Healthy Lakes and Wetlands For Tomorrow - Species at Risk

Healthy Lakes and Wetlands For Tomorrow
A landowner stewardship guide for species at risk in Nova Scotia

Healthy lakes and wetlands
for tomorrow
A landowner stewardship guide for species at risk in nova scotiA
M. Crowley
This guide is for everyone interested in conserving and protecting the freshwater and wetland
habitats in Nova Scotia. Although there is a focus on the species at risk that depend on these
habitats, these practices are good to follow no matter where you live and who you share your land
with. Species at risk can act as umbrella species for habitats and ecosystems. By following the
actions in this guide you will not only help to protect the species that are in danger of being lost
from our province but all the creatures in Nova Scotia, including ourselves!
Copyright ©Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute (MTRI), 2009
ISBN 978-0-9811861-0-8
TEXT Megan Crowley
Design and Illustration Jennifer Lee McKinnon
Major funding for this initiative was provided by Parks Canada’s Priority Investment Fund for
Species at Risk Recovery. As new information becomes available the actions suggested in this guide
may be modified and updated. All information in this guide is superseded by federal and provincial
legislation.
Visit www.speciesatrisk.ca to view and download an electronic version of this guide. This site will
be updated to include additional information and recent events.
This guide is printed on 100% post consumer recycled paper that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council
(FSC). FSC certified paper comes from forests that are responsibly harvested to meet the ecological, social,
and economic needs of the present and future generation. This guide is printed with vegetable based inks,
which significantly reduce the amount of volatile organic compounds released into the air during printing.
These measures reflect our commitment to reduce the impacts to our precious and fragile planet.

STEWARDS IN ACTION
Checking for hatchling turtles Rare plant monitoring Lake shoreline steward Turtle naming contest winner
Turtle survey
Plant survey
Turtle nesting crew in Pleasant River
Red Wolf Singers on Turtle Day
Looking for nesting turtles
Searching for Eastern Ribbonsnakes
Measuring an Eastern Ribbonsnake
Radio tracking hatchling turtles
Weighing hatchling turtles
Receiving an award of recognition Rockrose survey At the volunteer banquet
Coastal Plain Flora Monitoring
Piping Plover Guardians
Measuring hatchling turtles

WHY WE MUST ACT NOW
When I was born, the human population of the world numbered three billion people. Now, it has
doubled to over six billion. If I am fortunate enough to become an old man, the world population
may well double again. This is unprecedented – the world’s population doubling twice in a single
lifetime. It has never happened before, and it is unlikely to happen again. The world just can’t
sustain it. This single fact, more than any other, means that it is our generation that must change.
We must act now, or we risk the well-being of our children, and we risk the well-being of the many
creatures that share this amazing planet with us. Fortunately, there is much we can do.
I am a practical optimist, which may explain why I work on species at risk. Endangered plants
and animals can tell us much about how to live in a sustainable way – they give us reason to be
optimistic. The most important lesson I have learned from species at risk is very simple - we must
share the planet and we must be aware that we are part of the natural world, not external to it. To
act in this way is to become a steward. A steward is a person aware of the past use of the lands
and waters, and mindful of the future – a person wanting to leave things in a state better than they
found it. We can all become stewards of the natural world.
Stewardship is not difficult. In fact, it is very rewarding. This guide provides ideas about how
to live with species at risk in Nova Scotia. It describes a way of living that most of us would be
very comfortable adopting. If we can live with species at risk, making a place for these rare and
wonderful species to thrive with us, then we have already tackled many of the world’s challenges
head-on. It starts in our own backyards. I urge you to adopt stewardship as a way of life. Let’s
work together to make Nova Scotia an example to the world – a place where we live in harmony
with nature, a place where we have a sustainable future for our children.
Stephen Flemming
Species at Risk Scientist
Parks Canada

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Getting Started 1
Stewardship......................................................................................................................2
Species at Risk.................................................................................................................................3
Species at Risk Legislation................................................................................................................4
Research and Stewardship: Working Together...................................................................................5
How to Use This Guide......................................................................................................................6
Sensitive Habitats 7
Lake Shorelines................................................................................................................................8
Wetlands........................................................................................................................................8
Blanding’s Turtle Habitat.................................................................................................................9
Eastern Ribbonsnake Habitat..........................................................................................................10
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora Habitat.................................................................................................10
Mi’kmaki: The Lands That We Share 14
How You Can Help on Your Land 15
Sensitive Habitats
Lake Shorelines.........................................................................................................................16
Wetlands..................................................................................................................................20
Estuaries..................................................................................................................................21
Activities
Lawn and Garden......................................................................................................................23
Dock Building............................................................................................................................26
On-Site Sewage Systems............................................................................................................29
Motorized Vehicles....................................................................................................................31
Wildlife and Pets......................................................................................................................35
Forestry Practices......................................................................................................................39

Activities cont’d
Agricultural Practices.................................................................................................................43
Recreational Activities...............................................................................................................47
Thinking Ahead 48
Tracking Your Progress....................................................................................................................48
Planning for the Future: Working With Your Land............................................................................48
Appendices 50
Appendix A: Identification and Range Information..........................................................................50
Appendix B: Species locations in Nova Scotia..................................................................................55
Appendix C: Contact Information....................................................................................................58
Appendix D: Permits and Developmental Restrictions.....................................................................60
Glossary...............................................................................................................................62
Steward Sketches...........................................................................................................................63
Acknowledgements........................................................................................................................64
Stewardship Stories
The Turners....................................................................................................................................19
L’sitkuk Environmental Youth Group...............................................................................................22
Carter Feltham...............................................................................................................................25
Caroline Power and Phyllis Westbury..............................................................................................28
The MacInnises..............................................................................................................................34
The MacQuarries............................................................................................................................38
Pat Hudson and Lillian Perry...........................................................................................................42
The Coles.......................................................................................................................................46
PREVIOUS PAGE: Stewards searching for Blanding’s Turtles; THIS PAGE: Sweet Pepperbush along the shore.

GETTING STARTED
This landowner stewardship guide is about living with species at risk, specifically
the Blanding’s Turtle, Eastern Ribbonsnake, and 11 plant species that are part of a
group called Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora. These species are at risk of disappearing
from Nova Scotia and they need your help. Landowners like you have the unique
opportunity to participate in species at risk stewardship right in your own
backyard.
THIS GUIDE WILL:
• Provide ways to protect and preserve our wetlands and water resources.
Suggest actions that people can take to help species at risk and the habitats they
•
depend on.
Help to maintain a healthy environment for you and your family, and those who
•
use the land after you.
Nova Scotia range for Blanding’s Turtles, Eastern
Ribbonsnakes and the 11 Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora
species highlighted in this guide. These species are
found in similar lake shoreline and wetland habitats.
They are found in southwest Nova Scotia with the
exception of the New Jersey Rush (found in Cape
Breton) and one Eastern Lilaeopsis population in
Cumberland County. Southwest Nova Scotia is home
to over 80% of the species at risk in the province.
1

STEWARDSHIP
Stewardship is an ownership of responsibility for the environment. It means caring for the land in
a responsible way to ensure that healthy ecosystems are passed on to future generations. Habitat
stewardship for species at risk involves land use practices that maintain or recover the quality and
amount of habitat required by rare species. Anyone who contributes to the health of the world
around them, and takes action to look after it, is a steward.
WHY IS STEWARDSHIP IMPORTANT
Habitat loss is typically the main reason why species are put at risk. Activities such as lake shoreline
modification, road building, forestry practices, cottage development, agricultural practices, and
wetland alteration result in large-scale habitat loss and can negatively impact wildlife species.
Cottage development has more than tripled in some areas of Nova Scotia in the past 50 years and
is continuing to increase today.
As the amount of undisturbed land continues to dwindle, it becomes even more important to
consider the way that our practices modify the land. By following the actions in this guide, you
will help the species that share your land with you, and help to maintain the native biodiversity in
our province. You will also receive benefits such as a healthy environment for you and your family,
clean drinking water, and increased property values. There has never been a better time to get
involved, become a steward, and make a difference for species at risk and our natural heritage.
M. Crowley
We often think of endangered species as animals such as the panda bear and
tiger, but species at risk are in our own backyards and we can help them.
M. Crowley
There are many ways to enjoy your land - some are harmful to the environment, while others can be
quite helpful. It is up to each of us to decide whether we will live as a part of nature, or apart from it.
M. Crowley
2

SPECIES AT RISK
Thread-leaved Sundew
Wood Turtle
Monarch Butterfly
Eastern Mountain Avens
Canada Warbler
ENDANGERED
THREATENED
SPECIAL CONCERN
ENDANGERED
THREATENED
Species at risk are plants and animals that may not exist in the future and need our help. Most
species are at risk because of human activities and can recover if we reduce the threats to their
survival. Species are assessed by experts and are listed under federal and/or provincial laws if they
are determined to be at risk of becoming extinct. There are over 500 legally listed species at risk
in Canada, over 40 in Nova Scotia, and almost 20 in our coastal and offshore waters.
Once a species is determined to be at risk it is placed in one of six status categories depending on
how close it is to extinction within Nova Scotia or Canada. The six categories are as follows:
EXTINCT
EXTRIPATED
ENDANGERED
THREATENED
VULNERABLE/SPECIAL CONCERN
NOT AT RISK
No longer living anywhere on the planet.
No longer living in a particular region (province,
country) but still exists elsewhere.
Facing imminent extinction.
Likely to become endangered if the threats to its
survival are not reversed.
Sensitive to activities that may make it endangered or
threatened.
Not at risk of extinction.
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora
The term Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora describes a
group of plant species that are mainly restricted
to the relatively flat land along the Atlantic coast
from Florida to Nova Scotia, known as the Atlantic
coastal plain. The eleven species in this guide are
at risk, while an additional 27 species are sensitive
to becoming at risk if the threats to their habitat are
not mitigated. For a third of these species (including
all 11 at risk), the only place they occur in Canada
is in Nova Scotia. They are very special and found
right in our backyard!
Golden Crest
M. Crowley
WHY CARE ABOUT SPECIES AT RISK
All living things, big and small, have intrinsic value. Each species in an ecosystem is connected to
one another and contributes to the biodiversity of the area. If an animal or plant is in decline the
reasons that are causing its decline will likely affect other species, including us. The environment
looks after us all - trees provide fresh air to breathe and wetlands purify and clean our water.
Species at risk act as indicators of the health of our environment and if they are impacted we will
ultimately be as well. We need to take care of our environment so it can take care of us, and all
that depend on it.
3

SPECIES AT RISK LEGISLATION
It is important to know that there are laws that protect species at risk and their habitats. The
federal Species at Risk Act and the provincial Nova Scotia Endangered Species Act work together to
protect species at risk and their habitats on the federal, provincial, and private lands and waters in
Nova Scotia. Under these laws you cannot harm, disturb, or destroy a species at risk or its habitat.
These laws require governments to complete strategies to recover species at risk.
RECOVERY PLANNING
Recovery Teams: Species listed as endangered or
threatened have recovery teams composed of individuals
from universities, government, communities, aboriginal
organizations, industry, and conservation groups.
Recovery teams meet on a regular basis and make
recommendations on how to best protect and recover
species at risk.
Recovery Strategies and Action Plans: A recovery strategy is a document that sets long and shortterm
recovery goals, identifies threats, and designates areas of critical habitat. Once a recovery
strategy is completed, an action plan is created which outlines what projects and activities will
be performed to fulfill the goals of the recovery strategy. These documents highlight stewardship
opportunities that can contribute to recovery.
To view a copy of the Blanding’s Turtle, Eastern Ribbonsnake, or multiple-species Atlantic Coastal
Plain Flora recovery strategies, visit www.speciesatrisk.ca/recovery.
CRITICAL AND CORE HABITAT
The Species at Risk Act and Nova Scotia Endangered Species Act require the identification of habitat
that is important to species at risk. This is called “critical habitat” (Species at Risk Act), and “core
habitat” (NS Endangered Species Act). Critical and core habitat is the habitat essential for species
survival and recovery. Property owners with critical or core habitat on their land must ensure that
their actions do not impact or destroy this habitat.
WHAT WILL I HAVE TO DO DIFFERENTLY IF MY LAND IS IDENTIFIED AS CRITICAL HABITAT
In most cases, you will have to change very little. As a landowner, you cannot destroy the habitat
required by these species, but there are many things that you can do to enjoy and benefit from
your land that will not affect the habitat for these plants and animals. It is all about learning to
share your land with species at risk, who also call it home.
JURISDICTION LEGISLATION ASSESSMENT BODY STATUS CATEGORY
Species at Risk
Act
Nova Scotia
Endangered
Species Act
N/A
Committee On the Status of
Endangered Wildlife in Canada
(COSEWIC)
Nova Scotia Species at Risk
Working Group
General Status Assessment
Team
Extinct, Extirpated, Endangered,
Threatened,
Special Concern, Not at Risk
Extinct, Extirpated, Endangered
Threatened, Vulnerable,
Not at Risk
Blue (Extinct/Extirpated), Red (At
Risk), Yellow (Sensitive), Green
(Secure), Grey (Undetermined)
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Nova Scotia Endangered Species Act: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/legislation_nsesa.htm
Federal Species at Risk Public Registry: www.sararegistry.gc.ca
4

RESEARCH and STEWARDSHIP: Working Together
The 40+ species at risk in this province cover large geographic areas and require energy intensive
actions. Researchers and biologists can’t recover these species by themselves - they need help!
Landowner stewardship can significantly influence the recovery of species at risk, and many
dedicated stewards are already giving their time and energy to local recovery actions. If you are
interested, you can too!
There is ongoing research and monitoring of Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora, Blanding’s Turtles, and
Eastern Ribbonsnakes. You may encounter students and researchers studying these species in your
area - please feel free to talk with them about their work. For more information on the ways you
can be involved in species at risk recovery projects contact the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute,
1-866-727-3447 or 902-682-2371.
EXAMPLES OF RESEARCH AND MONITORING
• Tracking Blanding’s Turtles with radios and GPS to learn about nesting travel routes, summer
habitat, and overwinter areas.
• Monitoring Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora populations to record yearly differences in numbers.
• Surveying Eastern Ribbonsnakes to determine habitat preferences and travel routes.
• Locating and protecting Blanding’s Turtle nests from predators.
Stewardship Stories
Read stories about landowners who are making a difference in
the Stewardship Stories throughout this guide. If you know a
steward who you think should be recognized please contact the
Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute.
B. Caverhill
M. Crowley
D. Smith
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
J. Sutton
FROM TOP LEFT: Radio tracking Blanding’s Turtles; Eastern Ribbonsnake visual survey; students studying Plymouth Gentian; checking for
hatchling Blanding’s Turtles in Pleasant River; measuring Water-pennywort; weighing a hatchling turtle.
5
Eastern Ribbonsnakes are harmless semi-aquatic snakes that feed on small fish, tadpoles, and frogs

