Recent storms and coastal flooding are a powerful reminder that Nova Scotia's beaches are most vulnerable in the winter. Many who build homes, boardwalks and other structures directly on the beach are seasonal residents. They are rarely present to experience the full force of winter storms and the damage they cause. 

 That's why Nova Scotia's year-round residents historically built away from the beach. They get it. 

  The 1995 Beaches Act shows the minister of Natural Resources understood it too. The act is the beginning of an effort to protect the fragile coastline from short-sighted development. Beaches serve as a natural buffer against the ravages of winter storm surges. With rising sea levels, enforcing the letter and intent of the Beaches Act has never been more critical.  

 More than 100 residents of Kingsburg have signed a petition in part calling for full implementation of the Beaches Act. Everyone in Nova Scotia - seasonal and year-round residents alike - will benefit from immediate action by government officials to put teeth into this existing legislation.

  Historically, local Nova Scotians have not built homes directly on the coast. We should learn from their wisdom and foresight.

 Heather White and Mary Stohn
 Kingsburg Beach Action Committee (KBAC)
 Kingsburg

posted on 01/26/10