NSEN updates, member news and events, calls to action, green job opportunities, and more!
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NSEN News & Updates

Member Updates

Calls to Action

Nova Scotia Environmental News

Green Job Opportunities

Volunteer Opportunities

Other Information

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NSEN Updates

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Webinar: Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release: Exploring the Work of Hope for Wildlife

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Don't miss our upcoming webinar on November 14 from 7-8 PM featuring George Ryan, Senior Education Coordinator at Hope for Wildlife! Join the Nova Scotia Biodiversity Caucus for the next instalment in our educational webinar series as we delve into the important work of this charitable organization dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation and education. Since 1997, Hope for Wildlife has rescued and rehabilitated over 80,000 injured and orphaned wild animals. In this engaging session, you'll learn about their mission, the significance of wildlife rehabilitation, and how you can contribute to conservation efforts in your community. Register now to secure your spot and be part of this vital discussion.

 
 
Join the Nova Scotia Biodiversity Caucus!Biodiversity%20Caucus%20Promo%20(1).pngJoin 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 November 13th from 2-3 PM.

 

Join the Nova Scotia Water Caucus at our quarterly meeting!

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The Nova Scotia Water Caucus will be convening for our quarterly meeting on November 13 from 12-1 PM! 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 email us at info@nsenvironmentalnetwork.com to join the meeting and learn more.

Together, we can make waves in protecting Nova Scotia’s water resources!

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Member Updates

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New polling shows that Nova Scotians want real action to protect our coasts.
According to recent polling conducted by Narrative Research on behalf of the Ecology Action Centre, 86 per cent of Nova Scotians see coastal protection as important. Two-thirds (68 per cent) of Nova Scotians think the government should implement the Coastal Protection Act (CPA). Even among the government’s own conservative voters, nearly half want to see the CPA implemented! 

 

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Portable Programming

It's not too late to book a program for this fall! We're offering portable touch tank programs, perfect for classroom visits and after school programs (i.e girl guides and other clubs). 
Each portable tank program comes with a collection of local intertidal life, in addition to naturalized specimens and ocean themed plushies for lots of hands-on opportunities! 
Learn more about our portable programs below and book yours today! 

 

Birthday Parties

Are you shell-ebrating a birthday this fall? Do you want to party with ocean life? A birthday party at the centre could be a dream come true!
Each party starts with an hour of interacting with the animals and learning about our ocean in an immersive way, followed by an hour of cake and exploring the centre.
These parties can happen rain or shine, as the centre will be your own private venue to explore! 

 

Auction and Fishmas Market

The leaves are slowly changing and that means Christmas is right around the corner! To shell-ebrate and get in the holly jolly spirit, we are hosting our 5th annual 'Tis the Sea-son Auction to raise funds for our 2025 season. 
Save the date, the auction begins November 6th and will conclude with a special Fish-mas market on November 21st. More details soon!
If you or someone you know has the capacity to donate to our auction, it would be much appreciated! Please reach out to our Manager, Sarah (info@backtothesea.ca).

Are you a local business looking to make those Christmas sales without paying crazy table fees? Please email Sarah to get involved in our Fish-mas market!

 

 

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Annapolis Waterkeepers, now a registered non-profit, has released their October newsletter, featuring updates on the organization’s work and insights into the Arlington Heights Construction & Demolition site, including its environmental impact and effects on surrounding communities.

 

 

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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.

 

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Dig In 2.0 (Atlantic Food Systems Summit) 
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!
 
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Upcoming Opportunies

Check out these upcoming opportunities from Hike NS:

  • Nov. 12: Trails of Mainland NS Book Launch, Halifax
  • Nov. 14-23: Hiking for the Holidays Online Auction
  • Nov. 20: NS Walks Walk Leader Training, online
  • Nov. 20: Intro to Dehydrating for the Trail Webinar
  • Dec. 14: Field Leader - Winter Leadership, Halifax
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Coastal Action’s Coastal and Marine team, in partnership with the Kespukwitk Conservation Collaborative, is raising awareness about the connection between recreation and the health of coastal ecosystems, particularly for seabirds. While enjoying Nova Scotia's coastal islands, it’s essential to minimize human impact on these vulnerable habitats to protect nesting and migratory birds. Simple actions, such as maintaining a distance of at least 100 meters from birds, keeping pets leashed, and reducing noise, can significantly help. To learn more about being a responsible steward of these environments, click here or view the poster here.

 

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Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are the heartbeat of our organization, infusing it with laughter, energy and care. We are so grateful for these invaluable contributions, which enable the Deanery to fulfill our efforts to create positive change in our community.

We have short and long term opportunities for a wide range of skill levels and interests. They include:

1. Gardens and trails for occasional work parties, or for regular longer term projects with our garden gurus Colleen and Jim. Both are a wealth of information about growing and gardens, and generous about sharing their experience.

2. Hosting and helping with special events like our Monthly Open Houses.

3. Building, maintenance and grounds work.

4. Skill sharing! We love celebrating the diverse and unique skills of our community.

Please be in touch if you would like to be involved and fill out our interest form here.

 

Check out the posters below for more upcoming events and opportunities from The Deanery Project! The next Food Box day (see below) is November 27.

 

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Calls to Action

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Help the Ecology Action Centre protect Nova Scotia's forests!

We need your help to protect Nova Scotia's forests: Did you know that forests—including old-growth forests—have been cut and burned in Nova Scotia in the name of so-called "green energy?" We can't afford to keep destroying our forests when we need them most. 