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
This guide is a resource that works alongside recovery strategies and federal and provincial
legislation. Although there is an emphasis on Blanding’s Turtles, Eastern Ribbonsnakes, and Atlantic
Coastal Plain Flora, the actions suggested in this guide are good practices to follow no matter where
you live and who you share your land with. The permit and Act information is relevant for all lands
in Nova Scotia and is not restricted to land with species at risk (Appendix D).
The actions suggested in this guide are good practices to follow
no matter where you live and who you share your land with.
GUIDE SECTIONS
Sensitive Habitats: Describes and defines lake shorelines and wetland habitat and the specific
areas within this habitat that is used by Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora, Blanding’s Turtles and Eastern
Ribbonsnakes.
How You Can Help on Your Land: States actions you can take in sensitive habitats (such as lake
shorelines and wetlands) and activities (like dock building and agricultural practices) that will help
to maintain species at risk habitat and benefit all wildlife and our planet.
WETLANDS
Wetlands act as living filters and sponges. They maintain high water quality by filtering
out sediments and chemicals and supply clean water to important underground sources.
They soak up water during periods of high precipitation, reduce the chances of flooding,
and release water during times of drought. Wetlands are areas of high biodiversity and are
home to a diverse number of species that require this habitat to live and survive.
Thread-leaved Sundew
Long’s Bulrush
Golden Crest
Blanding’s Turtle
Maintain the natural vegetation around wetlands.
Without this vegetation, your wetland will not be able to properly function as a living filter and sponge.
This will result in decreased water quality and wildlife habitat. This vegetation will also allow the wetland
to naturally expand and contract during wet and dry seasons. Having 100 m (330 feet) of natural vegetation
around the wetlands on your property is ideal, however any amount is beneficial- the more the better.
Blanding’s Turtle
The circles show the
species at risk found in the
illustration at the top of the
page. They are mostly of the
species in this guide but also
include other species at risk
in the province.
Maintain the natural vegetation around wetlands.
Without this vegetation, your wetland will not be able to properly function as a living filter and sponge.
This will result in decreased water quality and wildlife habitat. This vegetation will also allow the wetland
to naturally expand and contract during wet and dry seasons. Having 100 m (330 feet) of natural vegetation
around the wetlands on your property is ideal, however any amount is beneficial- the more the better.
Do not infill wetlands, drain or divert their water, or drive vehicles in or near them.
These practices alter the water flow (hydrology) through the area and reduce water quality by decreasing
the wetlands natural sediment and pollution filtering capabilities. Off-highway or all-terrain vehicle use
in wetlands crushes plants and compacts the soil; this creates hard, dry tracks that increase erosion and
the chances of introducing invasive alien plant species. This makes it very difficult for native vegetation to
grow back. Call the Department of Natural Resources (1-800-565-2224) if you observe anyone driving offhighway
vehicles in wetlands or any sensitive area. Fines for driving vehicles in wetlands range from 500 to
2000 dollars. All wetland alterations require approval from Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C).
Do not build roads near or through wetlands.
Contact Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C) to determine whether any road building plans could
negatively impact a wetland or watercourse, and to see if a permit is required. Roads impact wetlands
by altering water movements, and result in road mortality when species try to reach areas cut off by
the road.
The coloured box lists suggested
actions for each habitat or activity to
beneft all wildlife, including species at
risk, and the natural environment.
Do not infill wetlands, drain or divert their water, or drive vehicles in or near them.
These practices alter the water flow (hydrology) through the area and reduce water quality by decreasing
the wetlands natural sediment and pollution filtering capabilities. Off-highway or all-terrain vehicle use
in wetlands crushes plants and compacts the soil; this creates hard, dry tracks that increase erosion and
the chances of introducing invasive alien plant species. This makes it very difficult for native vegetation to
grow back. Call the Department of Natural Resources (1-800-565-2224) if you observe anyone driving offhighway
vehicles in wetlands or any sensitive area. Fines for driving vehicles in wetlands range from 500 to
2000 dollars. All wetland alterations require approval from Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C).
Do not build roads near or through wetlands.
Contact Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C) to determine whether any road building plans could
negatively impact a wetland or watercourse, and to see if a permit is required. Roads impact wetlands
by altering water movements, and result in road mortality when species try to reach areas cut off by
the road.
Resources:
Wetkit: Tools for Working With Wetlands in Canada
www.wetkit.net
Provides information on wetlands and details on a number of
wetland projects and resources in the province.
Resources:
Wetkit: Tools for Working With Wetlands in Canada
www.wetkit.net
Provides information on wetlands and information
on a number of wetland projects and resources in
the province.
Useful resources and places to obtain additional
information are listed at the end of each section.
Thinking Ahead: Suggests ways to observe the beneficial changes on your land and describes
important features to consider before building or renovating.
COMPANION RESOURCES
Species at Risk in Nova Scotia: Identification and Information
Guide. Provides detailed information on all the species
at risk in the province. Download this guide at www.
speciesatrisk.ca or request a hard copy by calling 1-866-
727-3447.
Healthy Beaches and Dunes For Tomorrow. Provides detailed
information and stewardship tips about sandy beaches
and dunes. Contact Bird Studies Canada (902-426-4055,
nsplovers@gmail.com) to request a copy.
6

SENSITIVE HABITATS
Blanding’s Turtles, Eastern Ribbonsnakes, and Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora are found
in sensitive habitats such as lake shorelines and wetlands.
Refer to Appendix B to view a table showing where these species occur (organized
by county and name of lake and/or wetland).
Nesting Blanding’s Turtles
Looking for identifcation and range information You can refer to Appendix
A or view the Species at Risk Guide online at www.speciesatrisk.ca
• Females are recognized by their
striped upper lip. They mature at
age 20 and lay eggs every year
for the rest of their lives (80+
years!).
• It is important to protect known
nesting areas because Blanding’s
Turtle females often return to the
same place every year to nest.
J. McNeil
Type of Habitat Used by Each Species
Habitat
Pink Coreopsis
Thread-leaved Sundew
Tubercled Spike-rush
Water-pennywort
Redroot
Golden Crest
Plymouth Gentian
Sweet Pepperbush
Long’s Bulrush
New Jersey Rush
Eastern Lilaeopsis
Blanding’s Turtle
Eastern Ribbonsnake
Lake Shoreline
Bog
Fen
Swamp
Marsh
Shallow Water
Estuary
• • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • •
• • • • •
• •
• • •
• • • •
•
7

LAKE SHORELINES
Extreme High Water Level
Ordinary High Water Mark
Average Water Level
J. Sutton
Riparian Zone
Lake Shoreline
Flood Zone
Lake Shoreline: The band of exposed land below the ordinary high water mark extending to
the water’s edge.
Riparian Zone: The land next to water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
Ordinary High Water Mark: The highest point on the shoreline where water will rise under
normal weather conditions. It is usually distinguished by the presence of shrubs and other
vegetation that does not tolerate wet conditions.
The lake shoreline and riparian zone are interconnected and work together to maintain clean water
and a healthy, functioning ecosystem.
Lake waters, lake bottoms, and the land up to the ordinary high water mark is crown land and
owned by the province. Permits from Nova Scotia Environment are required to modify the shoreline
area.
WETLANDS
A wetland is an area that is waterlogged, or partially or completely covered by water for all or part
of the year. The Canadian Wetland Classification System organizes wetlands into five types:
Bog: Acidic, low nutrient, peat rich areas that
may contain trees. The only water source is from
precipitation and snowmelt. The main plants are
peat mosses and shrubs.
Fen
Bog
J. Lefevbre
M. Crowley
Fen: Peat rich areas that receive nutrients from
the water that flows through them (surface runoff,
groundwater). Typically flooded in the winter
and dominated by mosses, sedges, rushes, and
shrubs. Streams and/or pools may be present.
Swamp: Treed wetlands with stagnant or slowflowing
pools.
Marsh: Periodically or permanently flooded
wetlands with changing water levels. The main
plants are rushes, reeds, grasses, sedges and
shrubs.
Shallow Water: Transitional areas between bogs,
fens, swamps, marshes and permanent water
bodies such as lakes. Include basins, pools,
ponds, and channels.
8

BLANDING’S TURTLE HABITAT
Timeline
Activity
Habitat
June
Nesting
Shorelines/Outcrops/Gravel
July
Feeding/Basking
Wetlands
September
Hatchling Emergence
Lake Shorelines & Wetlands
December - May
Overwintering
Wetlands
J. McNeil
Female Nesting Habitat
• Gently sloping sand, cobble, gravel, or slate lake shorelines
and islands that are often south facing.
• Rock outcrops in the forest and along lake shorelines.
• Gravel pits and gravel roads.
J. McNeil
Feeding and Basking Habitat
• Slow moving dark waters of lake coves, fens with stillwater
streams, and marshes.
• Often found in shallow areas with lots of aquatic plants, places to
warm in the sun, and muddy bottoms. Associated with beavermaintained
wetlands.
• Peat moss, water lilies, and shrubs like Sweetgale, and Leatherleaf
are often present.
M. Crowley
Hatchling Habitat
• Emerge from underground nests in September and October.
• Overwinter in wetlands, temporary pools of water, or upland
forested areas.
• Spend the winter buried down in the vegetation or
underwater.
M. Crowley
Adult Overwintering Habitat
• Shallow pools and slow flowing streams in wetlands.
• Can be buried under soft mud, sitting on the bottom, or suspended
in the underwater vegetation.
Protection of this habitat is critical to Blanding’s Turtle long-term survival.
B. Caverhill
Travel Corridors
• Found in other habitats as they move to and from their feeding,
nesting, and overwintering areas.
• These habitats include forests, open water, and roads.
• Road kill can seriously affect the Blanding’s Turtle population.
Refer to page 31 for information about turtles and roads.
9

EASTERN RIBBONSNAKE HABITAT
• In the summer found along lake shorelines
and all wetland types in areas with thick
plant cover.
• In the spring or late fall observed in the outer
edges of wetlands and in forested areas near
wetlands.
Occasionally found in rocky areas with little
•
vegetation.
J. McNeil
Can be observed on roads and/or lawns near
•
wetlands.
Pregnant females may seek out warm basking
•
sites such as roads in July and August.
There are information gaps in our knowledge of this
species habitat use, range, and over-wintering sites.
Researchers are currently studying the Ribbonsnake
to further understand the needs of this species.
S. Blaney
• Little is currently known about its winter
hibernating habitat. In general, snakes tend
to hibernate within drier areas of a wetland,
forested areas, rock piles, and/or building
foundations.
Common Vegetation:
• Leatherleaf
• Sweetgale
• Grasses and sedges
• Pickerel Weed
• Water Lily
• Cow Lily
ATLANTIC COASTAL PLAIN FLORA HABITAT
What are Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora
The Atlantic coastal plain is the relatively flat land
along the Atlantic Coast from Florida to Nova Scotia.
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora are the group of plant
species that are mainly restricted to this area.
There are 90 species of Atlantic Coastal Plain
•
Flora in Nova Scotia.
Found in habitats such as bogs, fens,
•
marshes, estuaries, and lake shorelines.
• Adapted to low nutrient habitats that receive
high levels of natural disturbance like wave
action, ice scour, changing water levels, and
waterlogged conditions.
Due to these harsh conditions competition
•
from other species is low.
M. Crowley
• It is important to preserve good Atlantic
Coastal Plain Flora habitat even if no
species are currently present. These species
move around naturally over time and need
favourable areas to settle.
Nova Scotia is a Special Place!
The low nutrient, high disturbance shorelines
in this province are the most diverse Atlantic
Coastal Plain Flora habitat in Canada. These
plants represent a unique part of the biodiversity
of this province. We need to maintain and protect
this habitat to ensure that we don’t lose this
distinctive and diverse group.
10

LAKE SHORELINE HABITAT
M. Crowley
PLYMOUTH GENTIAN
and PINK COREOPSIS
Gently sloping, broad, low nutrient
shorelines that are composed of
sand, gravel, peat, or cobblestone.
Commonly found on peat shorelines
dominated by Twigrush.
Plymouth Gentian also occurs along
shorelines of slow-moving rivers in
similar habitat as above.
M. Crowley
WATER-PENNYWORT
In a narrow band above and below
the water on sand or gravel lake
shorelines.
Grows upright on the lake shoreline
and in shallow water. Floats on the
surface in deeper water.
Typically found growing by itself
or with a minimal number of other
species.
GOLDEN CREST
Gravel or cobble lake shorelines,
often where peat accumulates and
there is Twigrush.
Sometimes found on the lake
surface on floating mats of peat.
M. Crowley
REDROOT
Gently sloping cobble beaches of
peat, sand, or gravel.
Often associated with meadows of
Twigrush.
11
M. Crowley
Twigrush

TUBERCLED SPIKE-RUSH
P. Hudson
Sandy or stony lake shorelines and
gravel bars.
Peaty wetlands edges bordering
lakes.
Also found on vegetative mats that
are either floating or pushed onto
shorelines in storms or by ice.
SWEET PEPPERBUSH
M. Crowley
Open shorelines that are often
granite bouldered.
Prefers areas that are protected
from disturbances caused by wind
and ice scour.
Also found along streams and in
shaded forest habitat.
WETLAND HABITAT
THREAD-LEAVED SUNDEW
M. Crowley
Found in the peaty hollows of
raised bogs that have cone-shaped
mounds of earth interspersed with
low peaty hollows.
Raised bogs are infertile, acidic
open wetlands dominated by peat
mosses, heath shrubs, short sedges
and grasses.
LONG’S BULRUSH
M. Crowley
Stillwater meadows, inland fens,
and wetlands attached to lakes.
Located on peat substrates where
competition from shrubs is minimal
due to waterlogged conditions,
ice scour, and/or low available
nutrients.
Tend to grow in the most waterlogged
areas of these habitats.
12

