News release

Place Name Data Going Online

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

A new Internet resource was unveiled today, May 22, that makes it easier for Nova Scotians to learn more about their province, its geography and its history.

"A wealth of geographical and historical information will now be available -- for free -- to students and educators, professional geographers and anyone around the world who has an interest in Nova Scotia," said Peter Christie, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations is the province's central repository of mapping and geographical place name data, and represents Nova Scotia on these matters at the federal level.

The Web site uses a simple search engine to help visitors find the information they're looking for. For example, searching on the word "Amherst" yields five results, including municipal units and a migratory bird sanctuary. Selecting the town brings up a Web page with a map showing where in the province the town is located, a brief history of the community, and geographical reference points.

In addition to communities, visitors can also search for information about lakes, rivers and streams, and other geographical features. There is also an explanation of the process to establish a place name, some place name trivia and links to similar or related Web sites around the world.

A feature unique to the online Gazetteer is a "Did You Know?" page that is designed with primary to junior high school students in mind.

"We're really proud of this site and how easy it is to use," said David Wills, provincial co-ordinator, geographic names. "We are making this information freely available over the Internet, while virtually eliminating our production and distribution costs."

The print version of the Gazetteer had a relatively small audience and it was too costly to print and distribute. In 1993, copies sold for $30 each and the price did not fully cover production costs. The online version is cheaper to produce and more accessible to a wider audience.

"Moving from books to bytes will make it easier to keep the information up-to-date, and to share with people interested in Nova Scotia," said Mr. Wills.

The new resource is available at www.nsplacenames.ca .