Habitat Restoration
SWEPS is dedicated to restoring and protecting the diverse habitats of the Shubenacadie Watershed through conservation projects, community engagement, and scientific monitoring.
Habitat
Protecting and Restoring Our Local Ecosystems
The Shubenacadie Watershed is home to diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, rivers, and lakes. These ecosystems provide clean water, support wildlife, and contribute to the overall health of our environment. At SWEPS, we are committed to restoring and protecting these vital habitats through conservation projects, community engagement, and scientific monitoring.
Stream Restoration (Adopt-A-Stream Program)
Healthy waterways are crucial to the Shubenacadie Watershed. Through the Adopt-A-Stream program, SWEPS works on:
Restoring fish passage by removing barriers.
Enhancing streambank stability to prevent erosion.
Planting native vegetation along riparian zones.
Improving habitat for aquatic species.
Wildlife and Biodiversity Protection
The Shubenacadie Watershed is home to numerous species, some of which are at risk due to habitat destruction and climate change. SWEPS actively supports biodiversity by:
Monitoring species at risk to track population changes and advocate for protection measures.
Promoting the use of iNaturalist for community-driven wildlife observations.
Supporting pollinator-friendly landscapes by planting native wildflowers and reducing pesticide use.
Consultant and Government Watershed Studies
Access our studies and reports performed by consultants and the various levels of government on our Shubenacadie Watershed. This includes the Wetland Compensation Study.
Latest Updates from the Field
Explore our most recent habitat restoration projects, from streambank stabilization to species monitoring, and see how we’re making a difference in the Shubenacadie Watershed.
First Trees Planted Along Aerotech Connection Trail
We had great weather for our first tree planting along the Aerotech Connection Trail, and thanks to help from Bob Guscott’s brothers and our dedicated SWEPS volunteers, the initial stock of shrubs and trees is now in the ground. More planting to come once we receive hundreds of smaller seedlings from NS Forests!
Trail Users Advised of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) Signage
New signs have been posted at trailheads in Lower Sackville and Windsor Junction to raise awareness about Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA). Trail users are encouraged to learn how to help prevent its spread.
Adopt a Stream 2024 Report
Over summer 2024, SWEPS completed in-stream restoration on Bennery and Black Brooks, including five new digger logs, bank stabilization, and debris removal. Following major 2023 flooding, restoration crews also assessed fish passage impacts at Laurie and Annand Brooks. The season improved over 800m of stream habitat and 750m² of riparian zone, with support from volunteers,…
