A group of landowners in eastern Nova Scotia has voiced their opposition to a proposal to establish North America’s inaugural coastal sanctuary for whales retired from amusement parks. The landowners express discontent with how the provincial government approved the project, contrasting the dissenting voices with two other landowners who argue that the initiative has garnered significant support within their small oceanside community.
Recently, the Nova Scotia government granted a 20-year lease to the U.S.-based Whale Sanctuary Project for 83 hectares of Crown lands and coastal waters in Wine Harbour, N.S. This move marked progress for the long-awaited privately funded project, which gained global attention after the closure of Marineland in Ontario left 30 belugas in need of a new home. While there is speculation that some belugas may find refuge in Nova Scotia, the project still faces hurdles such as obtaining permits and raising the necessary funds.
In Wine Harbour, where the sanctuary is proposed, certain landowners have raised concerns about the lack of unanimous consent from affected parties as required by provincial policy. Tracy Burns-Gagnon and Maureen Fraser, representing families with properties in the area, sent a letter of protest to Premier Tim Houston, expressing outrage over what they perceive as prioritizing a foreign organization over local property owners. They fear losing access to the ocean, impacting their fishing and boating activities.
Despite claims of broad local support for the sanctuary, Burns-Gagnon and Fraser argue that not all residents back the project, especially those with deep roots in the community. They emphasize that their family, prominent in Wine Harbour, has generations-long ties to the land that would be directly affected. While some residents like Tammie Vautour support the initiative, citing its potential economic benefits for a region with limited opportunities, others, including Burns-Gagnon and Fraser, remain skeptical.
The project, endorsed by the municipality and the Mi’kmaw Chiefs, aims to promote ecotourism and conservation, attracting visitors while safeguarding the environment from potential threats like mining. Jake Chisholm, another local property owner, views the sanctuary as a historic opportunity that could revitalize the area economically. Amidst differing opinions and concerns, the community grapples with the potential impacts and benefits of the proposed whale sanctuary.
