Join the Nova Scotia 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 October 9th from 2-3 PM.
We’re thrilled to invite you to the upcoming meeting of the Nova Scotia Water Caucus this Fall 2024 (date TBD)! These gatherings bring together professionals and passionate individuals from across the water sector to discuss pressing water-related issues, share updates on ongoing initiatives, and foster collaboration on new projects and partnerships.
If you’re passionate about water and interested in becoming a regular member or contributing as part of our Steering Committee, please reach out to us at info@nsenvironmentalnetwork.com for more details.
Together, we can make waves in protecting Nova Scotia’s water resources!
Nova Scotia is holding municipal elections on Oct. 19, 2024. The Ecology Action Centre has prepared toolkits for voters and stakeholders in Halifax Regional Municipality and rural municipalities. In them you’ll find guides to key environmental issues in your region, questions to ask candidates related to each topic, what to look for in a good answer and more resources. A toolkit for Cape Breton Regional Municipality is coming soon!
EAC Workshop: Electric Buses for Atlantic Canadian Children
On Saturday, Oct. 5 from 1-3 p.m., join us for a family-friendly educational workshop exploring the benefits of electric school buses for children's health and the environment! This hybrid event will feature presentations from a panel of experts from the health and electric vehicle sectors, the launch of a new report on the health effects of gas and diesel-powered buses and the introduction of a toolkit for parents, teachers, school stuff, bus drivers, students and policymakers. Plus, there will be an interactive educational session for kids!
Free snacks, childcare and youth programming will be available on site for in-person attendees. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and engage with your community!
Back to the Sea Centre's Animal Release Party is here! Join us Saturday September 28th at 10:30am at Black Rock Beach in Point Pleasant Park to kelp us release our animals back to their home. This is a free* BYOB (Bring Your Own Bucket) event which is sure to be fintastic fun for the whole family! Sea you there!
*Registration required (free)
Unable to make this event but still interested in seeing some local marine life? Email info@backtothesea.ca to inquire about fall programming!
On September 3rd, the Nova Scotia Nature Trust announced what is poised to be the largest acquisition of privately owned coastline in Nova Scotia’s history. This historic milestone in land conservation will add nearly 1,034 hectares (2,556 acres) to our province’s coastal legacy: Cape Negro Island, now successfully protected, and the Blanche Peninsula, which can be saved by the end of September if we can raise sufficient public support.
This announcement – both a celebration of success and a call to action – comes at a time when Nova Scotians are increasingly aware of the growing need to protect our coastline. Saving Blanche Peninsula is the Nature Trust’s most ambitious conservation project in our 30-year history. But with only 5% of our coast protected, over 85% privately owned and facing unprecedented threats, and the urgent global call to action in saving land, particularly the coast, we have to act. Blanche Peninsula is likely the last chance to protect intact coastal habitat at this scale anywhere in Nova Scotia.
Free event! Join us for a day of learning, action, and connection as we come together to address climate change.
Taking place on October 2nd, kicking off Senior’s Week and respecting October 1st - Treaty Day.
All Ages Welcome!
Date and Time:
October 2nd, 2024 | 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
St. Andrew’s United Church Hall, 6036 Coburg Rd, Halifax (Kjipuktuk)
Drop in briefly, or stay all afternoon. Hear from experts on the critical impacts of fossil fuels on our environment, health, and future. Learn how climate change is affecting your quality of life right now and what can be done to make a difference. From rising health concerns to extreme weather events, the effects of global heating are real—and seniors feel the impact. Later is too late!
Let's get back to basics! Would you like to learn how to save money, be more resilient and build relationships with your neighbours? We've got you covered! Join us on October 5th to learn from 20+ Skillers. each teaching a valuable and practical craft, skill, or trade. Skillers will be teaching:
Refurbishing tools and handle making with a shaving horse
...with more to be added soon!
The Festival is jointly hosted by Transition Bay and the Town of Mahone Bay. Registration costs $15, available through Eventbrite. We hope to see you there!