NEW JERSEY RUSH
Found along the edges of small bays
or coves of bogs and fens and in
small boggy openings in coniferous
woods. Requires open conditions
and moderate disturbance.
Found in wet areas but does not
grow well in prolonged standing
water.
Sensitive to changing water levels
and negatively affected by events
such as site drainage or flooding.
R. Newell
GOLDEN CREST
In addition to lake shorelines, this
species is found in bogs and fens.
Tends to grow in waterlogged and
seasonally flooded areas.
Associated with Twigrush (pg 11).
ESTUARINE HABITAT
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
ESTUARIES
Estuaries are biologically productive regions where rivers and near-shore ocean waters
meet and create a mixing of freshwater and saltwater. They contain species that are
specially adapted to living in brackish conditions and changing water levels.
EASTERN LILAEOPSIS
The only Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora species at risk found in estuaries.
Located in the intertidal zone, mainly on gentle, muddy slopes, and occasionally on
gentle slopes of fine gravel. Associated with Saltwater Cordgrass.
May be submerged under two meters of water for part of each day.
Generally found in estuaries with a long, narrow, rectangular shape.
13
Eastern Lilaeopsis growing under Saltwater Cordgrass.
M. Crowley

Mi’kmaki: The Lands That We Share
Respect Mother Earth because she gives you life
Mi’kmaw Elders teach that we are all connected to and dependent on the healthy lands and waters
of Mi’kmaki. They teach that humans are no greater or no lesser than any other part of Creation,
from the smallest flower to the largest tree, and that l’nu (our people) are part of the natural world
around us. Plants and animals give life or spirit, by giving up their life for food and clothing. The
spirit flows and gives life. Plants and animals also protect life, through the great covenant of the
Spirit, by performing their unique roles and responsibilities in the natural world.
In receiving this life, we must be grateful and show respect. If Mother Earth is not respected, the
relationship with the land will be broken and it will no longer provide us with food or protection
and we will surely die.
The Creator has made many special places throughout Mi’kmaki. Places where old things are
renewed through the birth of new creation. Places where many rare plants and animals provide vital
medicines. Places that are beautiful and nurture the soul. Places without which we would be less
enriched. Some Mi’kmaw names for these places are: mkogwtkiktl (black spruce swamp), oseogiktl
(bog), kuskibunagekl (steep river bank), sitmog (shore), sipotjitj (brook), and gton (ocean).
If you have one of these places near your home, you are enriched. Learn about them by visiting
them and watching all that goes on. Share your knowledge and joy with others. Above all else learn
to respect these sacred places, because they give you life.
This text has been contributed by IKANAWTIKET
Illustration: “The Circle” by Arlene (Dozay) Christmas 14

HOW YOU CAN HELP ON YOUR LAND
The following pages show actions you can follow in sensitive habitats (lake
shorelines, wetlands) and activities (dock building, motorized vehicle use) that will
help maintain species at risk habitat and will benefit all wildlife and the natural
environment.
*
Top 10 Ways You Can Help
Maintain the natural vegetation around the
lake shorelines and wetlands on your land
Do not drive off-highway or all-terrain
vehicles in sensitive habitats
Plant native species only, and
reduce or eliminate your lawn
Learn to recognize species at risk and
the habitats they depend on
Watch for wildlife when boating and driving
Report species at risk sightings:
sightings@speciesatrisk.ca, 1-866-727-3447
Tell friends, family, and neighbours what
you are doing and how they can help
Build docks that minimize impacts to the
lake shoreline and water quality
Keep your sewage system well maintained
Eliminate pesticides, herbicides, and
chemical fertilizer use
Plymouth Gentian
• The flowers of Plymouth
Gentian are typically
pink but sometimes
rare white flowers are
produced - look for them
along your shoreline!
• Plymouth Gentian can
be recognized by its
basal rosette when it is
not in flower.
Basal Rosette
White Plymouth Gentian flower
M. Crowley
15

LAKE SHORELINES
Lake shorelines and riparian zones are important habitat for many species. Atlantic Coastal
Plain Flora grow in these areas, Eastern Ribbonsnakes feed and bask there, and Blanding’s
Turtles nest on their gravel slopes. People also love lake shorelines for activities such as
swimming and fishing. Together, there are many ways that people and species at risk can
share this habitat.
Sweet Pepperbush
Blanding’s Turtle
Mainland Moose
Pink Coreopsis
Preserve the natural vegetation along your lake shoreline.
The best and easiest thing you can do is let your lake shoreline be. The tidier your lake front area is,
the dirtier your lake will be. This is because the riparian and shoreline vegetation acts as a natural filter
and helps maintain high water quality by filtering out eroded soil, pollutants, and nutrients before they
enter the water. This vegetation also slows runoff, which helps to prevent erosion, flooding, and sediment
build-up. Modifying this area to suit your needs (for example, creating a small natural path) is well within
reason but it would be best to try and keep this area as natural as possible. At least 30 m (100 feet) of
natural vegetation from the lake shoreline is ideal (the more the better), but any amount is beneficial.
Allow your lake shoreline and riparian zone to grow back naturally and/or plant native
vegetation if your shoreline has already been cleared.
To encourage the reappearance of native plants spread a layer of leaves over your lawn or cleared area to
discourage grass growth and slowly observe the reappearance of other plants. To speed up the process
you can plant native plant species that would be found in your riparian zone (ask your local garden
center to supply native plant species). Areas with curvy instead of straight edges are more welcoming to
wildlife.
Use public access boat launches instead of creating a boat launch on your property.
Boat launches require extensive shoreline modification and a road down to the lake. Public access boat
launches are an easy way to get your boat in the water without impacting your shoreline. To increase the
length of the natural lake shoreline try to group shoreline, developments in one small region instead of
having them spread out.
16

Do not infill, rake, or mow your lake shoreline, or install concrete/rock walls.
The most effective and easy way to prevent lake shoreline erosion is to maintain the natural vegetation.
Complicated measures such as retaining walls or rock walls are expensive and actually increase erosion
over time. They not only reduce water quality by preventing water filtration and purification, but also
impact water currents, and destroy fish and shoreline habitat. Raking or mowing the shoreline can disturb
and destroy Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora species and wildlife habitat. All lake shoreline modifications below
the ordinary high water mark require approval from Nova Scotia Environment and in some cases the
Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
Artificial beaches are bad news for wildlife.
Any shoreline alteration requires approval from Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C). Replacing natural
lake shorelines with an artificial beach directly modifies the habitat required by wildlife. It is also costly
and temporary because the sand often washes away. The displaced sand is destructive when it settles
elsewhere; it can smother fish spawning areas, insect and amphibian habitat, and aquatic vegetation that
would otherwise provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife. Property owners with existing artificial
beaches can stop adding sand and let the area to return to its natural state.
Pruning some of your trees instead of cutting them down is a great way to obtain a
view of the lake while keeping the trees on your property.
Trees reduce runoff, stabilize the soil, provide habitat for wildlife, and keep the ground cooler and more
drought resistant during the hot summer months. Trees near your house can help regulate the temperature
and reduce heating and cooling costs by over 20%. Dead trees (standing or fallen) provide habitat and
shelter for a variety of wildlife species. Trees can be unintentionally weakened by certain pruning
techniques - see the next page for tips on how to avoid this.
Lake shorelines are no place for vehicles - drive on roads designed for vehicle traffic.
The Off-highway Vehicle Act does not permit off-highway or all-terrain vehicle use in sensitive habitats such
as wetlands, rivers, lake shorelines, sand dunes, beaches, and barrens. Fines for driving in these habitats
range from 500 to 2000 dollars. Driving along the shoreline directly damages plant species and compacts
the soil, making it hard for plants to grow back. Compacted soil can destroy up to 90% of the underground
seed bank and water quality is reduced with soil bank erosion. Call the Department of Natural Resources
(1-800-565-2224) if you observe anyone driving vehicles in sensitive areas.
Reduce the number and width of access paths to the lake.
This will reduce soil compaction, erosion, and the chances of introducing invasive alien plant species.
Paths made of porous materials like gravel and wood chips that wind and curve down to the lake (instead
of heading straight towards the water) will reduce runoff into the lake.
Create wildlife corridors to allow access to the lake.
Many wildlife species require access to fresh water and will not move across open areas to get to the
water’s edge. Areas with thicker vegetation such as shrubs down to the lake shoreline will encourage
wildlife movement and allow for great wildlife viewing. Have a family day where you plant native trees
and shrubs and have fun!
Resources:
The Shore Primer: A Cottager’s Guide to a Healthy Waterfront
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/regions/central/pub/index_e.htm
Produced by Cottage Life and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Provides great
information about how to preserve your lake shoreline and ways to restore
altered shorelines. Download this guide online or call 1-866-333-6676 for a free
copy.
17
The Living By Water Project
www.livingbywater.ca
This website provides information, tips, and resources on how to work towards
healthy freshwater and marine shoreline habitats across Canada. The publication
“On the Living Edge: Your Handbook for Waterfront Living” is available to order
for $15 in the online resources section.

PRUNING TECHNIQUES
To avoid weakening the tree, prune early in the spring or late in the fall, do not prune more than
20% of the tree, and try using the techniques recommended below by the Living by Water project.
CONIFERS can be pruned in a few ways:
INTERLIMB SKIRT UP CREATE A WINDOW
DECIDUOUS trees can be pruned to reduce the entire crown, instead of creating gaps:
BEFORE AFTER AVOID THIS
Food for Thought
Natural lake shorelines, riparian
areas, and wetlands are hot spots
for perennial fruits that require no
maintenance or tending! Look for
delicious blueberries, raspberries,
strawberries, cranberries, blackberries,
and huckleberries, and enjoy the
fresh, delicious harvest.
Blueberries
Raspberries
Cranberries
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
A steward stops to smell the Sweet Pepperbush!
The Red Wolf Singers on Turtle Day
18

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: The Turners
Snapshots
J. Turner
L. Arsenault
P. Hope
Checking for (and fnding!)
Blanding’s Turtle hatchlings
The Turners’
grandchild Max...
...and Max the
Blanding’s Turtle!
Arlyn and Jeanette Turner live in Pleasant River
and own a Christmas tree farm. About six years
ago, they discovered that Blanding’s Turtles were
nesting near their house and on
the road of their Christmas tree
lot. They became dedicated
stewards and watch over the
nesting turtles in June,
and hatchlings in the
fall. They fondly say
that the hatchling
turtles are like their
grandchildren and
that they enjoy every
minute they spend with this fascinating species.
As a result of their committed work, they were
asked to name one of the 50 headstart Blanding’s
Turtles that were released back into the
wild in the summer of 2008. The
name they chose was Max, after
their first grandson. At nearly the
same age, Max the turtle and
Max the human will grow
and mature over the same
time period. Turtles are
considered juveniles until
they reach the age of 20
and can live 80+ years!
19

WETLANDS
Wetlands act as living filters and sponges. They maintain high water quality by filtering
out sediments and chemicals and supply clean water to important underground sources.
They soak up water during periods of high precipitation, reduce the chances of flooding,
and release water during times of drought. Wetlands are areas of high biodiversity and are
home to a diverse number of species that require this habitat to live and survive.
Thread-leaved Sundew
Eastern Ribbonsnake
Long’s Bulrush
Golden Crest
Blanding’s Turtle
Maintain the natural vegetation around wetlands.
Without this vegetation, your wetland will not be able to properly function as a living filter and sponge.
This will result in decreased water quality and wildlife habitat. This vegetation will also allow the wetland
to naturally expand and contract during wet and dry seasons. Having 100 m (330 feet) of natural vegetation
around the wetlands on your property is ideal, however any amount is beneficial- the more the better.
Do not infill wetlands, drain or divert their water, or drive vehicles in or near them.
These practices alter the water flow (hydrology) through the area and reduce water quality by decreasing
the wetlands natural sediment and pollution filtering capabilities. Off-highway or all-terrain vehicle use
in wetlands crushes plants and compacts the soil; this creates hard, dry tracks that increase erosion and
the chances of introducing invasive alien plant species. This makes it very difficult for native vegetation to
grow back. Call the Department of Natural Resources (1-800-565-2224) if you observe anyone driving offhighway
vehicles in wetlands or any sensitive area. Fines for driving vehicles in wetlands range from 500
to 2000 dollars. All wetland alterations require approval from Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C).
Do not build roads near or through wetlands.
Contact Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C) to determine whether any road building plans could
negatively impact a wetland or watercourse, and to see if a permit is required. Roads impact wetlands
by altering water movements, and result in road mortality when species try to reach areas cut off by the
road.
Resources:
Wetkit: Tools for Working With Wetlands in Canada
www.wetkit.net
Provides information on wetlands and details on a number of
wetland projects and resources in the province.
20

ESTUARIES
Estuaries are coastal locations where fresh and salt water mix at the mouths of rivers
entering into the ocean. Estuaries are regions of high biological diversity and contain
unique species specially adapted to living in this environment. Eastern Lilaeopsis is an
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora species at risk that is found in estuaries.
Any type of shoreline alteration requires a permit.
Contact the Department of Natural Resources before you modify
the shoreline area below the ordinary high water mark. Keep in
mind that habitat around estuaries generally includes wetlands
such as salt marshes and that any type of wetland alteration
requires approval from Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C).
Eastern Lilaeopsis
If you live or work near Eastern Lilaeopsis habitat take special precautions not to
disturb or impact this species in estuaries at the mouth of the Phillip, LaHave, Medway,
Annis, Roseway, and Tusket Rivers.
Follow the lake shoreline practices outlined in this guide.
These practices are applicable to any shoreline area including rivers and estuaries.
Red Knot
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
Eastern Lilaeopsis in July
Under Saltwater Cordgrass
Start of flower formation
Estuary habitat
21
Resources:
The Living By Water Project
www.livingbywater.ca
This website provides information, tips, and resources on how to work towards healthy freshwater
and marine shoreline habitats across Canada. The publication “On the Living Edge: Your Handbook for
Waterfront Living” is available to order for $15 in the online resources section (the BC version provides
tips for both fresh and saltwater habitats).

