Environmental Home Assessment Program Making a Difference

Nova Scotia's free Environmental Home Assessment Program has helped more then 1,000 Nova Scotians safeguard the environment, protect the health of their family, and save money.

The program, now it its second year, has introduced Nova Scotians who rely on wells and septic systems, to the fundamentals of protecting them.

"We are thrilled with the success of this program so far," said Mark Parent, Minister of Environment and Labour. "Assessments are booking up fast and we plan on doing even more assessments in 2007-08."

A trained assessor will visit a home and provide a septic-system assessment, water-quality sampling kit, water-saving devices and information on how to properly maintain home oil tanks. Bebbington Industries also provides free samples of Nova Scotia's only eco-logic environmentally friendly septic cleaner to program participants.

Once the assessment is complete, participants who wish to have their home septic system pumped, will receive a rebate of $50 to be used by the end of fiscal year.

Depending on financial need and the state of the septic system, lower-income households may be eligible for a grant of up to $3,000 that will help cover the cost of necessary repairs. To date, 188 grants have been provided and more grants are available this year for those in need.

Education is also an important component of the Environmental Home Assessment Program. "The educational portion of the program offers simple and cost-effective tips to help Nova Scotians do their part to protect the environment," said Mr. Parent.

Environmental community groups are hired to deliver the assessments throughout the province. Groups include Clean Nova Scotia and Atlantic Coastal Action Program-Cape Breton.

There are still assessments available this year in Cape Breton, Pictou, Guysborough, Antigonish, Colchester and Cumberland counties. To participate in the Environmental Home Assessment Program, homeowners should contact 1-866-500-3427 to book assessments.

For more information on the program, see the Department of Environment and Labour website at www.gov.ns.ca/enla .