Project to protect Mahone Bay, N.S., coastline receives $1.9M

A sunrise is shown in Mahone Bay, N.S. (Betty Meredith / Edgewater Street via Town of Mahone Bay)

A project aimed at protecting the Mahone Bay, N.S., coastline from the impacts of climate change has received $1.9 million.

The federal government is spending $928,000 on the project, while Coastal Action is spending $922,100, and the Town of Mahone Bay is contributing $16,950.

“Mahone Bay is vulnerable to flooding, coastal erosion, and contaminated stormwater runoff entering the harbour due to sea level rise, storm surge, and increased precipitation” a news release says.

Coastal Action, a non-profit environmental organization based in Mahone Bay, is leading the project, which will reduce flooding and mitigate coastal erosion.

The project will include the following:

• a living shoreline – a stabilized vegetated bank that uses native plants and natural materials to prevent erosion while supporting habitat
• a nearshore breakwater – a separate, detached structure that reduces wave energy before it reaches the shoreline
• a tidal wetland
• a raised dyke along 100 metres of Edgewater Street

“With extreme weather events getting worse and more frequent, we must work quickly to protect our communities from the effects of climate change as we build a stronger Canada. This project will ensure that the beautiful harbour town of Mahone Bay remains a safe and thriving community for generations to come,” says South Shore–St. Margarets MP Jessica Fancy-Landry.

The federal money is coming from the Natural Infrastructure Fund, which supports projects that use natural or hybrid approaches to increase resilience to climate change, mitigate carbon emissions, protect and preserve biodiversity and wildlife habitats, and promote Canadians’ access to nature.

At least 10 per cent of the overall program envelope will be allocated to Indigenous-led projects.

The federal funding is conditional on fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous groups and environmental assessment obligations.

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