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: L’sitkuk
Environmental
Youth Group
Snapshots
M. Longmire
Group shot at the eel weir
T. Imlay
Destiny and Jesse searching
for Ribbonsnakes
M. Longmire
Kyle and Megan giving a school
presentation on species at risk
The Bear River L’sitkuk Environmental Youth
Group was formed to involve and engage youth
in environmental and cultural issues. Since its
formation, the group has been
involved in a number of species
at risk projects. The youth
group has been involved
in Blanding’s Turtle
tracking and hatchling
emergence and Eastern
Ribbonsnake surveys, at
Kejimkujik and McGowan
Lake. They interviewed
Elders about the American
Eel, a traditionally important
species at risk, to determine
where the eel historically and presently occurs.
Using this information, they built two eel weirs
to catch and release eel during the fall migration.
These weirs allow the eel population
to be monitored every year to
observe population changes and
trends. A couple of the youth
group members have given
presentations to schools
in southwest Nova Scotia
on the Mi’kmaw philosophy
towards the earth and
species at risk. Their passion
and dedication is inspiring to
everyone that they meet and
work with.
22

LAWN and GARDEN
Sometimes what we consider to be weeds and pests are what many wildlife species
consider to be food and shelter. The substances used to remove pests and weeds can
pollute the water sources we depend on and the habitats many wildlife species call home.
There are ways to care for your lawn and garden that minimize impacts to the wildlife
around us.
Monarch Butterfly
Plant native species and use local soils and fills.
Native vegetation is naturally adapted, does not require fertilizers
or pesticides, and is drought resistant. Planting native species
around your property helps to maintain the natural biodiversity
of the area, provides wildlife with food and shelter, and reduces
the chances of introducing invasive alien species. Native flowers attract local butterfly and bird species in
the summer and provide seeds and berries throughout the fall and winter. Ask for native plants at garden
centers and confirm that they are genetically native to your area.
Blanding’s Turtle Nest Cage
Reduce or eliminate your lawn. Keep it well away from lakes and wetlands.
Lake shoreline properties without lawns are your best bet. If you feel a lawn is necessary try to keep
it on the side of the house away from the lake. If your lawn currently ends at the lake shoreline, try to
encourage the growth of natural vegetation by leaving the grass uncut and allowing native vegetation to
return. This will save time and money. If this sounds like a big task, start slowly and leave a couple meters
each year to revert back to natural vegetation.
Practice lawn care techniques that reduce water use and discourage weed growth.
Grass that is cut to a height of 7-8 cm (3 inches) is less prone to pests, disease, and drought. Watering less
often allows the top of the soil to dry out and will help prevent the growth of “weedy” plants.
Limit or eliminate chemical fertilizer use.
Instead, try using compost made from your kitchen scraps (in an animal proof compost bin). Atlantic
Coastal Plain Flora species are found in low nutrient, high disturbance areas where other plant species
cannot grow. The addition of nutrients shifts this balance and encourages the growth of plants that push
out these species. Fertilizers increase the level of nitrogen and phosphorus in the environment and can
create large, smelly algal blooms. This reduces the amount of light and available oxygen in the water and
can choke out other aquatic plants and animals. It also makes activities such as swimming and boating
unpleasant due to water discolouration and clogged boat motors - things we all want to avoid!
23

Eliminate pesticide and herbicide use and keep your family and environment healthy.
Chemical free gardens contain a diversity of natural predators that will keep down most insect outbreaks.
Pesticides have many unforeseen impacts and can kill beneficial insects, amphibians, and other wildlife.
Pesticides and fertilizer runoff from lawns and gardens expose our family, pets, and wildlife to chemicals,
and can end up in the water we rely on to drink. Eliminate the need for these products by practicing
natural pest management techniques (see resources).
What’s So Bad About a Lawn
Lawns are not ideal around the lake shoreline. When natural vegetation surrounds a lake only 10%
of the rainwater flows into the water body. Lawns retain much less water and allow up to 55% of
rainwater to directly enter the lake and with it fertilizers, nutrients, and chemicals.
Lawns need to be weeded, mowed, and watered - the less lawn you have, the more time you have
to relax. It may appear that your lawn is not having much of an impact but many lawns around a
lake may result in decreased water quality and loss of wildlife habitat. So relax, get rid of your lawn
and let nature do the work for you!
Invasive Alien Species
• Are animals and plants that have become
established in areas outside their natural
range and have the potential to harm the
environment, economy and/or society.
• Threaten our natural biodiversity by displacing
native species and disrupting food chains.
• Once established it is often difficult or
impossible to eliminate them - that is why it
is so important to prevent their spread!
• Some non-native aquatic plants can rapidly
take over natural environments. If you have a
garden pond build it well away from natural
water sources and plant native species only.
• Knowing what you are planting, eliminating
your lawn, and having a natural shoreline are
great ways to prevent invasive plant spread.
D. Ure
Dame’s Rocket
Volunteers removing Glossy Buckthorn
Japanese Knotweed
Scotch Broom
Photos: NS Museum
To learn more please visit:
Hinterland’s Who’s Who: www.hww.ca
Plant Patrol NS: www.plantpatrolns.ca
NS Invasive Species Working Group:
www.invasivespeciesns.ca
Do not dispose of invasive plants by placing them
in your backyard compost. Disposal options vary
between species. To determine the best disposal
option for your invasive plant material, contact
the working group: www.invasivespeciesns.ca.
Some Invasive Plants to Beware of:
Norway Maple Yellow Floating-Heart
Bishops Goutweed Dame’s Rocket
Oriental Bittersweet Large-leaved Lupine
Scotch Broom Japanese Knotweed
Common Buckthorn Rugosa Rose
Glossy Buckthorn European Mountain-Ash
Scotch Pine
Honeysuckle species
Black Locust Yellow Iris
English Oak
Flowering Rush
Multiflora Rose Creeping Jennie
Resources:
Pesticide Free….A Guide to Natural Lawn and Garden Care
www.toronto.ca/health/pesticides/natural_lawn_guide.htm
Online resource providing tips on lawn and garden care and natural pest management techniques.
24

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: Carter Feltham
Snapshots
B. Caverhill
Helping to check
live turtle traps
M. Crowley
Monitoring
Thread-leaved Sundew
B. Caverhill
Ela the Blanding’s Turtle
M. Crowley
Receiving the Volunteer Walk
of Honour award
Carter Feltham is 13 years old, lives in
Pleasant River, and attends North
Queens High School. When
Carter was seven years old she
learned that Ela, a Blanding’s
Turtle, was laying eggs on her
grandfather’s property. For
the past six years Carter has
ventured out on June evenings to
find Ela’s nest and protect the eggs;
she returns in the fall to monitor
Ela’s young as they emerge from
the ground. But Carter doesn’t stop there - she
is also actively involved in turtle trapping and
tracking and other species at risk programs
such as Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora monitoring.
She is the youngest inductee into the
Volunteer Walk of Honour, with over 350
hours contributed so far. Her favorite part
of volunteering is “watching a turtle lay her
eggs under the stars”. To help species
at risk she knows she has to be
committed, which is why she
comes back year after year.
25

DOCK BUILDING
All docks have some environmental impact. Alternative options including installing a
mooring buoy or offshore swimming raft, building a shared dock with neighbours or using
public access locations. If you choose to build a dock the information below will help
minimize impacts to the shoreline and water quality.
American Eel
Blanding’s Turtle
Redroot
Eastern Ribbonsnake
Contact Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C) to see if you need to obtain approval
before building your dock.
Carefully consider where to place your dock.
Avoid Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora habitat (page 10) and fish spawning areas when choosing a dock location.
The federal Fisheries Act prohibits any work that results in the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction
of fish habitat. Shoreline and lake bottom habitats are also important for animals (such as turtles and
snakes) that rely on fish and aquatic insects for food. When many docks are along a shoreline it can be
difficult for Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora plants and seeds to disperse to new locations.
Build with materials that do not leach toxic substances into the water.
The choices we make with our building materials can help ensure that our waters are healthy and pollution
free for generations to come. Try to build your dock with untreated wood such as cedar, larch, or hemlock.
Pressure treated wood, rubber tires, recycled plastic barrels (formerly containing chemicals), and old
railway ties leach toxic substances into the lake. Painted steel can flake off and is toxic to aquatic
organisms. Floating materials like closed-cell extruded polystyrene billets are resistant to breakdown
unlike expanded polystyrene.
Chose a dock type with minimal impacts to the shoreline and lake bottom.
Floating and pipe docks have less impact on the shoreline, water currents and lake bottom. Cantilever
and suspension docks are also good options. Crib docks and concrete piers are not permitted along inland
lake shorelines because they cover lake bottom habitat, impact water currents, and encourage shoreline
erosion.
26

Stay well away from the water when painting, staining, cutting, or sawing.
Even better, choose untreated products over ones that require paint or stain.
During dock construction and/or old dock removal, minimize disturbance to the lake
bottom and avoid shifting or removing structures such as rocks or logs.
Pipe Dock
Floating Dock
A. Lavers
WHat dock type is right for you
The right type of dock for your property will depend on a number
of factors such as water depth and exposure to the elements
and will require some thought and research. Keep in mind that
floating docks move up and down with water levels, can be built
in deep water, and are less impacted by ice scour. Pipe docks
can be built in shallow water and allow sunlight to reach the lake
bottom. Depending on the conditions, your dock may need to be
removed from the water during the winter.
Coastal Wharves
The document Before you Build a Wharf or Do Other
Work on the Shore of your Coastal Waterfront
Property contains permit information and
parameters on how to construct and repair wharves,
boat ramps and moorings. These structures must
be constructed of materials that do not leach toxins
and are free of oil, grease, and other contaminants.
You are required to obtain a permit from the
Department of Natural Resources before building
any structure below the ordinary high water mark.
To view this information please visit: www.gov.
ns.ca/natr/land/policybeforeyoubuild.htm or call
902-424-3160 to request a free hard copy.
J. McKinnon
27
Resources:
The Dock Primer: A Cottager’s Guide to Waterfront Friendly Docks
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/regions/central/pub/index_e.htm
Produced by Cottage Life and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Provides detailed information on dock
shapes, types, and building materials. You can download this guide online or call 1-866-333-6676
to request a free copy.

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: Caroline Power and
Phyllis Westbury
Snapshots
P. Westbury
Caroline doing a
rare plant survey
Watercolour of Grass Pink by C. Power
Lake shoreline view
from the water
M. Crowley
Caroline Power and Phyllis Westbury spend
the summer at their cottage on Ponhook
Lake. They volunteer for the Nova Scotia
Nature Trust as rare plant monitors
and record the distribution and
abundance of rare Atlantic Coastal
Plain Flora species in their area.
Caroline is a talented artist and
paints Atlantic Coastal Plain
Flora watercolours. They both
appreciate the diversity of
wildlife around them and
share their lake shoreline with Eastern
Ribbonsnakes, Redroot, and Golden
Crest. A number of additional Atlantic
Coastal Plain Flora can be found along
their shoreline including Golden-pert,
Virginia Meadow Beauty, Grass Pink, and
Spatulate-leaved Sundew. To minimize
impacts to these species and to the rest
of the native vegetation, they have
left their shoreline and riparian
area in its natural state and have
built a floating dock.
28

Avoid This
Try This
ON-SITE SEWAGE SYSTEMS
It is more cost effective, time saving, and environmentally friendly to properly install and
maintain your sewage system than to try and repair a failing system. Poorly maintained
sewage systems increase the chance of contracting diseases, degrade terrestrial and
aquatic wildlife habitat, and can contaminate the surface and ground water we rely on for
drinking.
Plymouth Gentian
Eastern White Cedar
Purchase a CSA approved tank made of reinforced
concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene.
If you have a steel tank replace it with a tank made of one of
the materials above before it starts to corrode and leak. Under
the provincial Environment Act and the On-site Sewage Disposal
Regulations, you must obtain approval from Nova Scotia Environment before putting in a sewage system
and hire a qualified professional to do the installation.
Cover the area over your septic tank and disposal field with plants such as native
wildflowers to allow easy access for maintenance and cleaning.
Plants with deep roots (trees, shrubs, bushes) are not well suited as they can damage the system.
Have your tank pumped and inspected every 2-3 years by a registered septic tank
cleaner.
Record the date of your tank inspection so you know when to book the next visit. Poorly maintained
sewage systems are likely to become blocked and leak into the environment, which can decrease the value
of your property and cause odour problems and costly repairs. More seriously, leakages can cause health
problems, contaminate drinking water, and degrade wildlife habitat. CAUTION: Do not enter on-site septic
systems by yourself because dangerous gas may be present.
Spread water use over the week and practice water conservation techniques.
Sewage systems can only handle a certain amount of water. The most common reason for septic malfunction
and failure is water overuse.
Do not flush materials down the drain that can clog and back-up the system.
On-site sewage systems are designed to break down solid waste through bacterial processes and water
flow into the disposal field. If it can’t be broken down, don’t flush it down.
29

Use phosphate free soaps, laundry detergents, and environmentally friendly cleaning
products.
Cleaning products often contain chemicals that are toxic to humans, pets, and wildlife. These products
can also kill the good bacteria in the septic tank. Phosphates from soaps and detergents release nutrients
into the water that encourage the growth of algal blooms, and decrease the amount of oxygen available
to aquatic species. A number of good natural cleaning products can be purchased at the supermarket or
health food store.
You can make your own effective cleaning products.
For some ideas refer to Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation’s “Watershed Wisdom” guide for simple yet
effective general, kitchen, bathroom, laundry, floor and furniture cleaners (see resources below).
On-site sewage systems (including outhouses) must be constructed at least 30 m (100
feet) from lakes, rivers, wetlands, and water sources such as wells.
This distance is regulated in the On-site Sewage Disposal Regulations of the Nova Scotia Environment Act.
If you have an outhouse, do not pour household cleaners or bleach into the pit.
Signs of a Failing System
• Wet, spongy areas and/or lush green
vegetation near the septic tank or waste
disposal field.
Foul odours present, especially after it rains
•
or when water use is high.
• Slow running drains and toilets.
In among the Sweet Pepperbush
J. McKinnon
M. McKinnon
Why nest protection is important: A predated turtle nest
beside one protected by a cover
M. Crowley
Resources:
Nova Scotia Environment’s Wastewater Website
www.gov.ns.ca/nse/water/wastewater.asp
A resource site with information about permits, forms, contacts for qualified inspectors and installers, and
helpful documents to download such as “Before You Construct an On-site Sewage System: Facts a Homeowner
Should Know” (hard copies free) and “Technical Guidelines” (hard copies $30). To order hard copies of these
documents please call 902-424-7773.
Environmental Home Assessment Program
This program provides free on-site assessments to homes served by water wells and on-site septic systems.
Grants may be available to repair failing septic systems.
* Homeowners who participate will receive a water and wastewater assessment, water saving
devices, $50 rebate on septic tank pumping, environmentally friendly cleaner samples, water
quality sampling kit, and a home oil tank system checklist.
Kings, Annapolis, Digby and Yarmouth Counties: Clean Annapolis River Project 1-888-547-4344
Shelburne, Queens and Lunenburg Counties: Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation 1-866-551-5586
Watershed Wisdom Guide
www.coastalaction.org
Written by Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation. Download this guide online or call 902-624-9888
to request a free hard copy.
30

