Nature conservation on private land in Nova Scotia

Abstract

Conservation of nature is vital to the maintenance of the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the Earth. At present, most nature conservation programs in Nova Scotia focus on either federal or provincial crown land. Despite this focus, about three quarters of the land area of Nova Scotia is privately owned, and contains many ecologically significant sites and features. Private land conservation is a strategy that has been used successfully throughout North America to complement traditional conservation efforts. It may offer great potential in Nova Scotia, although there are several issues that must be addressed to ensure its success. In this case study, I evaluated the attitudes of landowners in Hants County, Nova Scotia, and individuals involved personally or professionally in private land conservation across the province, in order to identify critical issues for successful private land conservation. These issues include a need for the following: data upon which to base private land conservation efforts; adequate and appropriate supporting mechanisms and infrastructure including funding and incentives, conservation tools, and institutional options; education of landowners and the general public to increase legal, political and public support for private land conservation; integrated planning and coordination of efforts; and a landowner-centered, community-based approach in all private land conservation efforts.