Wetland Vulnerability in the Shubenacadie Watershed
A Study by MacCallum Engineering
In 2024, MacCallum Engineering completed a Wetland Vulnerability Study focused on the Shubenacadie Watershed to better understand which wetlands are most sensitive to environmental stress and to help communities and decision-makers protect what matters most.
Why Study Wetland Vulnerability?
Wetlands play an important role in:
- Filtering water
- Providing habitat for wildlife
- Reducing flooding
- Storing carbon
But not all wetlands face the same risks. This study looked at how things like development, land use changes, stormwater runoff, and climate pressures are impacting wetland health across the watershed.
A Tool for Planning & Protection
One of the big outcomes of the project was a new GIS-based tool. This help perform the following functions:
- Highlight which wetlands are most vulnerable
- Guide conservation efforts
- Support better land-use decisions
- Empower local governments and groups like SWEPS
This tool is now available to help plan projects, target restoration, and shape policy, all while making sure we’re protecting the wetlands that need it most.
What Did the Study Find?
- Wetlands across the watershed vary widely; some are remote and pristine, others are surrounded by development.
- Wetlands near disturbed or changing landscapes are more vulnerable.
- Local actions (like better stormwater control) can make a big difference.
What’s Next?
- The mapping tool can now be used by planners, conservation groups, and municipalities.
- Ongoing monitoring and updates will help track wetland health.
- There is potential for further studies to explore how wetland changes impact local communities and ecosystems.