MOTORIZED VEHICLES
Motorized vehicles allow us to visit remote natural areas in Nova Scotia. They can take us
to places that would otherwise be difficult to easily access. Unfortunately, if we are not
careful they can also harm wildlife, the environment, and ourselves. There are ways that
we can responsibly use motorized vehicles that reduce these negative impacts.
Report oil spills of any size immediately
to the Coast Guard.
Call 1-800-565-1633; note the source, estimated
quantity of the spill, and if it is on land or
water.
Canada Warbler
Eastern Ribbonsnake
Snapping Turtle
AUTOMOBILES:
Keep an eye out on highways, roads, and trails for wildlife.
Road mortality affects creatures large and small (insects, amphibians, birds, mammals) and snakes and
turtles are among the unfortunate victims of road mortality. Turtles can cross the road at any time;
however, you are more likely to encounter adults on the road in June and July and hatchlings from
September to November.
Drive with caution and look out for Blanding’s Turtles when you see these signs.
Large blue signs mark the edges of the known Blanding’s Turtle range, while smaller white signs are
placed where turtles have been observed. The white signs will be displayed in the early summer and fall
when turtles are more likely to cross the road and it is important to keep an eye out for them. Blanding’s
Turtles do not mature until they are 20-25 years old and the loss of one adult turtle can have a big impact
on the population. Hatchling turtles are small and difficult to spot and are run over every year.
31
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
N. Green

H. Reed
P. Hope
M. Crowley
FROM TOP LEFT: Blanding’s Turtle laying her eggs on the edge of a road; a nest cover protecting Blanding’s Turtle
eggs from predators on Keji lake; adult Blanding’s Turtle in the middle of the road.
If you see a Blanding’s Turtle nest cover, do not disturb or remove.
You may see these nest covers (photo above) near roads, trails, or along the lake shoreline. Researchers
cover Blanding’s Turtle nests in June to protect the eggs from predators. These covers are removed in the
fall when the hatchlings emerge. It is important not to disturb the covers or the eggs that lay below. If
you would like to learn more or get involved with this project please contact the Mersey Tobeatic Research
Institute (902-682-2371).
OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLES:
Limit use to designated trails. Never ride off-highway vehicles along lake shorelines,
rivers, or in wetlands.
The Off-highway Vehicle Act does not permit off-highway or all-terrain vehicle use in sensitive habitats such
as wetlands, rivers, lake shorelines, sand dunes, beaches, and barrens. Fines for driving in these habitats
range from 500 to 2000 dollars. Call the Department of Natural Resources (1-800-565-2224) if you observe
anyone driving off-highway vehicles in sensitive areas. Visit the lake shoreline and wetland sections for
more information on the effects of vehicle use on wildlife habitat.
Off-highway or all-terrain vehicle use is generally prohibited in protected areas such as
nature reserves, parks, and wilderness areas.
The Off-highway Vehicle Act does not permit off-highway or all-terrain vehicle use in protected areas such
as wilderness areas, nature reserves, provincial parks, or in endangered species core habitat. To view a
map of the protected areas in Nova Scotia, visit: www.gov.ns.ca/nse/protectedareas/map.asp
Respect all signs regarding speed limits and seasonal closures.
Choose vehicles with four-stroke engines and low impact tires.
32

MOTORIZED WATER VEHICLES:
Drive at speeds that do not produce a wake within 30 m (100 feet) of the shoreline.
Under Transport Canada’s Vessel Operation Regulations all power-driven vessels are required to move at
speeds less than 10 km/h within 30 m (100 feet) of all river and lake shorelines in Nova Scotia. Wakes from
vehicles like motorboats and personal watercraft can disturb wildlife species and erode shorelines, while
motorboat propellers can tear up vegetation, hit wildlife, and increase sedimentation.
Use public access boat launches instead of creating a boat launch on your property.
Boat launches require extensive shoreline modification and a road to the lake. Public access boat launches
are an easy alternative to avoid impacting the lake shoreline and water quality.
Do not drive motorized vehicles in shallow vegetated water.
Avoid areas where your boat can stir up lake bottom sediment, disturb wildlife, and tear up vegetation.
Refuel all detachable fuel tanks well away from the water.
Minimize fuel spills by using devices like funnels or fuel pumps and place fuel absorbent pads underneath
the tank when refueling. Do not top-up or overfill your tank because fuel expands when it warms and
could leak if your tank is overfilled. Prevent fuel leakage by keeping your engine well maintained.
Purchase an electric or four-stroke engine when replacing your motor.
Every year recreational boating is responsible for the release of millions of litres of fuel and oil directly into
freshwater lakes. Two-stroke engines are inefficient and release 25-40% of their fuel directly into the water
as unburned exhaust. Environment Canada found that driving 8,000 km in a car produced fewer emissions
than running a 70 hp two-stroke motor for two hours! Four-stroke engines emit 80% less pollutants, are
quieter, and require 40-80% less fuel – a good way to save money and help the environment.
NS Public Lands Coalition
NS Public Lands Coalition
J. McNeil
FROM TOP LEFT: Aerial view of the damage from vehicle use to a bog; Off-highway vehicle tracks through sensitive bog habitat; Eastern
Ribbonsnake crossing the road.
Resources:
Tread Lightly!
www.treadlightly.org
A non-profit organization dedicated to spreading the word about how to be a
responsible outdoor enthusiast. Click on “education” and then “recreation tips” to
learn ways to decrease your environmental impact while riding off-highway vehicles,
hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and many more.
33
Travel responsibly
Respect the rights of others
Educate yourself
Avoid sensitive areas
Do your part

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: The MacInnises
Snapshots
B. MacInnis
Amita looking for Eastern
Ribbonsnakes
M. Crowley
Their cozy family cottage
nestled among the trees
Bruce searches the
shoreline for Redroot
M. Crowley
Bruce and Amita MacInnis live in Dartmouth
and have a cottage on Molega Lake with a
shoreline wetland. This wetland
vegetation provides habitat for
a diversity of species and
the view of the lake from the
cottage is spectacular! This
wetland is teeming with
fish fry, snakes, painted
turtles, muskrats, and
dragonflies that chase
the deer flies away.
With huckleberries,
cranberries, and
royal fern along
the shore, they also discovered some
treasures such as round-leaved sundew and
narrow-leaf violets. From their place, they can
see the shoreline across the lake where the
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora species Redroot
occurs. They love and appreciate the
species that live with them and report
Eastern Ribbonsnake sightings to
researchers. Bruce and Amita
keep their shoreline natural to
maintain the wetland, encourage
the presence of wildlife, and to
preserve the lake
w a t e r
quality.
34

WILDLIFE and PETS
We appreciate our pets and the presence of wildlife on our property, but need to be careful
to ensure we are not negatively impacting the environment around us. Wildlife is just that
– wild. By being aware of how our actions affect the plants and animals around us, we can
make sure that the natural environment maintains its healthy form and function.
Maintain natural levels of wild animals by reducing
and eliminating attractants on your property.
• Place all garbage in good storage containers that cannot be
accessed by animals.
• Do not feed wildlife.
• Keep your compost far away from water in a sealed, animal-proof container. Turn regularly to reduce
odours.
• Keep all pet food inside.
Water-Pennywort
Common Nighthawk
Populations of wild animals such as squirrels and raccoons generally increase in developed areas. These
animals can impact turtle populations by preying on hatchlings and digging up turtle nests to eat the eggs.
It is important to remember that predators are not “bad” species and that predation is a part of a natural
ecosystem. However, by keeping our land free of attractants, we can avoid artificially raising predator
populations to levels that would not occur naturally.
35
You are responsible for your pet and its actions. Keep your cat and dog on a leash or
in an enclosed area when outdoors.
Cats and dogs can disturb and kill wildlife. Under the Nova Scotia Wildlife Act it is against the law to allow
a dog to run “at large” or unaccompanied by its owner. Free-roaming cats are estimated to kill hundreds
of millions of birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals every year. One cat can have a huge impact on
wildlife (even if it has a bell or is de-clawed), and can kill many animals per week. Most wildlife kills go
unnoticed and it is difficult for a pet owner to realize the full impact of their pet.
Prevent the spread of invasive species when fishing and boating.
• Do not move fish from one lake or stream into another.
• Do not release live bait (see page 37 for a list of prohibited bait species).
• Drain live wells and bilge water from your boat before leaving a water body. Remove all plants, mussels,
and other visible organisms from your boat.
• Wash or dry all your fishing gear (trailer, boots, tackle, etc) away from water bodies to kill the aquatic
species on them, which can live for two weeks out of the water.

• Before entering a water body, spray your boat with hot water or dry it in the sun for five days.
Invasive species like smallmouth bass and chain pickerel compete with native species (including fish,
turtles, and snakes) for prey such as small fish and amphibians. Invasive species can alter entire food webs,
and eliminate native fish populations (including important traditional angling species like brook trout).
Chain pickerel have also been observed to wipe out entire amphibian populations and eat snakes.
Report invasive alien species sightings.
Call 1-800-563-7711 to report your observations to the Invading Species Hotline (www.invadingspecies.
com). If you catch or observe smallmouth bass or chain pickerel you can report this information to the
Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute by calling 1-866-727-3447.
Beaver dam removal requires a permit and should be avoided whenever possible.
Contact the Department of Natural Resources for information regarding nuisance beavers (Appendix C). Ask
about alternative approaches to manage conflict situations, which may include beaver leveler devices to
help keep water at acceptable levels. Provincial regulations prohibit unauthorized persons from disturbing
or removing a beaver dam or lodge at any time. In most situations removal of the animals and/or their
dams is not necessary or even the most effective approach.
Do not release pet species into the wild or keep wild animals as pets.
Releasing species like goldfish and red-eared sliders into the wild can disrupt and harm the ecosystem
and can spread exotic parasites and diseases to native species with no resistance. Wild animals are not
meant to be kept as pets and suffer when they are removed from their natural habitat.
Beaver Maintained Wetlands
Blanding’s Turtle habitat is strongly associated
with the presence of beavers and the wetland
habitat they create and maintain. Beaver dams
play an important role in maintaining constant
water levels (which is particularly important
during times of drought) and sustaining
nutrient levels. Blanding’s Turtles often spend
both the summer and winter in habitat created
by beavers. Eastern Ribbonsnakes are often
found in beaver maintained wetlands and have
been observed on both dams and lodges.
M. Crowley
Resources:
Department of Natural Resources When Beavers Become A Nuisance brochure
www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/nuisance/beavers.htm
Provides information about living with beavers. Call 902-679-6091 to request a hard copy or view online.
36

INVASIVE FISH and PROHIBITED BAIT SPECIES
A. Lavers
J. McKinnon
Invasive Fish Project
In 2006, the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute (MTRI) and Clean Annapolis River Project (CARP)
hired local youth to travel around southwest Nova Scotia with an aquarium. They showed people
what healthy trout look like and talked about the negative impacts invasive species like smallmouth
bass and chain pickerel have on the ecosystem. Twenty-four waterside educational signs were
installed in the Mersey and Annapolis watersheds at places where people launch fishing boats.
These signs show where invasive species have been introduced and encourage keeping waterways
free of invasive fish for better trout fishing. MTRI and CARP also developed a network of volunteer
anglers who report locations of invasive fish so they can be tracked in a database. Contact MTRI by
phone (1-866-727-3447) or email (info@merseytobeatic.ca) to become part of this effort.
Prohibited Bait Species
Bait species prohibited in Nova Scotia include the species
below and any fish not taken from provincial waters:
Chain Pickerel Smallmouth Bass Yellow Perch
White Perch Bullhead (catfsh) Goldfsh
Illustrations: NS Fisheries and Aquaculture Goldfish: J. LeBlanc
Fish with non-lead sinkers and jigs to prevent
wildlife deaths caused by lead poisoning
J. McKinnon
J. McKinnon
37
For More Information on Fishing and Invasive Species Please Visit:
Project UFO: www.projectufo.ca
Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture: www.gov.ns.ca/fish/sportfishing
Habitattitude: www.habitattitude.ca

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: The MacQuarries
Snapshots
M. Landry
UPDATE: After many late
night travels across the
highway, around the
community hall, and up
Senator Oliver’s driveway,
Fern finally chose to nest on
Arlyn and Jeanette Turner’s
property this year.
B. Caverhill
Fern in the garden
Gerald gardens around
Fern’s eggs
You never know how close you may be to species
at risk- they may even nest in your garden!
Gerald and Evelyna MacQuarrie
live in Pleasant River. One
night in June they were
surprised to discover Fern
the Blanding’s Turtle digging
a nest in their garden.
They called researchers
in the area and were
amazed to watch
Fern lay her eggs
that night. After the
nest was concealed, they covered it to protect
the eggs from predators. Gerald
“didn’t mind at all” gardening around
the nest and he enjoys keeping
an eye out for Fern during
the nesting season.
Fern has nested on
three neighbouring
properties in the
last three years
and Gerald and
Evelyna hope that she will
return this June.
38

