FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 13, 2024
On June 1, 2023, the Nova Scotia Provincial Emergency Management Office issued an emergency order to close the gates at the Avon causeway in Windsor, to re-establish the man-made lake, Pisiquid, for possible wildfire suppression and concern over dry hydrants.
This emergency order has continued to be renewed since, most recently on February 8, 2024.
“It is clear this is no longer about wildfire suppression or water availability,” said Chief Sidney Peters, Co-Chair of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs. “How can the province be recovering from record snowfall amounts the same week an Emergency Order is renewed because concerns of fires and dry hydrants? We must ask, what are the genuine motives behind keeping this order in place?”
The change in operation of the gates at the Avon causeway has impounded water and blocked fish passage and does not provide consistent and/or adequate flows resulting in damaging impacts to fish habitat and the ability for fish to complete their lifecycles. As spring approaches, the Mi’kmaq are concerned about the impacts of the closed gates on fish migration.
“We have a responsibility to the environment and know that the closure of these gates will only continue to inhibit smelt and gaspereau runs,” said Chief Gerald Toney, Fisheries Co-Lead for the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs. “The province has created this damaging situation and refuses to work in good faith with the Mi’kmaq.”
In 2021, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans issued a Ministerial Order to regulate gate operations to improve fish habitat and passage. To mitigate any impacts brought about by the federal order, Mi’kmaw representatives worked collaboratively with various stakeholders, agencies and levels of government to find solutions that also enhanced the ecosystem. This work allowed for migratory birds to return to the area, drastic improvements to fish habitat and the ability for fish to complete their lifecycles, and for wildlife and vegetation to flourish.
“The government’s choice to not include the Mi’kmaq, in this blatantly destructive decision, not only has grave impacts to these species and the environment, but also to our Rights and Title. This is a step backwards from any real efforts toward reconciliation,” continued Chief Toney.
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