Wildfires Prompt Sweeping Summertime Restrictions Across Nova Scotia

On August 8th, 2025, Nova Scotia finds itself in the grips of an unprecedented summertime crisis. Faced with the ongoing threat of wildfires that have already scorched millions of hectares across the country, the province has taken drastic action to protect its residents and natural resources.

Premier Tim Houston has announced a moratorium on a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, mining, and forestry. The ban, set to last until at least mid-October, applies to both public and private lands, with violators facing hefty $25,000 fines.

The restrictions have dealt a heavy blow to the province's adventure tourism industry. Jonathan Kanary, the manager of a local outdoor company, Live Life InTents, has been forced to turn away customer after customer, many of whom had traveled from across the country or even overseas to experience Nova Scotia's natural wonders.

Nearby, the renowned Capes 100 trail race has been cancelled, leaving organizers to issue deferrals and partial refunds to dozens of participants. Parks Canada has also closed pathways and boat services in the Cape Breton Highlands and Kejimkujik National Parks, along with several historical sites.

The situation has been exacerbated by the region's unusually dry conditions, with the Halifax Regional Water Commission warning customers to conserve water as reservoirs struggle to replenish. Locals have noticed the stark changes, with one outdoor store manager, Steve Maly, observing dust billowing behind runners on trails where it would never have been seen before.

While Nova Scotia has faced only around 100 smaller wildfires this season, the province is taking no chances, with Premier Houston acknowledging that the "situation sucks" but emphasizing the need for decisive action to protect lives and property.