News release

West Mabou Beach Provincial Park

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

A new provincial park has been designated at West Mabou Beach, located in Inverness County.

Ernest Fage, Minister of Natural Resources, made the announcement today.

"This property contains one of Nova Scotia's finest coastal beach and dune systems in a spectacular scenic setting and is a prime example of the type of Crown land that needs to be protected for future generations," said Mr. Fage. "We recognize the need to protect this area in order to preserve its ecological integrity and values."

Located on the western shore of Cape Breton, the 276-hectare site contains many rare and unique topographical features within the coastal and highland scenery. The combination of these characteristics makes West Mabou a significant resource for public recreation.

"We cannot overstate the importance of nature to tourism and to our quality of life," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "The vast majority of visitors come to Nova Scotia because of our natural environment, and access to the coastline is a critical part of the Nova Scotia experience."

The addition of this new park complements the provincial park system spanning Nova Scotia. As dedicated provincial parkland, West Mabou will become significant because of its unique beauty. This will enhance the area's appeal as a tourism destination and as an area for possible development.

Long-term arrangements for developing and maintaining the park will be co-ordinated by the Department of Natural Resources in consultation with the beach committee of the Mabou Area Development Association.