Home / Environment / Nova Scotia's Coastal Whale Haven: Groundbreaking Amidst Protest
Nova Scotia's Coastal Whale Haven: Groundbreaking Amidst Protest
20 Jun
Summary
- Groundbreaking ceremony held for North America's first coastal whale refuge.
- Project faces construction delays and ongoing lease negotiations.
- Local landowners express opposition, citing loss of ocean access.
A symbolic groundbreaking ceremony took place in eastern Nova Scotia for North America's first coastal refuge for captive whales. The U.S.-based Whale Sanctuary Project plans to construct a 40-hectare floating net enclosure in Wine Harbour. This event, attended by local residents and a dozen protesters, signifies a move towards construction after years of regulatory reviews and permitting processes.
Despite the ceremony, the project faces continued setbacks. The installation of nets, originally planned for summer, is now scheduled for next spring. Additionally, the provincial government is still finalizing the 20-year Crown lease for the site. Construction of supporting facilities will occur on private land, while the lease pertains to the net anchoring area.
Some neighboring landowners in Wine Harbour feel betrayed, as they were initially informed that unanimous consent from adjacent property owners was required for cabinet approval. They cite concerns about losing ocean access for fishing and boating due to the refuge's proximity.
Further delays are anticipated due to the presence of endangered barn swallows nesting at the wharf, prohibiting work until they depart. The project also requires federal permits and substantial fundraising to cover $15 million in construction costs and $1.5 million in annual operating expenses, with organizers seeking no government funding.
