Brieanna Limkilde has joined as NSEN's Program Coordinator for the summer of 2024. Brieanna has a Master's in Environmental Management and is eager to leverage her skills to support NSEN members and bolster the environmental movement in Nova Scotia. Brieanna is eager to support the Biodiversity Caucus and Water Caucus in their initiatives. For inquiries or to connect with Brieanna, please send an email to info@nsenvironmentalnetwork.com.
Join the Biodiversity Caucus!
Join the Biodiversity Caucus at our monthly meeting to connect with like-minded individuals, learn about exciting projects, and collaborate to advance biodiversity work across the province. Whether you're an NGO leader, an academic, or an enthusiastic individual, your passion for protecting biodiversity is what we need.
Reach out to us at biodiversity@nsenvironmentalnetwork.com for more information. If you're already convinced, complete our interest form and we'll connect with you as soon as possible. Let's make a difference together! The next meeting will be held on August 14th from 2-3 PM.
We are very excited to welcome Coastal Action as a NEW NSEN member! Coastal Action has worked for over 29 years to protect the environment through research, monitoring, restoration, community engagement and education! They have 5 teams that do amazing work for our environment in areas including: Species at Risk & Biodiversity, Environmental Education, Watersheds & Water Quality, Coastal & Marine, as well as Climate Change. Learn more about the inspiring work of Coastal Action on their website!
Coastal Action's Making Waves Campaign
Join our #OutOfTheOcean campaign to save our seas!
The future of our local marine industries depends on a clean and sustainable ocean. One of our oceans' biggest challenges is the debris we leave behind.
Did you know that globally, every year, 640,000 to 800,000 tons of fishing gear are lost or abandoned in the oceans? This gear continues to catch fish and other marine species, leading to what is known as 'ghost fishing.'
It's time to turn the tide. The 'Out of the Ocean' campaign is a collaborative effort to remove ghost gear from our waters and secure a sustainable future. We're uniting companies in Canada to support Coastal Action in removing ghost gear from Canada’s East Coast.
You can help Coastal Action by visiting www.makingwaves.blue to donate, volunteer, or spread the word until September 2024.
Together, we can significantly impact and ensure a better future for our oceans. Join the #OutoftheOcean campaign today and help continue this great work.
Coastal Action’s Promoting Responsible Recreation on Coastal Islands
Coastal Action is raising awareness about the importance of responsible recreation on our coastal islands. Recreation offers more than just economic benefits - it provides opportunities for eco- tourism and stewardship. Additionally, responsible recreation enhances well-being, improves quality of life and supports ecological health.
When done mindfully, recreational activities can help protect ecosystems, preserve open spaces, and increase awareness of our natural areas. However, improper use of coastal islands and disturbances from recreational activities can have serious negative impacts:
Protection of Bird Species: Noise and disturbances, such as boat noise and increased human traffic, can disrupt wildlife, particularly nesting birds and marine mammals, leading to changes in their feeding and reproduction patterns.
Impact on Nesting Seabirds: Disturbances around nesting sites can force seabirds to abandon their nests, leaving eggs vulnerable to predators and environmental conditions.
Loss of Seabirds and Habitats: The decline of seabird populations and their habitats is detrimental to the overall health of coastal islands, as these birds play a crucial role in sustaining ecosystems.
Water Quality Concerns: Pollutants like oil, fuel, and sewage discharged into the water can degrade water quality and harm marine life.
Erosion and Wake Effects: Wave action generated by boats can contribute to erosion and destabilize coastal ecosystems, impacting the integrity of shorelines.
How YOU Can Help Protect Our Shorelines:
Be mindful of the surrounding environment and reduce disturbances.
Keep an appropriate distance from species (minimum of 100m).
Keep dogs on leashes.
Walk on the wet sand and avoid dunes, vegetation, and nesting areas.
Reduce noise disturbances (e.g., fireworks).
Consult nesting seasons before planning your trips.
Become island stewards, protecting and nurturing the islands you visit regularly.
We urge everyone to be mindful of their impact to maintain the resilience of our coastal island ecosystems and ensure their prosperity for future generations.
