Public Service Announcement

Repair Work at Lock 3

A detour is in place around Shubenacadie Canal Lock #3 until November 1, 2024, for necessary repairs to the structure. The pedestrian crossing at Lock #3 and part of the grassy area behind the Fairbanks Interpretive Centre are closed to pedestrian traffic with detours in place. All services are open as usual.

 Will this affect my usage of the park?

Accessibility of the park will not be affected. This project will have minimal impact on use of the park. Lock 3 behind the Interpretive Centre will be closed for the duration of the project and the pedestrian bridge will be removed. Detours will be in place for pedestrians to go around the lake. For safety, some of the grass will be fenced off to accommodate work vehicles. Signage will direct visitors around the fencing. When trucks are on site, safety staff will direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Some parking spaces will be closed temporarily.

What work is taking place?

A full replacement of the Lock 3 dam. The work being done is a Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables project.

Is the new structure the same as the old dam?

The new dam will be the same size but upgraded to concrete to ensure a more durable structure.

Why is this work taking place?

Lock 3 is deteriorating and requires repairs – these need to be done without delay. Completing those repairs will make no difference in water levels in Lake William, Lake Charles, Lake Micmac or Lake Banook.

How will Lock 3 be maintained?

Lock 3 has been a non-operational lock, therefore it will be maintained the same way as it has been.

The Canal Lock System

The Shubenacadie Canal, a network of nine locks built in the mid-1800s, once connected Halifax to the Bay of Fundy. This historic waterway was designed for transportation, not water level regulation.

The system as a whole was last operational in 1871.  At that point, the canal system, which included several locks like Lock 3, ceased functioning as a transportation route due to the increasing dominance of the railway system and a decline in commercial use.

Most of the locks have effectively been serving as dams since then. Since the system stopped operating, the locks have been restored and repaired at various times for historical and recreational value, which is their current purpose.

The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables is not considering making the lock system operational. It is not feasible. It could change the water levels in other water bodies and have negative impacts on ecosystems, private properties and public infrastructure. Additionally, it would not provide much relief from flooding.

Which organisations were involved?

The Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, Build Nova Scotia, the Office of L’Nu Affairs, the Shubenacadie Canal Commission.

Who to contact?

For General Questions: Shubenacadie Canal Commission (902) 462-1826

For Project-Specific Questions: Department of Natural Resources and Renewables Waverley office (902) 861-2560

Fundraiser to support SCC

Did you know that our work is volunteer-driven? As a non-profit organization, every dollar we receive in donations or funding turns into $3 of impact! We are thrilled to announce our kayak raffle fundraiser, and we invite you to join us in supporting the waterway.

Your ticket purchase will directly contribute to enhancing the sites, docks, and trails along our province-wide waterway. Together, we can make a significant difference!

Get your tickets today and support our mission: www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/kayak

Thank you for your continued support!

Scc Appoints NEW Executive Director

The Shubenacadie Canal Commission is pleased to announce Tanya Bouchard as its new Executive Director. With over 20 years of experience in the non-profit and government sectors, Ms. Bouchard brings valuable expertise and innovative leadership to the Commission.

Tanya previously served as Vice-President at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, where she was instrumental in establishing the museum's curatorial framework. Her work included leading teams, managing complex projects, and building strong relationships with stakeholders. Her commitment to inclusivity and accessibility aligns with the Commission’s mission to promote equity and diversity.

“I am excited to join the Shubenacadie Canal Commission,” said Tanya Bouchard. “My career has always been driven by a passion for historic preservation and the natural environment. I look forward to contributing to the preservation, education, and enjoyment of the Shubenacadie Canal.”

Tanya holds an Executive MBA and has extensive experience in organizational management, making her well-suited to manage the Canal’s assets and engage with various stakeholders. The Commission is confident that her leadership will enhance the Canal’s role in community engagement and heritage preservation.

Stay tuned for exciting developments as Tanya begins her new role.

Celebrating Claire's Impact at SCC

Last month marked the departure of Claire Halpern, the dedicated Executive Director of the Shubenacadie Canal Commission (SCC) for the past 5 years. Claire's leadership, marked by enthusiasm and innovation, has left an enduring impact all along the waterway community.

Under Claire's stewardship, we've witnessed increased park and waterway usage, flourishing partnerships, and the successful completion of important projects, all thanks to her adept leadership and grant-writing skills.

Yet, beyond her professional accomplishments, Claire's kindness has touched each member of our Commission. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Claire for her invaluable contributions and recognize her not only as a leader but also as a cherished friend and ally in our mission.

Here's to Claire and her remarkable legacy at SCC. Her influence will resonate long after her departure. Thank you, Claire!