FORESTRY PRACTICES
Forestry practices impact the landscape, and good planning with sound ecological
management can go a long way towards preventing damage to wildlife habitat. Both large
forestry companies and small woodlot owners are a vital component for the stewardship
of species at risk in forested landscapes. In Nova Scotia, forestry activities occur largely on
privately owned land. Small woodlot owners own almost half of the forested land in this
province and can make a huge difference by using sustainable forestry techniques. The
following are recommended forestry practices for lands with species at risk.
Avoid harvesting in Blanding’s Turtle
nesting habitat in June.
This will minimize danger to female turtles
travelling to nesting sites.
Blanding’s Turtle
Boreal Felt Lichen
American Marten
Practice uneven-aged management using techniques such as (but not limited to)
selection harvesting and patch cutting.
Currently, even-aged management through clearcutting is the most common harvest practice (over 90%)
in Nova Scotia. This creates a forest with trees that are of one age class and similar height. Some species,
such as balsam fir and white birch, may be found in even-aged stands because of their natural disturbance
patterns. Uneven-aged management helps to maintain the forests natural biodiversity and structural
components by maintaining forest cover, improving stand quality, and having a woodlot composed of
diverse ages and species. Uneven-aged management offers long-term rewards such as an increase in the
harvest volume of select valuable trees, which can benefit the landowner and the creatures that share
their land. High value trees that thrive in uneven-aged Acadian forests include red spruce, sugar maple,
yellow birch, beech, and hemlock.
Maintain the natural vegetation and forest canopy around watercourses.
Practicing uneven-aged management will help to maintain the forest canopy throughout the woodlot
and will be beneficial to wildlife and the watercourse. If you are practicing even-aged management and
harvesting all the trees in an area, the Nova Scotia Forests Act requires a 20 m Special Management Zone
along watercourses. A vegetated zone that is at least one to two tree lengths would be better, with 100 m
(330 feet) ideal.
Incorporate tree marking into your woodlot management.
Tree marking is the practice of carefully considering which trees to harvest based on tree size, health,
39

wildlife habitat value, and with the biodiversity and improved quality of the woodlot in mind. It aims to
create a healthy, productive and diverse forest, and ensure a constant supply of high quality wood.
Leave at least 30 m (100 feet) of vegetation around woodland pools and wet areas.
Woodland pools and wet areas are small depressions that collect rain and spring melt water to form
shallow pools. They are not wet continuously, and fill and drain throughout the year. Woodland pools and
wet areas do not fall under the official wetland status but are important habitat for Blanding’s Turtles and
breeding areas for frogs and salamanders. Walking through your woodlot and using practices such as tree
marking may make it easier to find and identify woodland pools and wet areas.
Keep logging roads at least 150 m (500 feet) from lake shorelines and wetlands.
If any logging roads will not be used and maintained, consider decommissioning them by using barricades
to discourage traffic after operations are completed. Never operate heavy equipment near lake shorelines
or wetlands.
Funding available!
The Association for Sustainable Forestry, through the Department of Natural Resources, has
funding available to promote uneven-aged forestry practices such as crop tree release, selection
management, and crop tree pruning. Call the Association for Sustainable Forestry (902-895-1179)
or visit www.asforestry.com/category7program.htm for more information
T. McMullin
M. Crowley
Resources:
Nova Scotia Woodlot Owners and Operations Association
www.nswooa.blogspot.com
An independent organization of woodlot owners and operators that achieve prosperity, stewardship, and
solidarity through the practice of ecologically, socially, and economically sustainable forestry practices.
The association holds an annual field day to promote and teach uneven-aged management techniques by
visiting woodlots and woodlot owners who are practicing it. Call 902-633-2108, email nswooa@gmail.com,
or visit the website for more information.
Contractors and Operators Best Management Practices Manual
www.novaforestalliance.com
Produced by the Nova Forest Alliance. To purchase (for $15) call 902-639-2921 or order it online.
Restoring the Acadian Forest: A Guide to Forest Stewardship for Woodlot Owners in the Maritimes
www.restelluris.ca
Written by Jamie Simpson. A great resource for woodlot owners in the Maritimes. To purchase (for $20) visit
the website or contact the author at bocabec@gmail.com or 902-429-1335.
Ontario Tree Marking Guide, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
www.mnr.gov.on.ca
Available free online or can be ordered (for $27.50) by calling 1-800-667-1940.
Woodlot Management Home Study Program
www.gov.ns.ca/natr/extension/woodlot/
Online modules by the Department of Natural Resources for those who want to learn more about managing
their woodlands. Visit the website to get started or call 1-866-226-7577 for more information.
Woodlot Demonstrations
The Department of Natural Resources holds woodlot demonstrations every year to highlight sustainable
forestry practices. For more information contact the Department of Natural Resource’s Stewardship and
Outreach section: 1-866-226-7577 or woodlot@gov.ns.ca.
40

NOVA SCOTIA WOODLOT OWNER OF THE YEAR
Honouring Outstanding Stewardship on Private Woodlots
This award recognizes and rewards private woodlot owners for their sustainable forestry practices
and aims to inspire others to do the same. One woodlot is selected each year for the Eastern,
Central, and Western regions of Nova Scotia. Visit www.gov.ns.ca/natr/extension/woya to read
about the present and past winners. You can nominate a woodlot owner for next year’s award
online at the website above or by calling 1-866-226-7577.
NS DNR
NS DNR
Honourable Minister David Morse with the 2008 provincial Woodlot Owner of the Year recipients, the McNally family.
MTRI woodlot demonstration
Every October the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute
organizes a woodlot demonstration. In 2007, Lyman
Huskins hosted the demonstration on his woodland near
the Mersey River. The demonstrations are always a mix of
information about local research and about sustainable
forestry techniques. Refer to the resources section
MTRI
for additional woodlot demonstration opportunities.
Explaining the importance of deadwood as habitat for wildlife.
Uneven-Aged Management Workshops
Uneven-aged management workshops were held
throughout the province by the Association for
Sustainable Forestry in the spring of 2008. These
workshops were free to attend and were carried
out by Patrica Amero and Sandy Hyde of Picea
Forestry Consulting and members of the Nova
Scotia Woodlot Owners and Operators Association.
Anyone currently practicing or interested in
practicing uneven-aged management was
welcome to attend. Five of the workshops
were focused on woodlot owners and one was
tailored to contractors. All workshops were full,
showing the high level of interest in unevenaged
management in this province. Contact the
Association for Sustainable Forestry (902-895-
1179) if you are interested in learning more.
Workshop trip to Peter and Candace Christiano’s woodlot where
hardwood tree growth has been encouraged by practicing uneven-aged
management techniques.
P. Amero
41

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: Pat Hudson and
Snapshots
Lillian Perry
M. Crowley
L. Perry
Coastal Plain Flora Monitoring
Checking live turtle traps
at a nature camp
Pat enjoying the sunset on
Barrington Lake
P. Hudson
Pat Hudson and Lillian Perry are sisters and
have had cottages on Barrington Lake for many
years. For the past 10 years, Lillian has been
observing and monitoring over 20 species of
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora, including
Tubercled Spike-rush and Virginia
Meadow-Beauty. She has noticed
that these species frequently
move to different places
on Barrington Lake and
that it is important
to protect all areas
that are good habitat.
Pat has also been
involved with flora surveys, and they both plan
to continue rare plant monitoring and looking
for other species at risk in the area. Pat writes
funding proposals to run children and adult nature
camps. She teaches about the special
nature of the southern shore and
part of the program involves learning
about species at risk. Pat and Lillian
are also involved in the Piping
Plover Guardian program
and the Breeding Bird
Atlas. Their enthusiasm
and love of nature is an
inspiration to others.
42

AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES
Agricultural lands are a vital part of our landscape and provide us with fresh, local food.
However, agricultural practices can impact water quality and wildlife habitat. There are many
beneficial practices that farmers can adopt to ensure that the land and water resources
near the farm are healthy. Below are some practices that can be easily incorporated into
the farm operation to benefit both the farm and its associated wildlife.
Short-Eared Owl
Re-establish or maintain the natural vegetation
around all water bodies.
A riparian zone is the land next to streams, rivers, lakes, ponds,
and wetlands. Vegetated riparian zones with trees and shrubs
benefit both the farm operation and wildlife habitat. Farm
activities, land topography (including slope), and soil type all play a role in the width of vegetation that
is required. Any width provides some benefits but at least 30 m (100 feet) is ideal.
Eastern Ribbonsnake
43
Do not infill or alter the wetlands on your property.
Historical land practices often promoted the infilling of wetlands to the detriment of many species. We now
recognize the vital ecosystem functions that wetlands provide, and that they represent unique habitat for
many wildlife species. Any wetland alteration requires approval from Nova Scotia Environment.
Reduce or eliminate pesticide, herbicide, and chemical fertilizer use.
Crop rotation and planting autumn cover crops can reduce soil erosion and the need for pesticides,
herbicides, and chemical fertilizers. If you choose to apply chemicals, ensure that you do so at least 30
m (100 feet) away from water sources and wetlands and do not spray before a rain event or in windy
conditions. This will reduce the effects of pesticide runoff and drift.
Ensure that your fertilizers, chemicals, and fuels are properly stored in a contained
area well away from wetlands and water bodies.
This will ensure they do not contaminate surface or ground water. Contact the Environmental Farm Plan
program for current guidelines (902-893-2293).
Plough or till across a slope (with the contour) instead of up and down.
Each furrow acts as a barrier to slow overland runoff and soil erosion. Avoid ploughing in the fall, which
will result in soil erosion during the winter. If ploughing must be done, plant a cover crop to prevent
erosion during the winter months.

Farms with livestock operations should fence around all water sources and wetlands,
and establish a watering station away from the natural water source.
This is beneficial to both livestock health and the environment. Livestock trample vegetation and compact
the soil, which alters riparian habitat, increases erosion, and impacts fish habitat and water quality.
Fencing will reduce the amount of manure and urine entering waterways and can make livestock less
susceptible to mastitis and foot-rot. Solar and wind watering systems are available. Contact the Soil and
Crop Improvement Association of Nova Scotia for information on alternative livestock watering systems:
www.scians.org, 902-758-3530.
Avoid in-stream livestock crossings.
In-stream crossings cause erosion, decrease water quality, and destroy wildlife habitat. Alternative types of
crossings including round culverts, arch culverts, and bridges. A Watercourse Alteration Permit from Nova
Scotia Environment (Appendix C) is required before building an agricultural stream crossing.
Store manure well away from the water in such a way that runoff is contained and
infiltration is reduced.
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora species are adapted to harsh, low nutrient environments. Overland runoff
can increase the level of nutrients present in these habitats and make them more suitable for common,
aggressive plant species. Vegetated riparian zones and reduced fertilizer and manure use can help decrease
the release of nutrients into our water bodies. Please contact the Department of Agriculture (902-679-6006)
for information about manure storage.
Plant cover crops over the winter if your soil is bare.
Cover crops reduce erosion, enrich the soil, and can attract beneficial insects to your property. If planting
before August, legumes such as sweet clover and white clover are beneficial cover crops as they fix
nitrogen and provide habitat and food for beneficial insects. If you are planting late in the season, winter
rye is a good choice.
Set disc mower blades higher than 10 cm and use a flushing bar when harvesting hay
or cutting grass by roadsides to avoid contact with turtles, birds, and other wildlife.
Setting your disc mower blades higher than 10 cm reduces blade contact with turtles, bird nests, and
small mammals without having a substantial impact on the hay harvest. Mowing higher reduces blade
wear, water runoff and can improve yields by increasing soil moisture levels. A flushing bar on the front of
the tractor during hay harvest or roadside cutting will reduce contact with birds, deer and other wildlife.
Contact Ducks Unlimited (902-667-8726) if you are interested in obtaining a flushing bar.
Vegetated Riparian Zones
• Are areas of rich biodiversity and provide a variety of
wildlife habitats.
• Filter overland runoff including sediments, pesticides,
and nutrients before they enter the water.
• Reduce the amount and severity of flooding.
• Create important feeding and hiding places and improve
water temperature for aquatic species.
• Is an easy and inexpensive way to stabilize stream banks,
maintain biodiversity, and reduce erosion, eliminating
the need for mechanical bank stabilization.
Clean Annapolis River Project
Riparian Habitat Restoration and Stewardship Program
Clean Annapolis River Project works in the Annapolis River Watershed to restore and protect the ecological
health of the watershed through science, leadership, and community engagement. They work with landowners
to enhance and protect riparian habitat by fencing livestock out of riparian zones, providing alternate sources of
drinking water, installing stream crossings, and re-establishing vegetation by planting trees and shrubs. For more
information call 902-532-7533 or 1-888-547-4344, email carp@annapolisriver.ca, or visit www.annapolisriver.ca.
44

Resources:
Water on the Farm: Beneficial Management Practices Around Surface Water
Tips on how to reduce the impact of agricultural activities on surface water. To obtain a free
copy or for other information please call the Department of Agriculture at 902-679-6021.
Nova Scotia Farm Investment Fund
www.gov.ns.ca/agri/prm
You may be eligible to apply for funding to help incorporate beneficial management practices
on your farm. Call the Department of Agriculture at 1-866-844-4276 or visit the above website
for more information.
Environmental Farm Plan Program
www.nsfa-fane.ca/EFP
This program evaluates current farm practices with one-on-one site visits and
provides an environmental action plan that identifies environmental risks on
your property. This program is free and confidential. For more information please
refer to the website or call 902-893-2293.
Beneficial Management Practices for Riparian Zones in Atlantic Canada
www.islandnaturetrust.ca
Written by the Island Nature Trust. Provides information on ways to maintain or create a
healthy riparian zone. Download an electronic copy from the website above or call 902-566-
9150 to request a free hard copy.
Nova Scotia Riparian Health Assessment User Guide
www.extensioncentral.com
A step-by-step guide on how to assess the health of your riparian zone using a GPS unit.
Contact the Department of Agriculture (902-679-6021) for a free copy.
Nova Scotia’s Eastern Habitat Joint Venture (EHJV)
EHJV was formed in 1989 with the purpose of reducing and/or reversing wetland loss through
community-based stewardship efforts with individual landowners and through partnerships.
Participate in the Agriculture Biodiversity Plan to receive a free personalized site visit and
voluntary recommendations on ways to support biodiversity on your farm. For more information
please contact the Stewardship Coordinator Reg Newell at 902-679-6145, newellrb@gov.ns.ca
Globally Rare Species
In Nova Scotia, the populations
of Long’s Bulrush, New Jersey
Rush, Plymouth Gentian, and
Pink Coreopsis are some of the
largest remaining and most
intact worldwide. We have
the opportunity to conserve
these rare species not only for
ourselves, but for the planet.
The gathering or picking of wildflowers is a
time-honoured pastime. Please ensure those
you pick are not rare or at risk. The removal
of a few flowers may threaten the entire
Nova Scotia population.
Photographing Long’s Bulrush
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
R. Newell
45
Lake shoreline covered in Plymouth Gentian
Plymouth Gentian
New Jersey Rush