Hike Nova Scotia invites groups across NS to partner with it on delivering fall guided hikes and walks from September to November 2024. 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 11 for events between September 13 and November 17.
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 got to support Hope for Wildlife's efforts to help injured and orphaned wildlife in Nova Scotia.
The Back to the Sea Centre is open for the season! Visit the Back to the Sea Centre, located in Martins Park in the white building (right beside the Shubenacadie Canal!).
For those who prefer to learn by listening, our new audio guide covers the same essential information in a convenient format.
These resources were developed in response to the high volume of inquiries ECELAW receives annually regarding injunctions from individuals and community groups. We trust they will serve as valuable public tools.
The Ecology Action Centre is offering free energy audits for faith buildings across Nova Scotia until Wednesday, July 31. Energy audits are on a first come, first served basis. You will get a detailed energy report with recommendations and customized advice qualifying you to apply for Efficiency Nova Scotia rebates.Sign up now at ecologyaction.ca/form/energy-audits.
The Deanery Project is recruiting new volunteers to join them on Helping Hands Wednesdays. For more information, please send us an email at thedeaneryproject@gmail.com.
Calls to Action
Signage: Request or Print a Sign
"Whether you have a lawn, a balcony, or a window, you can help demonstrate just how many people care about what happens around Sandy Lake. The land and water that stretch from the Hammonds Plains Road to the Sackville River, all around Sandy Lake, has long been identified for protection as a park. This area is currently threatened by development planned in the Sandy Lake Special Planning Area. We need lots of signs, across Nova Scotia, to raise awareness of this threat and instead call on government to Save Sandy Lake!
Would you rather print your own sign? That's great too! Post it at home, on your community bulletin board or send it to friends, the possibilities are endless...
DFO seeks feedback on draft of Atlantic Salmon Strategy
Fisheries and Oceans Canada drafted a national Atlantic Salmon strategy with a goal of restoring and maintaining Atlantic salmon populations and habitats. This strategy will have four outcomes for the next 12 years focused on restoration, policy, education, and better management practices.
This draft is based on 12 years of work with Atlantic Salmon and was developed in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples.
Province investing $ 1.8 million to help African Nova Scotian Communities Adapt to Climate Change
Nova Scotia's Environment and Climate Change Minister Tim Halman announced that climate resilience plans will be developed for 25 African Nova Scotian communities.
This includes a greater access to food security and secure housing in the context of climate change.
A new African Nova Scotian Climate Justice Ambassador Program will be created to raise awareness and build climate resilience skills through a series of workshops and activities.
Atlantic Herring quota reduced in the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia
Department of Fisheries and Oceans lowered Atlantic Herring total allowable catch to 16,000 tonnes per season till 2027 to ensure recovery and protection of populations that have been in the "critical zone".
"There is a requirement under the Fisheries Act to rebuild fish stocks in the critical zone within a reasonable time frame."
Ecology Action Centre and Oceans North are in support of new quota.
Nova Scotians invited to share feedback on 16 proposed new or expanded wilderness areas and nature reserves
Nova Scotians are invited to share their thoughts on 16 proposed new or expanded wilderness areas and nature reserves. Designating these sites will be one more step in helping Nova Scotia protect 20 per cent of its land and water by 2030. The Department of Environment and Climate Change launched an online public survey July 19th to collect insights and feedback from Nova Scotians.
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!
The Environment Education Project Coordinator will report to the team lead and be responsible for developing, delivering, and overseeing assigned projects. Furthermore, the Coordinator will plan new learning opportunities such as school activities and day camps, oversee project communications, write reports and grants, as well as support Coastal Action's mission.
Coastal Action: Environmental Education Junior Field Technician
The Environmental Education Junior Field Technician will report to the team lead and be responsible for overseeing the preparation and implementation of all fall environmental education programs. All programs will take place outside and provide opportunities to enjoy nature!
