by Crystal Dorey Director of Communications Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn/Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs

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 real 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.”To view the full story, you must be a subscriber. Click here for information on how to subscribe.