STEWARDSHIP STORIES: The Coles
Snapshots
M. Crowley
Their shoreline vegetation
provides habitat for wildlife
Eastern Ribbonsnake
B. Caverhill
Eric and Judy have both observed
that the number of turtles and
snakes have declined in their area.
Eric grew up in South Brookfield and
remembers seeing many Eastern
Ribbonsnakes (or “watersnakes”)
as a child at a brook near his house.
Judy has noticed that the number of
Ribbonsnakes have declined over
the years. Blanding’s Turtles used
to be present around their property
and they have now disappeared
from the area. We have a chance
to reverse this trend by becoming
stewards and maintaining the
wildlife habitats on our land!
Eric and Judy Cole live in North Brookfield in
a house built by Judy’s great, great, great,
grandfather in 1820. Their property borders
a river and two lakes and they share their
property with a multitude of species such as
flying squirrels, herons, snakes, turtles, old
white ash trees, common
nighthawks, and owls.
Judy grew up on this
property and has
seen Eastern
Ribbonsnakes
e ve r y ye a r
since she was a child. Enjoying and observing
the wildlife around them is a natural part of
their day-to-day life. Judy keeps
a journal of “nature notes”
and Eric walks their property
daily looking for wildlife .
They report their Eastern
Ribbonsnake sightings
to the Recovery
Team and enjoy
being a part of
the recovery
effort.
46

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Humans are a part of the natural environment and swimming, hiking, biking, snowshoeing, skiing,
canoeing, kayaking, and camping are all great ways to enjoy the outdoors. Try to leave the areas
you visit in the same state as when you first arrived so that you and others can enjoy these places
in the future. Share the experiences you have and the Leave No Trace principles with your friends
and family and encourage them to spend time outdoors as well.
Keep it Wild!
The seven Leave No Trace principles are great guidelines to follow when spending time in the
woods:
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Others
For more details on each of these principles and to learn more about Leave No Trace Canada please
visit www.leavenotrace.ca or call 1-877-238-9343.
To request a copy of “Keep it Wild: A Guide for Low Impact Recreation in Nova Scotia’s Wilderness
Areas” call the Nova Scotia Environment Protected Areas Branch: 902-424-2117.
Children and Nature
Kids today are spending less time in nature and more time indoors. It is
estimated that children spend over 30 hours a month with electronics and
less than an hour in nature. Studies have found that kids can readily
identify hundreds of corporate logos but few things in their backyard.
The author of “Last Child in the Woods”, Richard Louv describes this as
“nature deficit disorder” and has found that a lost connection with the
outdoors can increase the chances of depression and obesity. Children are
our future - a strong connection with nature as a child can result in support
as an adult to preserve and protect our precious natural areas. Our world
is changing fast, we must reconnect our children. To view some nature
activities for kids and families visit:
Adventure Earth Centre: www.earthed.ns.ca
Richard Louv’s site: http://richardlouv.com/children-nature-resources
S. Eaton
47

THINKING AHEAD
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
TRACKING YOUR PROGRESS
We hope that you have found the information in this guide useful and that you take the time
to observe the life around you and see how an increase in wildlife habitat will reward you with
many natural wonders. Take pictures of your property over time to record the beneficial changes
you are making to your land. Get the whole family involved, learn the names of the animals and
plants that share your property with you and record the species you notice. See if you observe a
greater diversity of native birds, snakes, turtles, butterflies, frogs, wildflowers, shrubs and plants.
Remember to share what you learn and see with your friends, family, and neighbours.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: WORKING WITH YOUR LAND
People like to build along lake shorelines because they are
attracted to the natural beauty and wonder of the area. If we
can maintain the natural landscape from the start of the building
process, we can eliminate years of effort trying to revert the
transformed landscape back to its natural beauty.
If you are building or renovating your house or cottage try to:
Build the structure into the land and existing features rather than trying to make the land
•
conform to the structure.
• Build your road or make sure the developer keeps the road well back from the water body
to ensure that you can build at least 30 m (100 feet) from the water.
• Leave existing trees, rocks, and other natural features to keep unique landmarks on the
property, increase visual diversity, and to help maintain natural biodiversity. This also
reduces the amount of exposed soils (a rare event in natural ecosystems), which reduces
the chance of introducing invasive alien plants.
Modify the land in phased intervals over a period of years rather than all at once to give
•
the land time to heal and recover.
By keeping the surrounding habitat as natural as possible you will have the maximum opportunity
to enjoy and relax and will minimize your footprint on wildlife and species at risk.
48

NSNT
NSNT
The Nova Scotia Nature Trust (NSNT) is a non-profit charitable conservation organization that works
to protect Nova Scotia’s unique natural heritage and native biodiversity by permanently protecting
private lands in the province. The NSNT works with private landowners to preserve and steward
priority conservation lands in perpetuity, through education and outreach programs, land acquisition
and conservation easements. The NSNT also works with volunteers to monitor and record changes
in known populations of Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora. Rare plant monitors can help us track changes
in habitats or plant populations for these unique and fragile plants.
Land stewardship is an excellent way for landowners to safeguard the natural resources on their
properties, and to become more familiar with the ecological aspects of their surroundings. Some
landowners may be interested in permanently protecting their forests, their shorelines, their
wetlands or other areas of ecological concern. By working with a land trust (such as the NSNT)
you may be able to protect your property forever by working towards a conservation easement, or
by selling or donating all or a portion of your land. These legal means of securement ensure the
protection of habitat indefinitely for future generations.
For more information on the NSNT or Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora, visit www.nsnt.ca. The resources
section on this website includes a guide to the Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora of Nova Scotia, which
can help you identify these plants on your property. You can also reach the NSNT by email: nature@
nsnt.ca, or phone: 1-877-434-5263.
TREPA
CRK Allen Nature Reserve
Annual survey and plant count
49
TREPA
TREPA
The Tusket River Environmental Protection Association (TREPA) was formed
in 1986 and is involved in environmental advocacy and protection in
southwestern Nova Scotia, particularly Yarmouth County and the Tusket
River catchment area.
Part of their mandate includes the protection of Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora,
with an emphasis on species at risk. They work with local landowners
to increase awareness and educate people about the importance of
these plants. They own and operate the CRK Allen Nature Reserve on
Gillfillan Lake, which was established to protect a variety of rare Atlantic
Coastal Plain Flora species, including Plymouth Gentian. TREPA members
regularly monitor this reserve and do an annual plant count every August.
For more information visit www.trepa.com, or contact the president John
Sollows at nhungjohn@ns.sympatico.ca or 902-742-2802.

Yellow Spots on Shell When Wet
APPENDIX A: Identification and Range Information
Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii ENDANGERED
J. McNeil
L. Arsenault
M. Crowley
Adult Juvenile Hatchling
Description
• Adults are medium-sized turtles (15-25 cm long) with long necks and bright yellow throats.
• The upper shell (carapace) is smooth and high-domed. When wet it is black with yellowish spots
and when dry it is dark grey.
• The lower shell (plastron) is yellow with large black blotches.
• Hatchlings are toonie-sized, have pale yellow throats, long thin tails, and solid grey/black upper
shells. Their lower shell is yellow with a central black blotch.
Range
• Located in southwestern Nova Scotia.
• Currently grouped into four populations: Kejimkujik National
Park and National Historic Site, McGowan Lake, Tobeatic Wilderness
Area, and Pleasant River.
Threats
• Road mortality affects adults and hatchlings.
• Habitat loss and fragmentation from land modification and development.
Predators such as raccoons, small mammals and birds eat eggs, hatchlings, and juveniles.
•
Carapace (back) Plastron (belly)
Bright Yellow Throat
50

Eastern Ribbonsnake Thamnophis sauritus
THREATENED
B. Caverhill
B. Caverhill
Description
• Slender black semi-aquatic snake with three distinct yellow stripes along its entire length.
• Caramel brown sides and a pale white or yellow belly.
• Generally between 50 and 70 cm long. Newborn Ribbonsnakes are about 20 cm long and look the
same as adults.
• White tear-drop scale in front of each eye.
Range
• Found in southwest Nova Scotia but
its full range is currently unknown.
Threats
• Road mortality on highways and trails.
• Declining amphibian populations.
• Invasive fish species (chain pickerel and smallmouth bass).
• Habitat loss and alteration (shoreline development, wetland alteration, road construction).
Predation by domestic animals such as dogs and cats.
•
Typical Eastern Ribbonsnake habitat
White Tear-Drop
Yellow Stripes
No Need to Fear Snakes!
None of the five snake species that live here
are venomous or harmful. These elegant
creatures are often misunderstood and hated,
even though they play an important role in the
environment, and in our own backyards! They
help control pests, are food for wildlife, and
are exciting to discover and admire. Please
do not take wild snakes home as pets. Happy
snakes are wild snakes and there is seldom a
need to capture, touch, or hold them.
Thankfully, many people understand and
appreciate these creatures. Please follow their
courageous lead, and be kind and respect our
no-legged friends. They have an important
role to play here in Nova Scotia, which they
call home like you and I.
Holding a snake for research purposes
J. McNeil
51

Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora
Nova Scotia is home to 90 species of Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora. This guide focuses on the 11
species listed under the Species at Risk Act and the Nova Scotia Endangered Species Act; however,
many other species of Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora are found in the same habitats and will benefit
from habitat stewardship.
Range
• Concentrated in southwest Nova Scotia.
• New Jersey Rush is found in Cape Breton
• One Eastern Lilaeopsis population is in Cumberland County.
Threats
• Cottage development and its associated activities, including lake shoreline modification, wetland
alteration, land clearing, and road building.
• An increase in nutrients and sediment from cottages, forestry, and agricultural operations.
Identification Tip:
Some species may be easiest to identify when they are in flower. Refer below for flowering times and try
to walk your property during these times to look for these species. This way you know where
they are growing when they are more difficult to spot. Keep in mind some species
(Redroot, Water-pennywort) flower irregularly, while others typically do not
flower (Long’s Bulrush).
Pink Coreopsis Coreopsis rosea
• Found on lake shorelines.
• 20-60 cm tall.
• Daisy-like flowers with yellow centres.
• Pink/white petals 8-13 mm long.
• Opposite, smooth leaves.
• Flowers mid-July to mid-September.
ENDANGERED
M. Crowley
Thread-leaved Sundew Drosera filiformis
• Found in bogs.
• 15-25 cm tall.
• Long, vertical leaves covered in reddish/purple sticky
glands.
• Has a tall flowing stalk with 6-15 flower buds.
• Flower buds bloom individually from bottom of stalk
to top.
• Has violet flowers with yellow centers.
• Flowers mid-July to August.
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
This plant is carnivorous! Its sticky leaves trap insects that it digests to
obtain extra nutrients.
52

THREATENED
M. Crowley
S. Boates
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
M. Crowley
Redroot Tubercled Spikerush Golden Crest Plymouth Gentian Water-pennywort
Flower Close-Up
Redroot Lachnanthes carolinana
• Found on lake shorelines.
Up to 40 cm tall.
•
• Long, narrow, vertically oriented leaves.
• Its flowering stalk is 20-40 cm tall. At the top, 10-30 light yellow flowers
are clustered together and covered in pale yellow hairs.
• Flowers from August to September, however, flowering is uncommon.
Spikes Close-Up
Tubercled Spike-rush Eleocharis tuberculosa
• Found on lake shorelines.
10-40 cm tall.
•
Stiffly erect flattened stems that grow in dense patches.
•
Distinct oval spike found at the top of each stem.
•
Spikes are made of tiny flowers that turn into dry one-seeded fruit.
•
Flowers in August.
•
Water-pennywort Hydrocotyle umbellata
Non-Flowering Plant
Basal Rosette
Golden Crest Lophiola aurea
• Found on lake shoreline and in wetlands.
• Up to 50 cm tall.
• Small, bright yellow flowers that bloom at differing times.
• Flowering stalks covered in distinctive white woolly hairs.
• Grass-like leaves.
• Flowers August to September.
Plymouth Gentian Sabatia kennedyana
• Found on lake shorelines.
30-50 cm tall.
•
• 1-10 pink flowers with yellow centres.
• Opposite, lance shaped leaves.
• Can be recognized by its basal rosette when not in flower.
• Flowers from mid-July to mid-September.
Flower Close-Up
• Found on lake shorelines.
• Each leaf is rounded with curved edges; 1-3 cm wide.
• Tiny white flowers cluster in a sphere on top of a flower stalk.
• Typically found just above or below the waterline.
• It grows upright above the water and in shallow water (10-30 cm tall
stalks).
53
• Floats on surface of deeper water (leaf stalks can be >1 meter).
• Flowers from July to September, flowering is infrequent.