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Let the Houston government know that the best way for trees to help us meet our climate goals is to leave them standing. 

 

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Be an #OceanWarrior! Help Scotian Shores gather important scientific data.

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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!

Request your 24 x 16 inch "lawn" sign through this form.

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...

Request the downloadable, printable PDF through this form.

Please help us post Save Sandy Lake signs all over the Province, and send letters to the Premier asking him to Save Sandy Lake.

And as always, Coalition steering committee members are happy to work with you on a guided hike, in-person presentation, or online talk for your organization about the state of the Sandy Lake –
Sackville River area, and its future. Just get in touch through sandylakecampaign@gmail.com.

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Nova Scotia Environmental News

  • New class lets N.S. students explore environmental science through a Mi'kmaw lens

A new environmental science course rooted in Mi'kmaw knowledge and principles is being expanded to 13 schools across Nova Scotia this year. 

Schools including Mi'kmaw on-reserve educational organizations as well as Acadian and English school boards are part of the second phase of the Netukulimk 12 pilot.

The course gives Grade 12 students the opportunity to engage with the concept of netukulimk — a Mi'kmaw term describing sustainable use of the natural bounty provided by the Creator, while ensuring the land's prosperity for future generations. 

 

  • Retreat from the coast: Nova Scotia prepares to move iconic road to adapt to climate change

The Nova Scotia government is preparing to move an iconic strip of coastal road that has been repeatedly battered by storm surge, marking the latest example of a need to modify public infrastructure to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Lawrencetown Road, also known as Highway 207, slopes down from a headland just west of Lawrencetown Beach and comes within a few metres of the high-tide line. 

 

  • Halifax is looking to bring more trees to lower-income communities

There are about 2.5 million trees in the municipality, but not every neighbourhood shares the benefits that come with such a vast canopy of leaves.

 

  • Researcher says it might be better to leave some old N.S. mine tailings undisturbed

The Montague Gold Mine on the outskirts of Dartmouth, N.S., is full of toxic waste from historical mining that ended in the 1940s.

The mine produced more than two tonnes of gold in its day, but high levels of mercury and arsenic were the result.

With growing environmental concern, Build Nova Scotia promised to start to clean up 60 historical mine sites next year, which will cost at least $148 million. 

But one researcher says the best approach to remediation might be to leave some wetland tailings alone.

 

  • Record-breaking Halloween temperatures hit the Maritimes

Parts of the Maritimes experienced an unusually warm Halloween, with temperatures in some areas breaking 100-year records.

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Green Job Opportunities

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! 

 

  • Ecology Action Centre: Finance Project Manager

The EAC is seeking a Finance Project Manager to lead and mentor their Finance Team, which provides essential support to staff working on various projects funded by multiple sponsors. This role oversees financial accounting, budget development, and clear financial reporting, enabling informed decision-making and risk management for staff, funders, senior leadership, and the Board of Directors. This position offers an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting impactful environmental projects through strategic financial oversight.

Application Deadline: November 24.

 

  • The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq: Marine Liason

The CMM is seeking a Marine Liaison to represent and strengthen connections between mainland Mi'kmaq communities and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG). This role involves coordinating information on programs such as Search and Rescue and Marine Environmental Hazards Response, supporting CMM’s initiatives under the Oceans Protection Plan. The Marine Liaison will enhance marine safety, response capacity, and environmental protection within Mi'kmaq traditional territories, helping safeguard community members on the water and protecting culturally significant sites and the marine environment.

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

 

  • Atlantic Action: Atlantic Action Organizer

Atlantic Action, in partnership with The Salal Foundation, is a new organization dedicated to promoting a just and equitable energy transition for Atlantic Canada. They are seeking an Atlantic Action Organizer—a bold, purpose-driven individual with a strong vision to build and support a network of stakeholders across the region. This role is an exciting opportunity to drive sustainable, inclusive energy solutions that benefit Atlantic Canadians, focusing on the connections between energy, affordability, and economic development.

Application Deadline: November 4.

 

  • Saint Mary's University: Adaptation Pathways Researcher (postdoctoral fellowship opportunity)

Saint Mary’s University is inviting applications to a one-year postdoctoral fellowship focused on developing Adaptation Pathways for coastal climate adaptation. This is a collaborative project with CLIMAtlantic.

Application Deadline: November 26.

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Volunteer Opportunities

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!

 

  • Nature Nova Scotia: Moose Research Contributor

Volunteer with Nature Nova Scotia to conduct a literature review on moose health, behaviour, and ecology!

Commitment: TBD

 

  • KAIROS Halifax: University Animator

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: Program Volunteer

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.

Commitment: 3-6 hours per week (as needed).

 

  • Canadian Environmental Network: Board Member

The CEN is seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Directors. 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.

Commitment: TBD.

 

  • 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!

Commitment: 2 hours per clean-up registered.

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Other Information

  • 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.

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  • 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.

 

  • Funded PhD Position: Food Waste, Climate Change and Municipal Law
Applications are open for a funded PhD position at Dalhousie University, focusing on food waste, municipal law, and the circular economy. The role, supervised by Dr. Jamie Baxter, offers $45,000 per year for up to two years. Apply through the Schulich School of Law (deadline Dec. 1, 2024) or the Interdisciplinary PhD Program (deadline Nov. 22, 2024). For details, click here.

 

  • Clean Foundation: Indigenous Wage Subsidy Initiative
Employer applications are 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.

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