Small Craft harbours in Nova Scotia, Canada: Examining Livelihoods Beyond the Commercial Fishery

Abstract

Canadian small craft harbours (SCHs) are vital for connecting the commercial fishery with the global economy. Without the presence of SCHs, many rural communities would fail to sustain individuals’ livelihoods. This research will examine the role SCHs play for users and their communities in Nova Scotia through a media analysis and 19 semi-structured interviews with SCH users across the province. Using both an inductive and deductive coding process and the theoretical framework of sustainable livelihoods approach, the results indicate that SCHs in Nova Scotia are essential facilities for their communities both in the economic and social realms. SCHs for most participants are key sites for sustaining one’s livelihood and the livelihood of the community. However, some SCHs are not seen as vital for several reasons such as being underfunded or needing repairs. Despite the exploratory results, these analyses provide a baseline understanding for future research.