Province Designates Protected Site

The province is celebrating an important part of Nova Scotia's shared history by designating a section of the Belleisle Marsh as a protected site.

The protected section contains significant archaeological artifacts of early French and Acadian settlement before the deportation of the Acadian people in 1755.

"Recognizing the importance of the Belleisle Marsh site helps ensure that it is carefully preserved and interpreted for the benefit of Nova Scotians and visitors," said Tourism, Culture and Heritage Minister Percy Paris. "The designation also enables us to promote its safe enjoyment."

The protected site is a 37-hectare section of Crown land located about 15 kilometres northeast of Annapolis Royal.

"This designation is extremely valuable for the Acadian and francophone community because the site contains traces of settlement before the deportation," said Graham Steele, Minister of Acadian Affairs. "The designation will help the community continue to preserve and promote its unique identity."

The Belleisle Working Group, consisting of community and government representatives, is developing a long-term management plan to manage the site.