More Valuable Land Protected

The province is designating Five Bridge Lakes as a wilderness area so that generations of Nova Scotians can enjoy nature just minutes away from the city.

Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau and Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker made the announcement today, Oct. 25, at a community celebration in Tantallon.

"Wilderness areas protect our natural spaces, and the wildlife within them," said Mr. Belliveau. "With the designation of this wilderness area, families can continue to participate in outdoor activities like hiking, running, canoeing and fishing, close to the city."

Five Bridge Lakes Wilderness Area is located between Highway 103 and 333, near Halifax. It includes more than 8,000 hectares of forest barrens and lakes, and a small population of endangered mainland moose.

"Protecting biodiversity and expanding the recovery of species at risk are important to Nova Scotians and are key objectives of our natural resources strategy," said Mr. Parker.

"This wilderness area designation is the result of many years of collaboration by more than 30 community groups," said Tom Musial, on behalf of the Chebucto Wilderness Coalition. "Today is not just a celebration of protecting this important part of the province, it's a celebration of what communities can accomplish when we have a shared vision."

Five Bridge Lakes Wilderness Area will contribute to the province's goal to legally protect 12 per cent of its land by 2015. For more information visit www.gov.ns.ca/nse/12percent .