Yarmouth Himalayan Blackberry Removal Pilot Project
Himalayan blackberry (Rubus bifrons) is a massive invasive blackberry that outcompetes native plant species and impedes recreational activities. It produces 12 m long canes that grow on each other, creating a dense, thorny, impenetrable barrier. This plant was first discovered in Nova Scotia in 2022 but, unfortunately, has been present in the province for several decades. Currently, it is only known in Yarmouth and Digby counties. Since the discovery of Himalayan blackberry in Nova Scotia, the NSISC has been mapping the presence of this species in collaboration with the Southwest Nova Scotia Biosphere. On August 20-22, the NSISC led a pilot removal project to test the efficacy of different removal techniques. The site chosen for removal is located on Water St., Yarmouth, near Killian’s Wharf. The plants at this site were over 2 m tall in some areas! Over one full day and two half days, the four NSISC members removed 14 full Ford F150XL truck bed loads of Himalayan blackberry material. The above-ground biomass was removed by hand using shears and loppers. Leveraged-based tools, called Extractigators, were then used to pull out the roots. The site will be monitored to determine the effectiveness of the different removal techniques. The NSISC would like to thank the Southwest Nova Scotia Biosphere and Yarmouth Parks and Recreation for supporting this project.
Hester-Dendy Settling Plates Aquatic Settle Plates, sometimes called Artificial Substrates, are passive monitoring devices constructed to observe organisms in an aquatic environment, such as a lake or stream. As part of our Zebra Mussel Monitoring Project, the Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council Aquatics Team constructed 30 Hester-Dendy settling plates. These plates are deployed in lakes with a higher risk of invasive aquatic species introductions, such as the Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) or the Quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis). Each device consists of a series of closely spaced, parallel PVC plates. The plates create multiple settling surfaces, allowing suspended particles and organisms, like free-swimming microscopic larvae, called veligers, to settle more efficiently on the “artificial substrate.” The settling plates are left in the water for a period of time and then retrieved for visual inspection and eDNA swabbing to determine the presence of aquatic invasive species. This passive monitoring method is a component of a larger project that involves a Human Connectivity Risk Assessment for Zebra and Quagga Mussels in Nova Scotia, a pilot monitoring project, delivery of outreach and educational resources, and the development of Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) and Management plans to protect Nova Scotia’s waterways from aquatic invasive species.
Register for the Wildfires, Climate Change & Invasive Species Conference!
Following record-breaking wildfire seasons across North America, this 1-day virtual conference will bring together government, industry, academia and Indigenous leaders from across Canada and the United States to explore the destructive interaction between climate change, wildfires and invasive species.
Join us on Tuesday, November 19th for an international event that will highlight diverse perspectives while we explore risks, develop prevention strategies, discover novel solutions, and forge meaningful connections across sectors and borders.
November 22-24, 2024 on Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island) in Charlottetown.
Dig In 2.0 will gather food systems stakeholders from across Atlantic Canada to convene and collaborate towards increased food security, sovereignty, and resilience in the region.
More information and tickets can be found on Eventbrite or on the Food Summit website!
SeaLight SkyLight has been a much loved all-ages arts and science festival at the Deanery Project since 2013. The annual celebration, October 5th, 2:00 - 11:00 pm, draws inspiration from the area’s naturally-occurring ocean bioluminescence, and the Eastern Shore's fabulous dark night sky. The family friendly festival brings together live music, workshops, displays, and a candle lit procession with guests down to the waterfront. New this year, we are collaborating with Music Declares Emergency and Rock the Bike to turn our Solar Kiln into a pedal-powered stage! Tickets for the event are on sale now.
"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...
Nova Scotia's climate action plan falls short: report
A new report published by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives says Nova Scotia's plan to curb greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change is falling short.
The report, released Monday, considers a 2022 plan from the PC government that details how it intends to reach its legislated climate goals.
Lobster fishing industry reps remain concerned about illegal fishing
A hastily organized meeting with senior Fisheries Department officials on Tuesday did nothing to quell concerns among commercial lobster industry representatives about illegal fishing and insufficient enforcement along coastal communities.
The meeting came together hours after people attending a gathering of the Maritimes Region Lobster Advisory Committee in Dartmouth, N.S., walked out in protest when a motion to change the agenda to deal only with enforcement and illegal fishing was rejected.
