The MODL office in Cookeville, NS. Photo: Evan Taylor
The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is taking early steps to better understand the implications of uranium exploration near its northern boundary.
Following questions from residents and concerns raised by councillor Alison Smith, council has asked staff to prepare a summary report outlining the provincial process around uranium exploration and potential impacts to the local watershed.
The area in question lies near the headwaters of the Lahave River, which supplies water to many in the region. Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile says while the municipality has no decision-making power over mineral development, council felt it was important to be informed.
“This is not about supporting or opposing anything at this point,” McLean-Wile said in an interview. “It’s about understanding what steps are taken in an exploration process, who’s responsible for what, and what information exists around environmental impacts—especially for water.”
Council was divided during its discussion, with some members saying the issue belongs squarely with the province, and others stressing the need to stay informed if residents are raising concerns.
The mayor noted that the request is for a high-level overview—not a detailed technical review—acknowledging staff already have a full workload.
“This is very much a first step,” she said. “We’re not making any decisions on uranium development. We’re trying to understand the process and potential implications, particularly for areas that matter to our community, like the watershed.”
Final decisions about exploration and mining lie with the provincial and federal governments. However, McLean-Wile says the municipality could eventually pass along feedback to the province, should council choose to do so.
For now, the focus is on gathering information so councillors can better answer questions from the public.
