Tapping Into Nova Scotia's Rock Records
When geologists talk about rock records, chances are they're not discussing Pearl Jam's latest release.
They're more likely referring to the stories told in the earth's geology -- the stories of the early evolution of life on land played out and preserved in rocks.
Few places are as blessed as Nova Scotia in having a richness of these rock records. And the province's maritime geography of dramatic coastal cliffs and powerful tides ensure that these fossils continually come to light.
The province's fossil heritage -- as well as its protection and its development as an economic opportunity -- is among the many topics to be explored next week at the Mining Matters conference in Halifax. The Nov. 8-10 meeting will bring together geologists and community economic development workers from across the province, as well as many others interested in economic growth through the effective use of mineral resources.
"We have to look for ways to maximize the benefits that Nova Scotians receive from their rich geological inheritance," said Natural Resources Minister Ernest Fage. "This means considering new ways of using our resources, such as the tourism potential of our world-class fossil sites, in addition to what we normally think of as mining. Innovative thinking about our geology-related tourism opportunities is required, in addition to continuing Nova Scotia's proud mining history through the sustainable development of the many excellent mineral deposits that exist here."
One presentation at the conference will provide an update on a project dubbed the Fossil Trail. The Cumberland Regional Economic Development Agency, the Colchester Regional Development Agency and New Deal Development of Sydney Mines and surrounding area have all been working toward individual plans aimed at deriving economic benefit from the province's fossil heritage.
"One of our current challenges is to bring these diverse, individual efforts together, while at the same time supporting community entrepreneurship," said Mr. Fage.
Among the 30 or so other topics to be covered at the conference is an overview of the mining industry in Nova Scotia, tips on helping to find tomorrow's mines, and details of a stone sculpture symposium to be held in September 2000.
Nova Scotia's mining industry employs some 3,300 people, mostly in rural parts of the province. Mineral production in 1998 was valued at $347 million.
"Mining has long been a mainstay of Nova Scotia's economy, providing stable high-paying jobs that have sustained many of our rural communities," said Mr. Fage. "Many excellent mineral deposits remain to be developed. In combination with modern technologies and a commitment by all concerned to sustainable development, these opportunities ensure that mining will continue to generate wealth for all Nova Scotians for many years to come."
The Mining Matters conference is being held at the World Trade and Convention Centre, Highland Suites, 1800 Argyle St. The event, open to the public, is sponsored by the departments of Natural Resources and Economic Development in partnership with the Mining Society of Nova Scotia, the Chamber of Mineral Resources of Nova Scotia, and the Nova Scotia Prospectors Association.
For a detailed conference agenda, call 902-424-8633, e-mail nsdnrlib@gov.ns.ca or check the Internet at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/meb.