SPECIAL CONCERN
M. Crowley
NS DNR
M. Crowley M. Crowley
Sweet Pepperbush
Eastern Lileopsis New Jersey Rush Long’s Bulrush
Start of Flower
Eastern Lilaeopsis Lilaeopsis chinensis
• Found in estuaries, semi-aquatic.
Narrow, rounded dark green leaves, originate from a horizontal stem.
•
• Each leaf is 3-5 cm long.
• 5-8 small, white, five petal flowers grow at the top of flower stalks.
• Flowers from August to September.
Fruit Capsules
Flower Close-Up
New Jersey Rush Juncus caesariensis
• Found in bogs and fens.
• 40-70 cm tall.
• Elongated, cylindrical leaves.
• Has clusters of green flowers that turn into brown fruit capsules.
• Stem and leaves rough to the touch.
• Flowers from July to August.
Sweet Pepperbush Clethra alnifolia
• Found on lake and river shorelines.
Woody shrub found in dense thickets.
•
Each large white flower is composed of small flowers with five petals
•
(8 mm in length) that grow off a central stem.
• Shiny, alternate, serrated leaves 7-15 cm long.
• Flowers in mid-August to mid-October.
Leaf Close-Up
Long’s Bulrush Scirpus longii
• Found on lake shorelines and in wetlands.
Forms circular colonial clusters that are empty in the middle.
•
Tough, serrated leaves 60-80 cm long and 5-10 mm wide.
•
Typically does not flower in Nova Scotia unless disturbed (by all-
•
terrain vehicles, fire, etc). Flowering may make this plant vulnerable
to hybridization with the common Woolly Bulrush species.
Interested in learning more
The Nova Scotia Nature Trust has produced a Guide to the Atlantic Coastal
Plain Flora of Nova Scotia. It can be downloaded from www.nsnt.ca/pdf/
ACPF_Field_Guide.pdf
Visit www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora for information and pictures.
54

APPENDIX C: Contact Information
Blanding’s Turtle
Thread-leaved Sundew
Recovery Team Co-chairs:
BLANDING’S TURTLE
Tom Herman, Acadia University...............................tom.herman@acadiau.ca
Stephen Flemming, Parks Canada......................stephen.flemming@pc.gc.ca
Mark Elderkin, NS DNR, Wildlife Division .........................elderkmf@gov.ns.ca
ATLANTIC COASTAL PLAIN FLORA
Sherman Boates, NS DNR, Wildlife Division ........................boatesjs@gov.ns.ca
Samara Eaton, NS DNR, Wildlife Division......................sameaton@eastlink.ca
Eastern Ribbonsnake
EASTERN RIBBONSNAKE
Steve Mockford, Acadia University.................stephen.mockford@acadiau.ca
Mark Elderkin, NS DNR, Wildlife Division..........................elderkmf@gov.ns.ca
Stephen Flemming, Parks Canada.....................stephen.flemming@pc.gc.ca
PARKS CANADA: KEJIMKUJIK NATIONAL PARK
If you are interested in becoming involved in species at risk volunteer
programs or if you have any questions or comments about this landowner
stewardship guide please contact the Species at Risk Scientist at 902-682-2117.
MERSEY TOBEATIC RESEARCH INSTITUTE
9 Mount Merritt Road, Kempt, Queens County
902-682-2371 or 1-866-727-3447...................................info@merseytobeatic.ca
Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute (MTRI) is a research co-operative that
operates a field station for researchers studying species at risk and other
topics. The mission of the charity is to promote sustainable use of natural
resources in southwestern Nova Scotia through research and education.
Volunteers help MTRI achieve its mission by helping with fieldwork, planning,
and educational activities. Membership to MTRI is free and is a great way to
learn about stewardship opportunities.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
General Inquiries (Wildlife Division): 902-679-6091
Regional Biologists
A - Peter MacDonald: 902-563-3370.....................................macdonpr@gov.ns.ca
B - John Mills: 902-634-7525......................................................millsjk@gov.ns.ca
C - Kimberly George: 902-893-5630........................................georgeka@gov.ns.ca
D - Doug R. Archibald: 902-893-6353.......................................archibdr@gov.ns.ca
E - Mark Pulsifer: 902-863-7523............................................pulsifmd@gov.ns.ca
F - Don Anderson: 902-295-3949..........................................andersdg@gov.ns.ca
G - Terry Power: 902-563-3370................................................powertd@gov.ns.ca
58

NOVA SCOTIA ENVIRONMENT
General Inquiries: 902-424-3600
Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Division
Ask to speak with your local area inspector.
Western Region: Lunenburg and Queens Counties: 902-543-4685
Digby, Yarmouth, and Shelburne Counties: 902-742-8985
Kings and Annapolis Counties: 902-679-6086
Central Region: 902-424-2382
Northern Region: Cumberland County: 902-667-6205
Antigonish and Guysborough Counties: 902-863-7401
Colchester County: 902-893-5880
Pictou County: 902-396-4194
Eastern Region: Richmond County, S. Inverness: 902-625-4323
CBRM, Victoria County and N. Inverness: 902-563-2100
Protected Areas Branch
For information about formal stewardship or science and monitoring in
provincial protected areas email protectedareas@gov.ns.ca, visit www.gov.
ns.ca/nse/protectedareas, or contact:
Western Region: 902-543-4685
Central Region: 902-424-2117
Eastern Region: 902-563-2100
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Resource Stewardship Division
Western Region - Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth, and Shelburne Counties
Dennis Moerman: 902-837-5161....................................moermade@gov.ns.ca
Valley Region - West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg, and Queens Counties
Brian MacCulloch: 902-679-6006......................................macculbc@gov.ns.ca
NOVA SCOTIA MUSEUM
Marian Munro, Curator of Botany: 902-424-3564..................zinckmc@gov.ns.ca
Andrew Hebda, Curator of Zoology: 902-424-6455..................hebdaaj@gov.ns.ca
MUNICIPAL CONTACTS
Land use by-laws in Nova Scotia can vary based on what municipality you live
in. Please contact your local municipal office to learn about the land-use bylaws
in your region. There are 55 municipal units in Nova Scotia: 3 regional, 21
rural, and 31 towns. Refer to the membership directory on the Union of Nova
Scotia Municipalities website (www.unsm.ca) to obtain contact information
for the 31 towns.
59
Annapolis County................902-532-2331
Antigonish County...............902-863-1117
Argyle District......................902-648-2311
Barrington District................902-637-2015
Cape Breton Regional...........902-563-5005
Chester District....................902-275-3554
Clare District........................902-769-2031
Colchester County................902-897-3160
Cumberland County ...........902-667-2313
Digby District.......................902-245-4777
Guysborough District...........902-533-3705
Halifax Regional...................902-490-4000
East Hants District...............902-758-2299
West Hants District..............902-798-8391
Inverness County................902-787-2274
Kings County.......................902-678-6141
Lunenburg District...............902-543-8181
Pictou County......................902-485-4311
Region of Queens................902-354-3453
Richmond County................902-226-2400
Shelburne District................902-875-3083
St. Mary’s District................902-522-2049
Victoria County...................902-295-3231
Yarmouth District................902-742-7159

APPENDIX D: Permits and Developmental
Restrictions
PERMITS
Listed below are some of the more common permits that may be required around lake shoreline
and wetland habitats. It is always best to call the appropriate departments early in the planning
stage. However, there is much you can do beyond legal requirements to enjoy your land and help
the species at risk that live in your backyard.
J. McKinnon
J. McKinnon
Permits Issued by Nova Scotia Environment
For more information please call 902-742-8985 or visit www.gov.ns.ca/nse/permits. This website lists
all of Nova Scotia Environment’s permit application forms.
Shorelines
The “Water Approval” permit is required prior to undertaking activities that modify the lake shoreline
and is required for all lake shoreline alterations below the ordinary high water mark.
Dock Building
Lake waters, lake bottoms, and the land up to the high water mark is crown land and owned by the
province. Contact your local area inspector at Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C) to see if you
need to apply for the “Water Approval” permit before you start building your dock (In section 4 of
the permit, dock building falls under “Other Alterations”).
*
The federal Fisheries Act protects fish habitat by prohibiting any work that results in the
harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat (unless authorized first by
the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada). It also prohibits the deposition of harmful
substances into water bodies containing fish.
Wetlands
The “Wetland Alteration Approval” permit is required to fill, drain, flood, or excavate any wetland
on your property. As wetlands represent sensitive habitats this permit will not be issued if there
are reasonable alternatives or the alteration is for aesthetic purposes only.
On-site Sewage Systems
The provincial Environment Act and the On-site Sewage Disposal Regulations govern all aspects
of installing and maintaining on-site sewage systems. Under these regulations, you must obtain
approval from Nova Scotia Environment before installing a sewage system and hire a qualified
professional. For more information contact your local Environmental Monitoring and Compliance
Division (Appendix C).
Agricultural Stream Crossings
A “Watercourse Alteration Permit” is required before building an agricultural stream crossing.
Permits Issued by Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources
For more information call 902-424-5935, or visit www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/paal/ndxdnr.asp. This website
lists information about permits issued by the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources.
Coastal Wharves
A permit is required to build a wharf or any other structure below the ordinary high water mark in
costal habitats. For more information visit www.gov.ns.ca/natr/land/policybeforeyoubuild.htm or
call 902-424-2494.
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Developmental Restrictions in Yarmouth County
There are developmental restrictions on 13 key Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora lakes in Yarmouth
County including Salmon, Kegeshook, Wilson’s, Third, Gillfillan, Bennett’s, Sloans, Aagard, Lac de
l’Ecole, Pearl, Kempt Snare, Travis, and Lake Fanning. Any shoreline modifications (including dock
building) require a permit and a site assessment from a Department of Natural Resources Regional
Biologist. To apply for a permit and arrange for a site visit please call Nova Scotia Environment at
902-742-8985.
MUNICIPAL REGULATIONS
Land use by-laws in Nova Scotia can vary based on what municipality you live in. Please contact
your local municipal office to learn about the land-use by-laws in your region (Appendix C).
Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve
Southwest Nova Scotia is a region of high biodiversity
and has been designated as a biosphere reserve by the
United Nations. Over 80% of the species at risk in Nova
Scotia are found in this region, and this is one of the
reasons why it has been recognized as a special place.
The biosphere reserve encompasses core protected areas
(including Kejimkujik National Park and the Tobeatic
Wilderness Reserve) and the surrounding landscape
(Digby, Annapolis, Yarmouth, Shelburne, and Queens
counties). The biosphere reserve association works
to promote natural and cultural resource conservation
and sustainable development. Visit the Southwest
Nova Biosphere Reserve Association website for more
information: www.snbra.ca
J. McKinnon
McGowan Lake - Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve
J. McKinnon
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GLOSSARY
Alien Species: Animals and plants that have become established in areas outside their natural
range. Also known as exotic, non-native, or introduced species. Not all alien species are invasive
(for example tulips). See invasive alien species.
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora: The Atlantic coastal plain refers to the relatively flat land along
the Atlantic Coast from Florida to Nova Scotia. Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora are the group of plant
species that are mainly restricted to this area. There are 90 species of Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora
in Nova Scotia.
Biodiversity: The variety of plant and animal life, the genetic variability of each species, and the
variety of different ecosystems within a region. An area with many species and ecosystems has
more biodiversity than an area with only a few.
Brackish Water: Partially salty water found in areas where freshwater and saltwater mix (such as
mouths of rivers entering the ocean).
critical Habitat: Defined in the Species at Risk Act as “the habitat that is necessary for the survival
or recovery of a listed wildlife species” (see page 4).
Ecosystem: A community of plants, animals and microorganisms, along with their environment,
that function together as a unit. An ecosystem can be as large as a forest or as small as a rotting
log.
Invasive Alien species: Animals and plants that have become established in areas outside their
natural range, that have the potential to harm the environment, economy and/or society.
Lake Shoreline: The band of exposed land below the ordinary high water mark extending to the
water’s edge (see page 8).
Ordinary High Water Mark: The highest point on the shoreline where water will rise under normal
weather conditions. It is usually distinguished by the presence of shrubs and other vegetation that
do not tolerate wet conditions (see page 8).
Recovery: The restoration of a species back to a self-perpetuating population size.
Riparian Zone: The land next to water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and wetlands (see page 8).
Species at Risk: Plants and animals that may not exist in the future and need our help. Species
are assessed by experts and are listed under federal and/or provincial laws if they are determined
to be at risk of becoming extinct. Once a species is determined to be at risk, it is placed in one of
six status categories depending on how close it is to extinction within Nova Scotia or Canada. The
categories are Extinct, Extirpated, Endangered, Threatened, Special Concern/Vulnerable, and Not at
Risk (see page 3 for definitions of each).
Stewardship: Ownership of responsibility for the environment. It means caring for the land in a
responsible way to ensure that healthy ecosystems are passed on to future generations.
Wetland: An area that is waterlogged, or partially or completely covered by water, for all or part of
the year. The Canadian Wetland Classification System organizes wetlands into five types (see page
8 for definitions of each).
Did You Know
Some Blanding’s Turtle hatchlings
move very little in a day (10 cm or
less), while others travel hundreds of
meters in one day.
N. Green
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STEWARD SKETCHES
Atlantic Whitefish
Owen Williams
Blanding’s Turtle
Dominic Belong
Plymouth Gentian
Quinn Eaton MacAskill
HELPING SPECIES AT RISK
Kody Bourque
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Blanding’s turtle
Owen Williams
STEWARDSHIP IN ACTION
Karsen Bourque

Acknowledgements
American Marten
Owen Williams
This guide could not have been created without the collaborative efforts of many organizations and
individuals who graciously provided their expertise towards the development of this guide.
Many thanks to the following:
Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora, Blanding’s Turtle,
and Eastern Ribbonsnake Recovery Teams
Parks Canada
Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources
Nova Scotia Environment
Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute
Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service
Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture
Bird Studies Canada
L’sitkuk- Bear River First Nations
IKANAWTIKET
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Tusket River Environmental Protection
Association (TREPA)
Association for Sustainable Forestry
Nova Scotia Nature Trust
Environmental Farm Plan Program
Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture
Government of Canada Habitat Stewardship
Program for Species at Risk
Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation
Nova Forest Alliance
All Terrain Vehicle Association of Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Woodlot Owners and
Operators Association
Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Center
Ecology Action Centre, Forestry Program
Nova Scotia Museum
Soil and Crop Improvement Association
of Nova Scotia
Clean Annapolis River Project (CARP)
Nova Scotia Invasive Species Working Group
Federation of Nova Scotia Woodland Owners
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
A warm thanks to the Keji species at risk team for all their support. And last but not least, a huge
thanks to the landowners who share their land with these species at risk for all their feedback on
the draft text and for their enthusiasm and love for this wonderful part of Nova Scotia.
B. Toms
Megan Crowley (author) and Jennifer McKinnon (designer/illustrator)
Megan Crowley and Jennifer McKinnon teamed
together to write and design this guide.
Megan works as a species at risk stewardship
biologist at Kejimkujik National Park and
National Historic Site. She holds a degree in
Wildlife Biology from Guelph and a Master’s
degree in Resource and Environmental
Management from Dalhousie. Jennifer enjoys
the unique conservation opportunities that
having both a biology degree from Dalhousie
and a background in graphic design (Holland
College) offer, including her work with the
species at risk program at Kejimkujik.
Megan and Jennifer have spent many hours
with amazing stewards and species at risk
in Nova Scotia and love and appreciate living
and working in this special place.
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