The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq: Renewable Energy Coordinator
The Renewable Energy Coordinator will report to the Program Manager and be responsible for providing information and building capacity within the the Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq's member Mi'kmaq communities on a variety of subjects such as renewable energy. The coordinator will conduct outreach activities, offer advice, coordinate training opportunities and knowledge sharing, as well as coordinate project logistics.
The Project Manager will report to a Director of Research and will be responsible for developing new professional relationships, partnerships, and collaborations. The Project Manager will also oversee the planning and implementation of renewable energy and clean tech research projects, report on progress and financials, write proposals and grants, as well as support other activities to further Net Zero Atlantic's mandate.
The Sustainability Intern will work under the guidance of a Manager and/or Board of Directors. They will also work with an assigned mentor from another environmental group to help guide them in their role. The Sustainability Intern will develop programs, help fundraise, lead communications and social media, support partnerships, and participate in networking opportunities. As part of their role, the sustainability Intern will participate in a mandatory nonprofit internship training program provided by the Capacity Building Institute.
Deadlines vary. Start dates range from July to September.
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!
Volunteer with the staff at the Back to the Sea Centre to engage with visitors looking to get some hands-on learning around the local marine life of Nova Scotia! Come share our passion to spark curiosity about the ocean with our visitors! From touch tanks to crafts in the kids corner, you will be helping us provide an unforgettable experience for every person coming through our doors.
The Halifax North West Trails Association is seeking a secretary to help guide the organization. HNWTA is a small (6-8 member) board focused on education, promotion and use of trails in our neighbourhood. Check out our website to learn more about us. If you don't want to be our secretary consider joining our board as a member at large. We can find other ways to use your skills and interests.
Commitment: 2-3 flexible hours per week, 1 monthly board meeting
Earthub is seeking a volunteer to support their "Items to Keep Out of the Landfill" program through collection of clean prescription pill bottles from their respective communities. Potential duties include setting up a drop-off location, sorting and counting of items, cleaning of items, and promotion of program and fundraising.
Re-Imagining Atlantic Harbours: Love Your Lake Project Advocate
Re-Imagining Atlantic Harbours is surveying Lake Charlotte and Lake Echo this summer. Community volunteers are welcome to learn more! Potential duties include supporting community events, supporting field technicians, designing and delivering story collection opportunities, and promotion of the project!
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!
Climate Story Network: Free Articles on Climate Solutions in Nova Scotia/Mi'kma'ki
The Climate Story Network (CSN) is offering professionally written and edited, copyright-free articles about positive climate change projects in Nova Scotia/Mi’kma’ki.
Explore our latest feature story on Nova Scotia's Thriving Forests program, showcasing efforts to plant 21 million trees across the province in collaboration with private landowners, Indigenous communities, and governmental agencies. Learn how this initiative is contributing to Canada's ambitious tree planting goals, one tree at a time.
CSN delivers content on local initiatives and solutions to community media. The free stories are available to community newspapers, newsletters and magazines, First Nations publications, radio broadcasts, online curators…and anyone else looking to deliver impactful climate content to their audiences. Click here to visit the website.
Environment and Climate Change Canada: Invitation to Join Net-Zero Advisory Body
The Minister of Environment and Climate Change invites Canadians to apply for a unique opportunity with the Net-Zero Advisory Body (NZAB).
The NZAB plays a crucial role under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, offering independent advice on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This includes recommendations on interim climate targets and plans.
As a member, you will participate in briefings, meetings, and engagement activities to shape advice for the Minister, contributing your expertise collaboratively with other members.
Members serve part-time for 1 to 3 years (approximately 3 to 5 days per month) and receive compensation. Interviews start in August, with applications encouraged before September 18th.
We encourage diverse candidates, including Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and youth (18-29), to apply. For inquiries, contact messages@pco-bcp.gc.ca. Apply now and spread the word!
.png)
.png)
(1).png)
.png)
The Ecology Action Centre is offering free energy audits for faith buildings across Nova Scotia until Wednesday, July 31. Energy audits are on a first come, first served basis. You will get a detailed energy report with recommendations and customized advice qualifying you to apply for Efficiency Nova Scotia rebates.
.png)
.png)
.png)
