Protecting More Wilderness Land Highlights the Start of Environment Week

Nova Scotia is a step closer to designating Five Bridge Lakes Wilderness Area for protection with the release of a socio-economic study for public comment.

The consultation kicks off this year's Environment Week, which is celebrating the theme Preserving our Forests, Protecting our Future. It is one of several events and activities planned to demonstrate the many ways the province protects the environment.

"This area will bring us closer to our goal of legally protecting 12 per cent of our land by 2015," said Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau. "This area will provide Nova Scotians with access to beautiful, natural spaces only a stone's throw from downtown Halifax."

The proposed Five Bridge Lakes Wilderness Area is between Highway 103 and 333 near Halifax. It includes 8,266 hectares of regionally unique forest types, rare species -- including mainland moose, interconnected waterways and exceptional natural landscapes.

The study looks at a range of social and economic factors related to protecting these lands, as required by the Wilderness Areas Protection Act.

The study, and all comments received, will be reviewed and considered when making final recommendations on this proposed wilderness area.

Comments will be accepted until July 8 by e-mail at protectedareas@gov.ns.ca and mail at Nova Scotia Environment, Protected Areas and Wetlands Branch, Box 442, Halifax, N.S., B3J 2P8.

In the event of a disruption to postal service, written comments may be submitted at any local Environment office.

The discussion paper and summary, as well as more information on Five Bridge Lakes Candidate Wilderness area, are available at www.gov.ns.ca/nse/protectedareas or by calling 902-424-2117.