by: Terry Power
SPRING 1994
In 1991, a Wetlands Stewardship Project was initiated in Nova Scotia under the Eastern Habitat Joint Venture (EHJV) (NS Conservation, Fall 1991). This project allows both individual landowners and corporations to become directly involved in wetland conservation. As its name suggests, the project promotes better stewardship or care given to the land based on a commitment to conservation. Landowner participation is crucial to the success of this initiative and to the health of wetlands.
A stewardship agreement was signed last December to mark the beginning of a new partnership in the conservation of Nova Scotia's wetlands. The provincial government and Scott Maritimes Limited are cooperating in the protection and management of wetlands on approximately 445 170 hectares (1,100,000 ac) of forest land owned by Scott Maritimes and on 80 940 hectares (200,000 ac) of provincial Crown lands under license to the company.
Stewardship agreements are an important tool in achieving habitat protection both here in Nova Scotia and elsewhere. They foster cooperation and understanding among partners, including governments, corporations, private conservation organizations, and individuals. The real gain in conservation is measured in improved land stewardship, by those participating in stewardship programs, and by all landowners.
This contribution to conservation of Nova Scotia's wetlands is the third partnership through the EHJV Wetlands Stewardship Project. The first agreement was signed between the Nova Scotia government and Bowater Mersey Paper Company Limited in 1991. Management plans have been completed for Bowater's four management districts. The second stewardship agreement was signed with Stora Forest Industries Limited of Port Hawkesbury in August 1992. Management plans for Stora's wetlands are nearing completion.
These three agreements secure wetlands on approximately 775 170 hectares (1,914,670 ac) of corporate-owned land and on approximately 580 940 hectares (1,434,922 ac) of licensed crown land. In total, approximately 1 356 110 hectares (3,349,592 ac) are protected by these stewardship agreements, almost one quarter of the total area of Nova Scotia.
The goal of stewardship agreements is to maintain existing wetland habitat and to manage selected sites to enhance the potential for waterfowl, plants, and animals. The agreements provide a framework for wetlands identification, securement, and management. EHJV staff identify and map all wetlands on the corporation's holdings and prepare a management plan that includes guidelines for forest harvesting in relation to wetlands.
Management guidelines focus on maintaining wetland functions by dealing with issues such as buffer zone creation, road construction, and forest harvesting practices. General recommendations are included for beaver management, provision of duck nest boxes, and for wetlands known to harbour rare plants. Site-specific recommendations are outlined for wetlands identified as having potential for active management to increase potential for waterfowl. For these sites, management plans are implemented through legal agreements between the corporation and the Province or Ducks Unlimited Canada.