NOVA SCOTIA: It was with profound sadness and disappointment that the Moose Conservation Association of Nova Scotia received notification of Nova Scotia Environment Minister Tim Halman’s shortsighted acceptance of the Eigg Mountain Wind Project, Environmental Assessment (EA).
As the final judge and jury of the fate of the resident endangered mainland moose population Mr Halman, with his action, assumed the added role of their executioner.
A review of the 499 pages of internal government and public comments regarding the EA accompanying the Minister’s decision reveals a litany of objections to the project with a light sprinkling of support.
That support is primarily confined to those that will be directly, or indirectly, financial beneficiaries of the project.
Among the most damning revelations are those contained on pages 72-73 of Section 1 of the comments. Those submitted by one of the Minister’s own offices, Protected Areas and Ecosystems.
Comments include “ Available moose -movement data is limited, which may limit the accuracy of modelled or predicted impacts on mainland moose, including in Eigg Mountain – James River Wilderness Area.” and “The EA provides limited information on the potential impacts on Eigg Mountain – James River Wilderness Area.”
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On page 135 of that section an unidentified ( EA comment requirement) biologist states’ “As a biologist, I studied the moose here beginning in 1968. This project lies right in the middle of the last area steadily frequented by mainland moose in the Cape George region.” along with “ I mapped their presence in winter aerial surveys in the 1970’s and early 80’s as the regional biologist.” and “Their intact habitat will be eliminated. The moose will be displaced, with no suitable alternative habitat nearby.”.
Along with these comments several groups outline serious shortcomings of the current EA process around similar projects.
A careful review of both the EA and the comments regarding it reveal the Minister objectives are part of the government’s overall objectives.
That is to erect wind developments regardless of their effects on endangered mainland moose or other serious environmental issues precipitated by them.
The Minister’s apparent disregard for the plight of mainland moose on Eigg Mountain is in direct contravention of the government’s legislated 2021 Mainland Moose Recovery Plan. For that reason MACANS next course of action will be to consult with other interested groups and individuals to determine the appetite for and resources available for a legal challenge of the Minister’s decision.