New invasive species are increasingly being found across the Halifax region.
These species can have harmful impacts on local ecosystems. The
municipality is hosting public engagement sessions focused on future
invasive species treatment and management plans.
Hemlock woolly adelgid
Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is a destructive pest that infects eastern
hemlock trees. It was detected in the Halifax Regional Municipality for the first
time in 2023. Without urgent action, HWA will cause harm to forests
throughout the municipality.
The municipality is hosting public engagement sessions focused on
addressing this invasive species.
HWA treatment & Canines for Clean Water mash-up
Members of the municipality's Environment and Climate Change team will
provide community members with information about the work we are doing
to protect the region's riparian zones.
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Hemlock Ravine Park (in the parking lot near Heart Shaped Pond)
Documentary screening and expert Q&A
A collaboration with the Ecology Action Center, this event will feature a
screening of the film In the Quiet, In the Dark and a panel discussion with
Donna Crossland and Chris Googoo.
Time: 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Location: Fairbanks Centre, 54 Locks Road, Shubie Park, Dartmouth
Nature and Biodiversity
We’re so lucky to be surrounded by nature in the Halifax region, with forests, beaches, lakes, wetlands and barrens all around us. Keeping these ecosystems healthy is vital, as they provide us with clean water, store extra water during floods, clean our air and lower air temperatures. Healthy ecosystems also sequester carbon, which helps mitigate climate change.
Climate change projections for our region show that we can expect weather that is wetter, wilder and warmer than ever. Understanding how nature can help us adapt to these changing conditions is essential for building resilient communities. What’s more, access to pristine natural areas contributes to the magic of the municipality and attracts visitors, locals and new residents alike. Ecosystem health is also essential for our non-human residents such as birds, insects, mammals and plants. The biodiversity of our region depends on availability of healthy and diverse habitat.
Here are some ways we're working to protect and understand nature in the Halifax Regional Municipality:
- We're working with the Natural Asset Initiative on a pilot project in the Nine Mile River watershed to identify key natural assets that play a role in stormwater management and climate resilience.
- We were recently awarded Bird Friendly City status from Nature Canada, and continue to work with communities to make our region safer for birds and other wildlife.
- We released an Integrated Pest Management plan in 2022, and continue to work towards more effective management of invasive species.
- We use nature-based resilient landscaping such as rain gardens and naturalized areas to manage stormwater in our parks, right of way spaces and municipal property. We also provide resources for residents to manage excess water on their property using nature-based solutions at home.
- We encourage residents to plant perennials in the boulevard right-of-way, to promote biodiversity and habitat for pollinators.