Go Wild, Be Responsible in Wilderness Areas

Nova Scotians can go wild and be responsible for their natural environment at the same time by visiting provincial wilderness areas.

Nova Scotia has 33 wilderness areas totaling 294,000 hectares from Polle'’s Cove-Aspy Fault in Cape Breton to Tobeatic in the southern end of the province. They are protected lands that Nova Scotians and visitors can use for research and recreation activities.

"A hike through one of our pristine wilderness areas is a great way to renew the spirit and celebrate the province's natural beauty," said Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash. "I encourage Nova Scotians to get out and enjoy these wild places safely and responsibly."

Wilderness areas are ideal locations for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, bird-watching, sport-fishing and hunting. Camping is allowed, but there are no facilities or campgrounds.

To protect nature and have a safe, enjoyable wilderness experience, visitors should follow guidelines outlined in A Guide for Low Impact Recreation in Nova Scotia's Wilderness Areas, available at www.gov.ns.ca/enla/envirowk .

The guide recommends being prepared with essentials like sturdy footwear, warm waterproof clothing, waterproof matches, a means of treating water for drinking, and a lightweight tarp for shelter in case of emergency. It also encourages visitors to leave no trace -- such as garbage or damage -- of their experience in the wilderness area.

Getting to a wilderness area can be challenging because they are unmarked and generally remote. The fifth edition of Nova Scotia Atlas shows all but the province's two newest wilderness areas -- Gully Lake and Eigg Mountain-James River.

The atlas and other maps are available through Service Nova Scotia's online map store at www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/land . The atlas is also available in many bookstores.

In addition, access routes can be found by talking to residents in the area.

Descriptions of the province's wilderness areas are available at www.gov.ns.ca/enla/pareas .

Visiting a wilderness area is a great way to celebrate Environment Week from June 5 to 11.