As summer heat hits Nova Scotia, the provincial government is taking steps to assist municipalities and residents in getting ready for inevitable drought conditions. The Department of Municipal Affairs has put out a tender for a year-long contract to provide emergency potable water, enabling municipalities with bottled water programs to access affordable and reliable water sources. The government has clarified it will not cover emergency bottled water expenses for municipalities facing drought this year.
A new water data portal has been launched, allowing public access to groundwater levels, water quality data, and precipitation amounts across the province. Municipal Affairs Minister John A. MacDonald emphasized the importance of planning and conservation for all Nova Scotians to address changing water resource dynamics, stating that drought is not a possibility but a certainty.
To support climate-adaptation projects focusing on water resilience, applications are open for the provincial sustainable communities challenge fund until July 23, offering $6.3 million for municipalities, non-profits, and Mi’kmaw communities. Projects eligible for funding include community wells, backup water systems, engineering studies, and regional water solutions like new pipelines. The fund aims to announce successful projects in the fall, with completion targeted by November 30, 2027.
Local leaders, including David Mitchell, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities, expressed gratitude for the provincial support and emphasized the need for preparedness as the upcoming season poses concerns. The Municipality of the District of Barrington is eyeing a groundbreaking land-based desalination system with Quebec’s Oneka Technologies to address water scarcity.
While the new data portal is beneficial, Barrington’s chief administrative officer, Chris Frotten, highlighted the need for further expansion and enhancement of the portal, especially for smaller municipalities lacking expertise in water resource management. The province is collaborating with municipal bodies to bolster community support and resource sharing.
In response to the ongoing drought challenges, the government is actively engaging with communities to enhance water resilience and preparedness through various initiatives and funding opportunities.