432-01129 (Environment)

WHEREAS , On March 19th, 2021, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans ordered a full drain of lake pisiquid at every low tide and subsequent ingress of salt water for 10 minutes (min) beginning March 19th and continuing to this day, the following effects have occurred:

• The environmental effects of accelerated stream bank erosion, vegetation loss and silt buildup at lakefront and along shoreline; Loss of freshwater habitat and damage to ecosystem
• Impending potential for fish kill due to silt and shallow waters.
• The social impact of the end to the pisiquid canoe club and its importance to 150 plus youth and their families for seasonal sport AND outdoor childcare
• Financial impacts felt by homeowners as they seek alternative options to water supply.
• Potential end of business for Ski Martock (an employer of 200 people) as there may be no replacement of their fresh water source.
• Potential risk to community due to lack of emergency backup water supply for firefighting (dry hydrant unusable and lakefront unusable in major fire situation)
• Agricultural, financial and food security impact as 2021 crop planning and 2021 livestock watering are in jeopardy as well as future years of productivity.
• Health impacts as the community is complaining of respiratory concerns due to exposed mud flats, and resulting dust "storms"
• Business concerns (unsightly premises, air quality etc)
• Potential decline in property value and interest in development due to the decline in overall waterfront conditions from Windsor to the lake areas of Vaughans (if water adjustments are required upstream)

We, the undersigned citizens and residents of West Hants, Nova Scotia, electors of the riding of Kings Hants, residents of the Province of Nova Scotia, call upon Minister Bernadette Jordan to exercise discretion as provided in 34.1 (1)(h) of the Fisheries Act in issuing ministerial orders and commit to a solution that considers the outcomes for the entire community of West Hants.