An overhead look at Coastal Action's living shoreline in Mahone Bay, NS. Photo: Coastal Action.
Nova Scotia municipalities are being invited to apply for new funding to help plan for the impacts of climate change along the province’s coast.
The Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities (NSFM) has launched the Coastal Planning Support Program, part of the province’s Future of Nova Scotia’s Coastline initiative.
The program provides each municipality with $20,000 worth of consulting services to support local coastal land use planning, with extra funding available for joint regional projects.
Consultants can help municipalities interpret coastal and climate data, develop planning strategies, support public engagement, and guide risk management decisions.
NSFM President and Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood said municipalities are on the front lines of climate adaptation and need resources to plan responsibly for the future. “This program provides the resources they need to plan responsibly and collaboratively for the future of Nova Scotia’s coastline,” she said.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Tim Halman said protecting the province’s coastline is a shared responsibility. “The Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities plays a vital role in supporting local governments as they plan for the future and protect residents and property from the impacts of climate change. By delivering this program directly to municipalities, NSFM is helping ensure coastal protection plans and by-laws are locally driven, evidence-based, and designed to build safer, more resilient communities.”
To help municipalities get started, five information sessions will be held across the province to outline eligibility, available supports, and how municipalities can access consulting expertise.
Funding for the $1 million program is being provided by the Government of Nova Scotia and administered by the Department of Environment and Climate Change.
Applications are now open through the NSFM website.
