Province Moves to Expand Gas Exploration

Nova Scotia is moving to expand the area open for coal gas exploration activity in Pictou County. The area to be opened includes part of the former Westray mine coal leases. However, Gordon Balser, the Minister responsible for the Petroleum Directorate, stressed that it does not include the mine workings where 26 miners lost their lives eight years ago.

The minister met with representatives of the Westray families in New Glasgow on Wednesday, April 19, to discuss the establishment of a 240-acre exclusion zone. The zone would ban any activity in this area, part of the 2,840 acres comprising the site of the former Westray mine lease.

"I wanted to reassure them that this area is considered sacred ground," said Mr. Balser. "An exclusion zone has been established that not only includes the surface area, but all lands below the surface.

Mr. Balser said it was important to meet with members of the Westray families first to explain these plans. He also stressed the importance of ongoing communication with the family members as the process of opening these lands moves ahead.

"I wanted to personally assure them that we are not going to allow any coal gas exploration activity in this area, and that they would be kept informed of activities on an ongoing basis," said Mr. Balser.

Coal gas exploration activity began in Pictou County in the late 1970s. Preliminary development activities have been ongoing for the past six years and include the drilling of three wells in the Stellarton area. Further exploration in this area could potentially make it more attractive to future gas development projects.

"The arrival of natural gas in Nova Scotia from the offshore has made people more aware of our opportunities onshore", said the minister. "Preliminary exploration and development work on coal gas has been going on in this area for several years, and we believe expanding the area for exploration activity enhances the opportunity for the possibility of future gas development in Pictou County."

NOTE: A copy of the map showing the 240-acre exclusion zone is available; please e-mail [email protected] for a copy.