a church hall in Dartmouth, N.S., where several experts took aim at the online Coastal Classification System (CCS), unveiled by the province in July.
How Nova Scotia fruit growers are grappling with lingering drought conditions
Apart from one summer in the late 1990s, Peter Elderkin says he can't recall there ever being a growing season quite this dry in Nova Scotia.
"We've never seen anything quite as severe as this," said Elderkin who runs Elderkin's Farm Market, Bakery & U-Pick in Wolfville.
Elderkin says this summer's drought conditions have had major impacts on his orchards, particularly when it comes to the size and colour of the fruit they produce — two of the most important characteristics that determine whether a piece of fruit can be sold or not.
N.S. berry researchers aim to find varieties that can withstand climate change
Upon first walking into the screenhouse at the Kentville Research and Development Centre, a casual observer might simply see rows of regular strawberry plants.
But a closer look shows plenty of variety. There are large leaves, small leaves, taller plants, shorter plants, and different hues of green.
Beatrice Amyotte sees potential in all of these differences. As a research scientist at the centre, it's her job to help develop varieties that both succeed for growers and produce berries that consumers love.
As Canada's climate changes, that task becomes trickier.
Tidal power proponent plans to modify turbine on failed company's vessel
Ottawa-based Oceanetic Power Corporation wants to turn the Bay of Fundy tides into electricity by modifying the turbine on a failed company's vessel.
Just over a year ago Occurrent Power, formerly Big Moon Power, filed for insolvency. The company had secured a test-site berth at the Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy located near Parrsboro, N.S., and a lucrative power purchase agreement with Nova Scotia Power.
Now, Occurrent's key assets, including a vessel known as the Falcon built for $14 million US, are owned by Oceanetic.
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!
RFS Energy Consulting & Research Group: Research Lead
The Research Lead will have the opportunity to gain exposure and contribute to a variety of different topics related to climate change adaptation, energy efficiency and clean energy while building their professional network. The Research Lead will be both supporting and leading components of various research and consulting projects in the area of clean energy and climate adaptation. To be eligible for this position, applicants must self-identify as Indigenous and be between 18 and 30 years of age.
Application Deadline: Position will remain open until filled.
Centre for Land Conservation: Executive Assistant to the Executive Director & Team Support Coordinator
The Executive Assistant supports the Executive Director (ED) by ensuring they are well-prepared for meetings and events, managing correspondence, and acting as a liaison to staff and directors. The role includes secretariat duties for internal and external committees—such as preparing agendas, distributing materials, and drafting minutes—and contributing to ED-led projects like strategic planning and fundraising.
Application Deadline: Position will remain open until filled.
The Fundraising Manager will lead and oversee the fundraising program of the Green Party of Canada, ensuring the development of effective strategies to grow revenue and strengthen donor engagement. Reporting to the Communications Director, the Fundraising Manager will supervise the Fundraising Coordinator and collaborate with the Communications Team. The Manager will also work across departments to ensure fundraising is integrated with membership, communications, and organizing priorities.
Pickled Pink Traditional Food and Drink: Entrepreneur Fermenter
Pickled Pink Traditional Food & Drink, a well-loved small business specializing in sauerkraut, pickles, and uniquely delicious kombucha, is looking for a new owner to take the reins. Operating since 2012 at the Halifax Brewery Farmers’ Market, with a loyal customer base and strong sales data, this part-time business offers great returns and potential to expand into retail or additional markets. All branding, permits, recipes, and procedures are in place, and full training will be provided. We're seeking someone detail-oriented and tidy—food experience is helpful but not essential. Terms are flexible, and we’re committed to supporting a successful transition.
Application Deadline: Position will remain open until filled.
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!
ESCOM & The Deanery Project: Social and External Communications
This volunteer role aims to increase public visibility of the Eastern Shore Citizen Science Coastal Monitoring Network's (ESCOM) mission, activities, and outcomes by managing its external communications, ensuring community awareness, and public engagement across the Eastern Shore and beyond.
Commitment: Up to three hours per week when only monitoring activities are planned. Up to three extra hours per week when special field visits or events are organised.
Halifax North West Trails Association: Membership Chair
Are you looking for a way to become more involved in the Halifax North West Trails Association? If so, perhaps serving on the Board as Membership Chair might be just the right opportunity for you!
The Membership Chair is a two-part job. The Membership Chair receives applications from new and renewing members and maintains membership records. Secondly, the membership chair assists in recruiting new members for HNWTA. The Membership
Chair is an important member of the Board team and is expected to attend about 10 Board meetings a year. If you are committed to the establishment and maintenance of trails in north-west Halifax, you are a detail-oriented person who enjoys administrative tasks, you are willing to support membership recruitment with ideas and energy, and you would enjoy working with a team of dedicated trail members, this could be an ideal volunteer position for you.
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.
This volunteer opportunity with KAIROS Halifax involves promoting social justice events and activities among university students and building connections around shared interests such as environmental and climate justice and human rights. Volunteers will help enhance the accessibility and reach of KAIROS Atlantic’s social media platforms, including Facebook, and link KAIROS Halifax with relevant campus events and groups. Ideal candidates will have strong communication and computer skills, including social media proficiency, and be comfortable networking with other student-led social justice initiatives.
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.
You're Invited: Wild Nova Scotia Screening at Saint Mary’s University
Join the TransCoastal Adaptations Centre for Nature-Based Solutions for a special screening of Wild Nova Scotia (Season 3, Episode 9 – Wetlands) on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 4:00–5:30 PM in SB260 (Scotiabank Interactive Lecture Room), Sobey Building, Saint Mary’s University.
This episode highlights local nature-based climate solutions and features contributions from Tony Bowron and Kayla Williams (CB Wetlands & Environmental Specialists), Jonathan Fowler (Saint Mary’s University), and Joanna Skomorowski (Nova Scotia Nature Trust).
Event Schedule:
4:00–4:15 PM – Welcome
4:15–4:35 PM – Episode screening
4:35–4:50 PM – Q&A with featured guests
4:50–5:30 PM – Reception with light refreshments
This event offers an opportunity for partners, students, faculty, and community members to connect and celebrate the work being done to restore and protect Nova Scotia’s wetlands.
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