Kelp wanted: Why researchers are adding seaweed to cattle's diet
Cows are not known to have seafood in their diet, but a team of federal scientists in Nova Scotia started introducing some to seaweed in hopes it could help in the fight against climate change.
The focus? The cattle's burps.
The Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada project involved feeding 16 cows varying amounts of seaweed at a research farm in Nappan, N.S. It found that by replacing only one percent of the cows' regular feed with kelp, researchers discovered that it reduced the methane emissions from cow burps by as much as 15 percent.
This life preserver withstood Fiona. Now, it will be a reminder of the effects of climate change
A pop-up exhibit at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly aims to show world leaders a physical representation of the damage caused by climate change, including a piece of history from Port aux Basques and post-tropical storm Fiona.
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!
East Coast Environmental Law: Administrative Coordinator
This role offers a unique chance to work alongside experienced environmental lawyers and gain valuable insights into the legal aspects of environmental protection. Responsibilities include administrative duties such as organizing meetings and events, supporting donor communications, administering student programs, and more.
The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq: Renewable Energy Coordinator
The Renewable Energy Coordinator will report to the Program Manager and will be responsible for providing information and building capacity within the Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq's member Mi'kmaq communities on various topics, including renewable energy. The coordinator will conduct outreach activities, offer advice, organize training opportunities and knowledge sharing, and manage project logistics.
Nova Scotia Nature Trust: Content & Marketing Specialist
The Content & Marketing Specialist will create and execute strategies to boost Nature Trust’s brand awareness, crafting compelling narratives and marketing campaigns to engage new audiences. With expertise in writing, design, and video editing, they will generate content on conservation and climate change, while tracking analytics to refine efforts. This hands-on role includes supporting social media and donor communications, and leading projects that inspire support from donors, volunteers, and landowners.
Nature Canada is seeking a consultant to guide the development of our next five-year strategic plan. This plan will set our vision, outline our overall goals, and establish a clear plan to achieve them, all while aligning with our key values, including our commitment to reconciliation, equity and anti-racism.
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!
KAIROS Halifax is seeking a University Animator to help promote their social justice events and activities among university students and help find ways to work together on common interests related to social justice such as environment and climate justice and human rights.
Commitment: 2 flexible hours per week, attend monthly meetings if possible.
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.
RCEN is accepting nominations for a key position on our Board of Directors: Treasurer. The Treasurer plays a pivotal role in RCEN, overseeing the financial health and sustainability of the organization. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the direction of RCEN and make a national impact on collective efforts to protect our environment and strengthen environmental policy. Submit nominations by October 28, 2024.
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!
Sustainable Capacity Solutions: Capacity Building Information Session
Join Sustainable Capacity Solutions (SCS) for a capacity building information session on November 14 at 4 PM EST. This session will provide insights into recent structural changes, details about Eco-Internship’s 2025 Intern Support Program, and opportunities for organizations to reflect on their capacity needs. Click here for more information.
EJ4Climate Grant Program Now Open: US$1.5M Available for Education, Environmental Justice, Climate Adaptation
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation’s EJ4Climate Grant Program is now accepting applications for projects focused on "Community-led education programs to increase environmental justice and climate adaptation knowledge." With up to C$175,000 in funding available, this grant supports underserved and Indigenous communities across North America. Applications are due by November 14, 2024, and selected projects are expected to begin in Spring 2025. Learn more and apply here.
Employer applications are now open for the 2024 Indigenous Wage Subsidy Initiative!
As part of the Indigenous Energy Project, this Indigenous Wage Subsidy Initiative ("IWSI") is designed to facilitate the hiring of Indigenous individuals (15 or older) residing in Nova Scotia into qualifying positions within the clean energy or clean economy sectors. Employers can receive a subsidy covering up to 80 per cent of the employee’s salary (up to $10,000 per employee, for a period of two to eight months). Apply today!
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.
Call for Submissions: Workers of the Warming World Unite! Poetry Anthology
Has your job, workplace, industry, or livelihood been affected by changing environmental conditions? We are seeking submissions of up to three poems about work in the age of global warming, written by working people in so-called Canada about labour they have done themselves. New and previously unpublished poets welcome! Click here for more information including upcoming writing workshops.
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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.
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