Stewardship
Protecting sensitive habitat for shorebirds and other coastal wildlife with the assistance of landowners and landusers.
Unlike most other jurisdictions in Canada, Nova Scotia’s
public lands comprise only a small proportion of the province.
Over 70% of the land in the province is privately held, and
the proportion of coastal land in private hands is even higher.
Consequently, recruiting the cooperation of private landowners
and recreational users is essential to the success of conservation
efforts in Nova Scotia.
Land-based activities can affect shorebirds. While in Fundy, migrating shorebirds require undisturbed sections of beach to rest during high tide. Furthermore, mud-dwelling creatures -- food for shorebirds -– only flourish in specific types of sediment. Human activities that damage resting or feeding habitat, or limit the ability of shorebirds to use such areas, threaten the well being of shorebirds.
The Fundy Shorebird Project (2000 – 2004) worked closely with landowners to maintain areas for shorebirds in the Minas Basin. The
project curtailed human disturbances at critical sites by
negotiating informal stewardship agreements with owners of
sensitive land. By entering into stewardship agreements, landowners commit to manage their property in a manner that is consistent with shorebird conservation.
Many citizens are making a conscious commitment to conserve habitat in the Minas Basin for migratory shorebirds by observing ecologically
favorable land use practices. Practices, such as leaving undeveloped areas of shore front, restraining pets, and avoiding areas where shorebirds are active, help maintain habitat for shorebirds while allowing all to enjoy the Minas Basin.
Today, many private landowners and coastal visitors are contributing to efforts to conserve the natural integrity of the coast in Nova Scotia. These people ensure their activities leave wildlife and their habitat undisturbed: they are active stewards of the land. |
 Stewards in Grand Pre, N.S. display their support for shorebird conservation.
Photo: Donald Sam |
Introduction
Monitoring
Interpretive Program
Who’s Involved
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