The Province announced yesterday afternoon that due to very dry conditions, wooded areas of Nova Scotia would be closed effective 4pm yesterday. No hiking, no camping in the woods, or use of vehicles or trail systems through the woods are permitted. Restrictions apply to both PRIVATE and PROVINCIAL CROWN LAND. Permits can be obtained for work.

This is another layer of protection on top of the burn ban. Any violations of the mentioned protection layers can result in a $25,000 fine. RCMP and DNRR can issue these charges. There will be ZERO TOLERANCE for those who disobey the restrictions.

Camping remains permitted at official campgrounds.

According to the province we need at least a week of non-stop rain until these bans are lifted.

The towns of Stellarton, New Glasgow, Trenton, and Pictou have closed their wooded trails to the public at this time. 

 

Stellarton has moved to Stage Three of its water contingency plan—meaning all outdoor water use is now banned. Residents are prohibited from using town water for anything other than essential domestic or commercial purposes. The order will stay in effect until East River water levels return to normal. The town’s splash pad is closed, and maintenance crews are using an alternative water source. More details are available at stellarton.ca.

 

The Province of Nova Scotia is officially ending its relationship with the Nova Scotia Firefighters School, following what it called “appalling” findings from a recent government review. The school, which has trained firefighters for decades, was found to have major safety failures, poor oversight, and a breakdown in leadership. The move comes nearly six years after the death of Truro firefighter Skyler Blackie, who was killed during a training exam in 2019 when an expired fire extinguisher exploded. His family, along with firefighter associations, had been pushing for reform. The province says this decision marks a step toward building a safer and more accountable training model for firefighters.

 

the newly formed Nova Scotia Independent Energy System Operator has submitted its first funding application to the provincial Energy Board, seeking $5.3 million to support operations through March 2026. The non-profit NSIESO, set to take over planning and operation of the province’s electricity grid, says the funds will help build its team, tools, and structure. Board Chair Douglas Reid says the organization aims to deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable power. The funding request includes startup costs, IT, and procurement planning, with no immediate impact on ratepayers. A permanent CEO is expected to be named soon. The NSIESO is a newly created, independent, non-profit organization responsible for overseeing the province’s electricity system. It was established as part of the More Access to Energy Act, enacted in early 2024, to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in Nova Scotia’s energy sector.